Most homes have far more cleaning products than they need. A few versatile basics can handle nearly everything.
Cutting down saves money, packaging, and cupboard space.
A basic kit
- A general-purpose cleaner or diluted washing-up liquid
- White vinegar for limescale and glass (not on stone or wood)
- Bicarbonate of soda for scrubbing
- Microfibre or cotton cloths
- A good scrubbing brush
Safety first
Never mix products, especially bleach with vinegar or ammonia, which can release dangerous gases. Natural does not always mean safe, so store all cleaners out of reach of children and pets.
Refill and concentrate
Buy refills or concentrates to reduce packaging, and reuse spray bottles. Many refill shops sell cleaning products by weight.
Clean little and often
Wiping surfaces regularly prevents build-up that needs harsher chemicals. Ventilating the bathroom reduces mould, and a squeegee on shower glass saves scrubbing later.
This is general sustainability information. Recycling, composting, and disposal rules vary by municipality — check local guidance. Cost and energy savings are estimates and depend on your home and usage.