You’re probably making some — or many — of the home-related mistakes on this list. In fact, they’re quite common (dusty baseboards, we’re looking at you). While they’re probably making your spaces (both indoors and out) pretty gross, the good news is that there are simple and low-cost ways to fix them using Amazon products. Scroll on if you’re ready to stop the ick.
Failing to routinely clean your dishwasher
Freshero Dishwasher Cleaner and Deodorizer Tablets 26-Pack, Deep Cleaning Descaler for Dishwasher Machine, Heavy Duty, Septic Safe, Removes Grease & Build-ups, 1 Year of Cleaning Supplies (No Scent)
Amazon -Dishwashers clean your dishes for you — but the appliance itself should also be cleaned to keep it in top working order. These cleaning tablets are the simplest way to go about this; one tablet eliminates hard water deposits, limescale buildup, grease, and other gross stuff. For less than $20, this pick will last an entire year.
Placing the toilet plunger right on the bathroom floor
Placing your toilet plunger on the floor of your bathroom is majorly unsanitary. This universal tray is the ideal spot for it — it’s made from durable plastic with a special design that allows for maximum airflow. This prevents mold from growing.
Skipping ceiling fan cleaning because it’s too hard to reach
You don’t need to bust out the ladder to clean your ceiling fan blades; this extendable duster reaches up to 10 feet to get the job done while you stand on the ground. The cleaning head is bendable to wipe down all areas of the fixture, and the head cover is washable after use.
Letting flying bugs take over
Get mosquitoes, fruit flies, moths, and other annoying pests under control with these indoor traps that utilize a UV light to attract them and a glue board to trap them (hidden from view, of course). “This product is the only thing that actually works to catch bugs in the house,” confirmed one fan who has used it for years. Plug the trap into any standard outlet to use it. Your order comes with two traps and eight glue boards.
Not securing your trash bag in the can
When your trash bag slips down inside the can, it’s bound to make a big mess — particularly when there are liquids involved. These three trash can bands are designed to secure the bag in place. They fit on most trash cans (up to 33-gallon capacity ones), and the metal joints ensure they don’t snap.
Tracking dirt & debris in on the bottom of your shoes
Remove mud, sand, dirt, snow, grass, and other gross stuff from the bottom of your shoes before you come inside thanks to this scraper brush. It has a metal frame for sturdiness, and it mounts in place using the included hardware.
Accidentally leaving gunk by using a too-large cleaning tool
EVERSPROUT Grout Cleaning Brush Scrubber, Stiff V-Shaped Scrub Bristles Built for Corners & Tough Grime, Swivel Scrub Brush & Grout Cleaner for Shower, Bathroom, Tile, Floor, Attachment Cleaner Only
Amazon -Tricky corners, tight grooves, and other nooks and crannies can be easily reached with this cleaning brush. It’s narrow by design with stiff bristles for a thorough clean. “I used this brush to scrub the grout, and it looked new again. The angled bristles really allow it to get in the grooves,” remarked one shopper.
Allowing grime to build up in your microwave
The more grime that you let build up in your microwave, the trickier it’ll be to remove down the line. Luckily, this steam cleaner makes cleaning the interior of your appliance simpler. Fill it with water and vinegar, then place it inside to loosen any grime and stuck-on food, sanitizing and majoring cutting down on the need for scrubbing.
Not tackling stains on bathroom surfaces right away
Don’t let stains (from rust, hard water, limescale, etc.) sit on your bathroom surfaces. They’ll be far more difficult to get off later on. This pumice stone can be used on surfaces like sinks, tile, toilet bowls, and more. It’s gentle yet powerful.
Letting spoiled food odors take over your fridge
This stainless steel odor eliminator utilizes no power source or filters, yet it effectively eliminates spoiled food stench in your fridge or pantry for up to 10 years straight. It’s so compact that you’ll likely forget it’s even there.
Half-heartedly scrubbing your shower & tub instead of going electric
StarVal Electric Spin Scrubber, Cordless Cleaning Brush Shower Scrubber Up to 550 RPM with 9 Replaceable Brush Heads, Bathroom Scrubber Adjustable Extension Handle for Bathroom Kitchen Car (Yellow)
Amazon -Hate to break it to you, but manually scrubbing your shower, bathtub, and other similar surfaces will give you nowhere near the results as this electric scrubber. It boasts an extendable handle, nine multiuse brush heads, and a cordless design, running up to four hours straight per charge.
Letting smells linger in your garbage disposal
True Fresh Garbage Disposal Cleaner Powder Drop-in Sink Packets 24-Pack – Deep Cleaning & Descaling for Kitchen Sinks, Removes Odor-Causing Residue, Septic Safe, Easy-to-Use Formula
Amazon -Food waste, grease, soap scum, and other gross stuff can get stuck (and ultimately build up) in your garbage disposal. However, these 24 cleaning packets break down these things, ensuring that the disposal runs better. The cleaning packet is compatible with all major garbage disposal brands.
