To get your windows really clean, resist the temptation to buy a multisurface window cleaner and stick to an ammonia-based product specifically designed for glass.

Powder cleanser with bleach

Opt for this when you have a tough situation, like food that has cooked onto your stove top. Wet the surface to be cleaned, sprinkle on the powder, wait a minute, then rub.

All-purpose cleaning spray

Tackle everyday kitchen cleaning with an all-purpose cleaning spray like Formula 409 or Fantastik. Choose one without bleach to avoid accidentally ruining clothing.

Liquid all-purpose cleaner

A disinfecting all-purpose cleaner like Pine-Sol or Ajax is the best solution for mopping the kitchen floor and eliminating germs.

Rubber gloves

Protect your hands from caustic solutions while cleaning. Opt for inexpensive gloves that you won’t mind tossing after an unpleasant household task like cleaning the toilet bowl.

Oil soap

If you have finished hardwood floors, polish them safely with a gentle vegetable-oil cleaner like Murphy Oil Soap.

Ammonia

Reach for this old-fashioned favorite to clean everything from built-up floor wax to daily dirt. When in doubt about what cleaner to use, a weak solution of ammonia and water is always a good first choice.

Bleach

A powerful disinfectant and whitener, bleach should be used with caution, but it’s a handy tool for a variety of tasks, like sanitizing cutting boards and cleaning grout.

Caddy

For maximum efficiency, don’t shove your cleaning products under the sink in a jumble. Get yourself a caddy that is big enough to organize, tote and store all of your supplies. It should have a comfortable, nonslip handle so you can easily carry the container as you move from room to room, cleaning up.

Sponges, scouring sponges and microfiber cloths

Select a variety of sponges and cloths for dusting, polishing, scrubbing and shining. Keep these products separate from the ones you use to scrub your dishes!