The time we spend cleaning our homes isn’t already the best part of our days, but on top of that, the products can be expensive, depending on our habits. And who wants to spend hard-earned money on cleaning supplies when we can use it to buy more enjoyable stuff? Not me! In this article, I’ll show you my solutions for budget cleaning and a neat home!
Swap disposable for reusable
At first glance, disposable items seem cheaper, but the costs can really add up over time. Every time you repurchase paper towels or single-use wipes, it’s like you’re throwing money away! One simple and effective swap is to start using microfiber cloths. Not only are they durable and reusable, but they’re also excellent for trapping dirt and dust without needing harsh chemicals.
Here’s a second tip to make the transition easier on your wallet: switch to reusable products only when you’ve finished the disposable items you already have. That way, you will avoid spending too much at once, and you won’t feel like you’re breaking the bank.
Keep it simple
Unlike what ads want us to believe, you don’t need a different product for every surface or every mess, and multi-purpose cleaners can save you both money and space. Before buying specific products for each area of your home, look at what you already have and could use instead. For example, besides the dishes, I use dish soap to clean the stovetop daily or to freshen the counters. I also find it the most effective product for cleaning the tiled backsplash around the stovetop.
Another way to keep things simpler is by using those cleaning basics you may already have. I think of baking soda, vinegar, and plain liquid soap, like Castile soap. You can tackle various cleaning tasks with them, from using baking soda as a scrubbing paste for sinks and bathtubs (but please be careful if they are made of natural stone!) to cleaning your floors with soapy water. These inexpensive products are powerful enough to keep your home spotless without needing a complicated lineup of pricey cleaners.
Buy in bulk or bigger containers
One of the easiest ways to save money on cleaning supplies is to buy in bulk. You’ll usually pay less for the same quantity, which means more cleaning power for the same amount of money! One of the downsides of bulk items is that they can be heavy and sometimes impractical to use directly. But don’t let that stop you from saving money! You can decant your cleaning products into smaller, more manageable containers that you can quickly grab when needed. Remember to label them, as nothing looks more like a cleaning product than another, and some errors could damage delicate materials.
Another worry about bulk supplies is how to keep them effective, but as long as you store them in a cool, dry place and away from direct light, your bases are covered! Be sure to use tightly sealed containers to prevent evaporation and keep liquids longer.
Keep your cleaning budget friendly by mesuring the quantity you use
It’s easy to assume that more product means better results, but that’s not always true. Overusing cleaning products can even be both expensive and counterproductive, as using too much can lead to product buildup, making things worse instead of better.
Take bath towels, for example. If your freshly washed towels still smell bad, your first move might be to rewash them with even more laundry detergent. But if the problem is detergent buildup, the more you add, the worse the issue will be. Instead, wash them with hot water and vinegar only, then be mindful of using the correct amount of laundry powder.
To avoid overuse, always check the instructions on the packaging. Depending on the hardness of your water, you might need to adjust the amount slightly, but the recommended dosage will often be appropriate and save you money in the long run.
DIY your cleaning products
Making your own cleaning products is a great way to save money. By using simpler, more cost-effective ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and plain soap, you can create efficient cleaning solutions and limit paying for brand names or fancy packaging.
When you DIY, you also have complete control over what goes into your products, helping you avoid harsh chemicals and creating a healthier environment for your home and family.
Save money with these budget cleaning ideas!
With these few simple steps, you can keep your home clean without spending too much. Swapping disposable items for reusable ones, simplifying your cleaning products shelf, buying in bulk, using the right amount of product, or creating your own DIY cleaners will save you money without taking too much of your limited time. With a bit of creativity and mindful choices, cleaning on a budget can be both easy and effective!
Is your time as limited as your budget? I have a solution for you when you only have 20 minutes before your friends arrive at your doorstep! Have a look at my cleaning checklist to know what to do and avoid running frantically to make your home inviting!
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