Allowing smells to fester in your trash can
Eliminate foul smells with this trash can deodorizer. Using activated charcoal bags, the device actually absorbs odors and moisture (rather than masking them with a strong fragrance). It sticks securely in place on the can’s lid.
Leaving pet hair on furniture & other surfaces
Get rid of the clumps of pet hair on surfaces like drapes, couches, carpet, and more (and even your clothes) using this best-selling remover. Roll it back and forth to trap the hair in the receptacle for dumping into the trash later on. It uses no adhesive or power source — the tool is completely reusable.
Failing to clean underneath furniture or appliances
Tight spots like underneath furniture or your appliances may seem almost impossible to clean. Luckily, this nearly flat cleaning tool can reach these areas. It has a microfiber cloth head (that’s machine washable and reusable) with an extendable pole that goes up to 55 inches.
Neglecting to get ahead of gross buildup in your toilet
Sure, you could spend a bunch of time every week scrubbing away at your toilet. Or, you could simplify this to-do list task — these cleaning gels stick inside the bowl, releasing a nice-smelling gel cleaner to reduce stains, rings, and residue with every flush. Each of the 32 stamps lasts up to two weeks.
Forgetting to clean the jets in your showerhead
All of those itty-bitty holes in your showerhead should be cleaned regularly to keep them in top working condition and free of nasty buildup. These cleaning picks are the best way to approach this — the conical shape and overall small size (though there are a few sizes included) mean they can reach these small areas with ease. Twenty tools in several styles come in the pack.
Thinking stubborn & unsightly carpet stains can’t be removed
Think the stains on your carpet are a lost cause? Think again. This heavy-duty cleaner lifts old stubborn stains (from pets, food spills, and more), then leaves behind a light minty scent. It’s formulated with essential oils — it’s pet-safe.
Letting gross bathroom odors linger
The gross reality is that bathroom-related odors spread through the space if not contained. However, this toilet spray traps these beneath the water’s surface so they don’t enter the air. Plus, the coconut, freesia, and citrus scent is one you actually want to smell.
Allowing mold to grow on your washing machine & beyond
Washing machines are notorious for growing mold. Luckily, this gel cleaner can remove mold, stains, and grime without any scrubbing — apply an even layer on the area in question, let it sit for five-plus hours, and then wipe it clean. In addition to your washing machine, it can be used on bathtubs, grout, fridge seals, and more.
Neglecting to shield your under-sink area from drips & spills
Catch rogue sink drips and cleaning supply spills with this under-sink mat. It’s made from thick silicone that’s waterproof — this allows you to wipe up these messes quickly. It comes in many sizes and colors to fit your space.
Pouring honey & syrup from a drippy, messy container
The original container your honey or syrup came in likely drips all over the place. This glass dispenser — which has a fun honeycomb design — has a well-designed dispenser head that drizzles syrups smoothly and without messy drips. It holds up to eight ounces.
Leaving your toothbrush out in your bathroom
Don’t let your toothbrush get exposed to bathroom grossness: For just $5, these brush covers shield the surface from dust, hair, germs, and whatever else is flying around (while still allowing the brush to dry out post-use). Three shields come in the set.
Failing to clean mesh screens on doors & windows
Pulling out a mesh door or window screen to clean it sometimes feels more troublesome than it's worth. However, this cleaning tool has extra-long fibers to reach into the mesh to get the job done while it's still hanging. It can be used as a handheld brush or with the detachable 13-inch handle.
Allowing oil to land on nearby surfaces while cooking
Position this stainless steel splatter guard over cookware (it fits on most pots, pans, and skillets) to stop oil from spitting all over your counters, cabinets, walls, and even your body. “Sturdy build and does a good job confining splatters. Dishwasher safe,” shares one shopper.
Letting your front-loading washing machine get musty
Front-loading washing machines should be kept open when not in use via this magnetic door prop. This allows air to flow inside, keeping it fresh, dry, and mold-free. The magnetic base allows it to attach securely to your washer, and it boasts a flexible neck to work with any brand appliance.
Forgetting to routinely clean your baseboards
Baseboards are one spot you likely forget to clean, but should — and regularly at that. This cleaning tool has an extendable handle (that reaches up to 56 inches) so you can tackle the job without hurting your back. There are various cleaning heads and cloths included; use them on ceiling fixtures, too.
Failing to shield your counters from pooling water
Don’t let water pool on your counters: This drip catcher wraps around the faucet, absorbing any liquid that ends up on its surface. It has a silicone underside that’s completely nonslip to stay put. For only $10, it’ll save you a major headache.
Allowing hair to sneak in your shower drain
Hair and other debris can quickly clog your shower drain, which is a costly problem that can be pretty gross when it backs up. Luckily, this drain protector that fits inside the drain will collect these nuisances to stop this. Once full, pull it out and wipe it clean before reusing it.
