When it comes to cleaning, opting for the cheapest options might seem logical since they’ll eventually get dirty and need replacing. However, this short-sighted strategy often results in ineffective cleaning performance and frequent replacements, which can cost more than investing in pricier, higher-quality products from the start.
Professional cleaners share their top picks for must-have cleaning tools that are worth buying once and buying well, emphasizing that skimping can lead to less efficient and effective cleaning.
Quality Cleaning Tools That Are Worth the Price
1. Vacuum Cleaners
Jade Piper, operations manager at BetterCleans, stresses the importance of investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner. She notes, “I’ve experienced many budget vacuums that start off strong but quickly lose suction power. Opt for one with robust suction and a good filtration system, like HEPA, especially if you have pets or kids.”
“To maintain its performance, I always clean my vacuum and ensure the canister is emptied or the bag is replaced when it’s about three-quarters full. Regularly cleaning the filters is crucial for longevity!”
Discover more insights from our home tech expert and vacuum tester, Dan Fauzi, in our guide on choosing the right vacuum cleaner. Some of the top robot vacuum cleaners, such as the eufy Omni S1 Pro, significantly reduced our canister vacuum usage by 90%.
Best for pet hair
Dyson V15 Detect
This vacuum excels at removing pet hair, boasting outstanding performance with an innovative green laser that highlights hidden particles and a user-friendly design.
Best corded
Shark POWERDETECT
If you need a corded vacuum with dependable suction, the Shark POWERDETECT is unmatched across all floor types, featuring automatic suction adjustment.
Best multisurface
Shark Cordless PowerDetect
This model combines two brushrolls, eliminating the need to switch heads while transitioning between floors. Its flexible wand simplifies cleaning under furniture, while sensors adapt suction power automatically.
2. Steam Cleaners
Bryan Griffin, founder of Patriot Maids Cleaning Service, highlights the value of steam cleaners and steam mops, stating, “These tools are crucial for deep cleaning without chemicals. A high-quality steam cleaner effectively sanitizes surfaces using just heat and water, making it ideal for households with children, pets, or allergy sufferers.”
We fully agree—personally, I utilize a steam cleaner throughout my home, particularly for deep cleaning my kitchen, including chemical-free oven cleaning.
It’s a non-toxic essential that I can’t live without.
Our favorite: Black+Decker 7-in-1 Steam-Mop
I swear by my Black & Decker steam mop for thorough sanitization. It includes attachments for cleaning carpets, hard floors, tiles, grout, upholstery, and clothing, plus a steaming mitt for easy surface sanitization.
3. Washing Machines
Investing in the right washing machine is crucial. Forrest Webber, owner of Bear Brothers Cleaning, emphasizes, “A heavy-duty washing machine can handle larger loads, efficiently remove stains, and outlast cheaper models. There’s nothing worse than a new washer breaking down.”
Bryan Griffin notes that they can also help save on laundry costs over time. “These larger machines pay off by reducing your water and energy bills. Look for high energy star ratings and diverse wash settings for various fabrics and soil levels.”
The Beko WFTV10733XC Washing Machine, available at AJ Madison, was recognized for its energy efficiency and is Energy Star certified to save you money.
Choosing a higher-end model enhances your home’s comfort, especially in smaller spaces or open-plan designs, as they tend to operate more quietly.
Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved, mentioned, “I lived in a large Victorian home where the noise from the washing machine was a constant disturbance in the living room. Upgrading to a quieter washer was worth every penny.”
4. A Quality Duster
A common dusting error is using a poor-quality duster, which merely relocates dust instead of eliminating it. Lilja Gudmundsdottir, an expert cleaner and owner of Lilja’s Cleaning Service, states, “A good duster is essential. I recommend the Bona duster [available at Walmart] – it’s innovative, efficient, and washable, which is great for your wallet and the planet.”
We also love the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster, designed to pick up dust from flat surfaces like tables and cleaning blinds without spreading it around. Simply rinse it under running water to clean.
Easy to clean
Scrub Daddy Damp Duster
The Damp Duster is perfect for allergy sufferers, effectively removing dust, pet hair, and pollen. It's affordable, reusable, compact, and easy to clean—just rinse it off under running water.
5. A Motorized Scrubber
While traditional sponges have their place, Vanessa Bossart, cleaning expert and owner of GreenTerra Cleaning, suggests investing in a motorized scrubber for long-term savings. “These tools are amazing for tackling tough grime on tiles, cleaning bathtubs, and cleaning floors. They do the work for you, making it easier to eliminate soap scum and clean grout without much effort.”
“A cordless power scrubber like the Rubbermaid Reveal, from Walmart, can expedite the process while yielding better results.”
Eight brush heads
Ykyi Electric Spin Scrubber
This extendable power scrubber allows you to clean floors and high-tiled walls without the hassle of crawling or climbing on ladders.
6. A Pressure Washer
Jade Piper emphasizes, “If maintaining your outdoor areas is a priority, whether it’s cleaning your driveway, deck, or even your car, investing in a quality pressure washer is essential. Budget models may offer insufficient water pressure and can break down after a few uses. Choose one with high PSI and various spray settings to tackle larger cleaning tasks effectively.”
Given the range of surfaces a pressure washer can clean, it’s a worthwhile investment.
More than 2500 5-star ratings
RYOBI 1800 PSI Corded Electric Pressure Washer
This electric model is perfect for light-duty tasks, including cleaning patio furniture, grills, windows, bikes, boats, campers, decks, and more.
High-quality cleaning tools will remain effective only if you maintain your cleaning supplies. Regular upkeep ensures your tools withstand frequent use, delivering excellent cleaning results each time.
