These Are the Cleaning Products Professional Cleaners Actually Prefer

As some of us have learned the hard way, not all cleaning products are created equal. Some are too harsh, some aren't harsh enough, some leave a streaky residue, and some leave an unpleasant smell that just isn't worth the clean. No matter what the issue is, we're tired of wasting money on shiny new cleaning products that over-promise and under-deliver. So, we consulted professional cleaners for some expert advice. Since they have an edge on knowing what actually works (and what really doesn't) we asked for their recommendations for the best cleaning products for every room and area of the home.

All-around the house cleaning

Many savvy consumers are becoming more and more concerned with cleaning products that are safer for the environment. And when we asked Diana Rodriguez-Zaba, president of Chicago-based ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba for her go-to cleaners, she preferred one that was more eco-friendly. “Simple Green All Purpose Cleaner is a product I recommend to customers who are looking for an effective cleaner that's also better for the environment," she says. “The all-purpose cleaner does a great job cleaning just about everything—and it also comes in a few different scents. I also like that they have cleaning wipes.”

Laura Avila, a cleaning guru and creator of the cleaning website Cleaning Fan, says she loves using microfiber cloths. “These little guys are seriously versatile and have become a staple in my cleaning arsenal,” she says. “I use them for everything, from wiping down surfaces to dusting and cleaning mirrors and windows. Plus, they're reusable and environmentally friendly—what's not to love?”

Another use-it-everywhere item is Avila's all-time favorite cleaning product: the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. “It's a versatile product that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including walls, baseboards, and even appliances,” she explains. “It's especially great for removing scuff marks and tough stains.”

Dish and hand soaps

Rodriguez-Zaba prefers the Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day brand which are budget-friendly, cruelty free, and have recyclable packaging. “I personally use them for my hand soaps and dish soaps,” she adds. "They smell great.”  While we're at the kitchen sink, Rodriguez-Zaba also recommends the Twist scrub sponges—which are plant-based and sustainably made—for cleaning dishes. “Pair one with Mrs. Meyers's dish soap for an effective, eco-friendly clean,” she adds.

Ovens

If you need to deep clean your oven, Rodriguez-Zaba recommends Easy-Off. “This product effectively removes stuck-on residue,” she says.

Start by spraying the inside top of the oven, she says, then spray the sides and bottom. Let sit for 10-15 minutes. “Afterwards, wipe the oven clean with a damp sponge, and lastly, wipe any damp spots with a dry microfiber cloth,” Rodriguez-Zaba explains.

Other kitchen appliances

When it comes to stainless steel appliances, Karina Toner, a manager with Spekless Cleaning in the Washington, DC area, says that Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish is a great product. “It does an excellent job of getting rid of smudges and streaks while leaving a protective layer to prevent future fingerprints,” Toner says. “It's easy to use, and I appreciate that it's formulated specifically for stainless steel surfaces.”

Kitchen surfaces and cabinetry

Toner says that this longstanding classic, Murphy's Oil Soap, should definitely be in your cleaning caddy. “It's a wood cleaner that's been around for over a century, and it's still just as effective as ever,” she says. “We use it on wood floors, cabinets, and even furniture. The best part is that it's gentle enough to use on most wood surfaces without causing any damage.”

Toilets

Lauren Doss, a cleaning guru and owner of Nashville Maids, says her go-to pick for cleaning toilets is Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach. “This powerful cleaner and disinfectant gets tough stains out of the toilet bowl quickly and effectively,” she says. “It also kills 99.9 percent of germs, making it a great choice for keeping toilets clean and sanitary.”

Countertops

Doss is also a fan of Method All-Purpose Natural Surface Cleaner. “This powerful cleaner works great on countertops, appliances and other hard surfaces,” she says. ”It's formulated with naturally derived ingredients and is non-toxic, biodegradable and free of harsh chemicals.”

Laundry

For laundering, Doss opts for Tide Pods Plus Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent. She says these convenient detergent capsules are the perfect way to get tough stains out of your clothes while leaving them smelling fresh and clean. “They contain three-in-one technology that cleans, brightens and fights odors,” Doss adds.

Floors

To tackle floors, Doss reaches for Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner. This hardwood floor cleaner is specifically designed to be safe for use on all types of wood floors, including laminate, engineered hardwood, and more, Doss says. “Its non-toxic formula won't dull or damage the finish of your floors, and it has a pleasant citrus scent. It can be used on both sealed and unfinished wood for easy cleaning,” she explains.

Natural cleaning alternatives

For versatility in your cleaning routine, reach for white vinegar, says Avila. “This is one of my favorite natural cleaners,” shares Avila. “It's great for tackling tough stains and deodorizing surfaces around the home, like countertops, floors, and bathrooms. I always have a bottle on hand.”

You can also get rid of gunk by using a simple mixture of baking soda and water, says Avila. “It can be used to clean grime and buildup on the bottom of your oven,” she says. It can also be used to clean up counter stains and bathroom vanities. 

Another natural cleaner can be found among your produce. Since lemons are antibacterial and acidic, you can use lemon juice to clean and deodorize cutting boards, Avila says.