Buying rugs that can’t be easily cleaned
Lahome Insect Washable Rug, 2x3 Kitchen Rugs for Entryway Bathroom, Soft Door Mat Indoor Entrance Ultra-Thin, Small Non-Slip Throw Carpet for Bedroom Entry, Dark Green
Amazon -Rugs get dirty — fast. So that means it’s important to buy ones that can be cleaned easily. This washable rug — which actually fits inside a washing machine for cleaning — meets that criteria. It has a low-pile design, soft feel, and nonslip backing. It comes in several colors and sizes in the listing (including a runner).
Failing to keep your oven free of burnt-on food
Don’t let food spills and drips sit in the bottom of your oven (and get even grosser over time): These oven liners catch these, and they can be pulled out and stuck in the dishwasher for easier cleaning. They’re heat resistant, dishwasher safe, and slide in place. Two come in the set, and they can be trimmed to fit in toaster ovens, microwaves, and more.
Cooking meals on a gunky grill
No one wants food cooked on a gunky, gross-looking grill. This brush and scraper combo boasts a unique no-bristle design that’ll remove stuck-on food from the grates with minimal work. The reinforced handle is sturdy and comfortable to maneuver.
Letting crumbs collect beside your stove
All of those food crumbs that sneak between your counters and stovetop are just sitting there for who knows how long. These two silicone covers eliminate this gap so you don’t have to worry about that. The covers are heat resistant and naturally nonslip. They come in a few colors and lengths — and they can be trimmed for a perfect fit.
Shaving without containing the hairs
Keep your sink and counters clean as you shave with this bib apron that suctions onto the mirror. “It’s easy to set up with the suction cups on the mirror, and it catches all the trimmed hair so nothing ends up in the sink or on the counter,” shared one shopper.
Not controlling humidity in small enclosed spaces
Goodbye, humidity: This miniature dehumidifier utilizes silica gel beads to remove excess moisture from the air, creating a more comfortable environment. It’s rechargeable (lasting four weeks), compact in size, and drip-free.
Skipping descaling the coffee maker, kettle & more
Appliances like your coffee machine and kettle should be regularly descaled so they function well. This highly rated professional-grade cleaner will do the trick, removing limescale and calcium buildup. It works quicker than vinegar, yet is still gentle enough not to cause damage.
Letting your cat track litter throughout your home
Litter boxes are inevitably stinky but that doesn’t mean you should allow the litter to get spread through your home. This rubber mat has a double-layered, honeycomb design to capture the litter and let it fall through to the bottom area for dumping later on. It’s waterproof and slip resistant.
Not dusting your computer keyboard
Compressed Air Duster,3 Gear Adjustable 100000RPM Electric Air Duster, Rechargeable Cordless Air Blower with LED Light for Computer Keyboard Electric Devices Cleaning. Replaces Compressed Air Cans
Amazon -One area in your home or office you may forget to clean? Your computer keyboard, which harbors more dust and crumbs on and in it than you can imagine. This compressed air duster is a powerful way to remove dust — it has a high-speed motor, various airflow settings, multiple heads, and a rechargeable design.
Failing to protect your couch cushions against stains
Enjoying a late-night snack on the couch is bound to lead to some spills. But these couch cushion covers provide a layer of protection for the surface — they’re 100% waterproof — and can easily be removed and washed if needed. They also help cover existing stains, and they’re stretchy to fit most couch cushions securely. The three-piece set comes in tons of colors and other furniture style options in the listing.
Neglecting to shield surfaces against potential damage & splatters
Areas like your countertops, backsplash tiles, drawer fronts, and more could all benefit from a layer of protection thanks to this clear contact paper. It has an adhesive design for simple hanging, and once in place, it’s completely waterproof and scratch resistant.
Missing the pet urine that’s hidden in carpet & fabrics
Run this UV flashlight along carpet, clothes, furniture, and other fabric surfaces to detect pet urine stains that you couldn’t otherwise see with the naked eye. This way, you can get rid of them and the smell that comes along with them.
Having grime build up in your window tracks
Don’t forget to clean your window tracks — otherwise, grime will build up fast. These two cleaning brushes have durable, stiff bristles and a narrow shape to reach into window and door tracks for a quick scrub down. The ergonomic handles are comfortable to maneuver.
Keeping gaps around your toilet & tub exposed
Gaps around areas like your toilet, sink, or tub should be closed up to prevent mold from growing. This caulk trim sticks in place using its self-adhesive backing, and it provides professional-looking results. “Went on easily and looks great. Its been in place for 9 months and still looks like new,” confirmed one shopper. Your order comes with two 10-foot-long rolls.
Letting mold permanently stain surfaces
Mold and mildew can stain surfaces faster than you know. Luckily, this remover spray lifts staining and odors from decks, drywall, flooring, and other areas that may have it — indoors or out. You don’t even need to scrub for it to work.
Utilizing the wrong equipment to mop your floors
These mop pads feature extra-thick microfibers that are superior at trapping dirt, dust, and pet hair to actually get your floors clean. Use the pads wet or dry, then toss them into the washing machine before reusing them over again. Two pads come in the set.
