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Tip Store: Cleaning: Cleaning Products
Making More Vinegar
If you have used some of your vinegar, you can add boiling water to exactly the same amount which is left in the container. Let it sit for two weeks before using.
Sandra McEachern
Sandra McEachern
Borax Sales
Apparently supermarkets are taking borax off the shelves. The authorities are registering it as a poison because some people take it internally for boron deficiency. So the supermarkets do not want to sell it. Oh what to do when making our washing powder. Well Bunnings will stock the borax in-store for us. So my panic is over and yours too if you need it. Why people wish to take this product as a supplement is beyond me. But supermarket management cite this as the reason from its recall from the shelves.
- Contributed by Linda Swift
- Contributed by Linda Swift
To Use Less Detergent and Shampoo
Approximate $ Savings: $100
Pouring shampoo and detergent out of the store bought bottle usually uses too much. Save several empty hand wash pump bottles. Fill one with detergent and another with shampoo. Washing dishes only takes one or two pumps, while shampooing hair is then measured. No more using too much.
- Contributed by Norma Thornton
Pouring shampoo and detergent out of the store bought bottle usually uses too much. Save several empty hand wash pump bottles. Fill one with detergent and another with shampoo. Washing dishes only takes one or two pumps, while shampooing hair is then measured. No more using too much.
- Contributed by Norma Thornton
Microfibre Miracles
I love microfibre cloths - even a cheap pack of 10 for $5 will last forever. Use them as dishcloths (brilliant on Teflon products), washing the car (use only water in a bucket - no suds, unless the car is filthy), cleans the windows without the need for Windex etc. Cleans mirrors beautifully - no streaking as there are no chemicals - just use a lightly moistened cloth and one for drying. Cleaning reading glasses - no cleaner required (I keep a white one for this). Shower tiles - very light spray with cleaner and wipe over every few days - or better still wipe over after a shower and no need for chemicals. Fabric lounges - dampen a corner and rub into marks - they usually disappear. To give the whole couch a clean use a slightly dampened cloth and rub all over - you'll be surprised how dirty the cloth is. Dusting - no need for Mr Sheen - just the cloth, dampened if furniture is very dusty. There is virtually no cleaning job that is not made easier, quicker and cheaper using these wonderful little cloths - just toss in the wash and ready for next time. I don't know how long they will last but I've been using the same ones for about 2 years now and still don't need to replace them. Great value for money.
- Contributed by Beth Lavington
- Contributed by Beth Lavington
Microfibre Cloths Clean Everything
Invest in a pack of microfibre clothes from your local discount shop - they usually sell in packs of three or five for a few dollars and they clean EVERYTHING!! I use them to "chamois" the car after washing, to clean the oven (and everything else in the kitchen), bathroom sinks and tiles, toilet, dusting and even to wash my make up off at night!! I now use a lot less cleaning agents and they don't require any extra scrubbing. I love them and have several in different colours for different jobs (don't want to accidently wash my face with the cloth I use to clean the toilet!!)
- Contributed by Fiona Masters
- Contributed by Fiona Masters
Spray'n'Cheap
Approximate $ Savings: $2.90 a litre
I was at Bunnings recently and stumbled upon spray and wipe concentrate in the cleaning aisle. It was $5.97 for one litre and makes up to sixty litres of spray and wipe. I had been using vinegar but on the occasions when I was buying spray and wipe style products at the supermarket I could easily pay $3 or more for 750mls of ready to use stuff. it works out at 10c a litre when you use the concentrate and it even works out cheaper than neat vinegar. Yes you do have to make a separate trip to Bunnings but you would only have to go every now and then. They also had glass cleaner concentrate.
- Contributed by Hayley Pearcey
I was at Bunnings recently and stumbled upon spray and wipe concentrate in the cleaning aisle. It was $5.97 for one litre and makes up to sixty litres of spray and wipe. I had been using vinegar but on the occasions when I was buying spray and wipe style products at the supermarket I could easily pay $3 or more for 750mls of ready to use stuff. it works out at 10c a litre when you use the concentrate and it even works out cheaper than neat vinegar. Yes you do have to make a separate trip to Bunnings but you would only have to go every now and then. They also had glass cleaner concentrate.
- Contributed by Hayley Pearcey
More Bags for Your Buck
Approximate $ Savings: $3 - $5
While browsing the aisles at Bunnings, I discovered they carry vacuum cleaner bags. Rather than get these bags at the specialist store where they are expensive, the Bunnings variety are several dollars cheaper and they seem to have one for all vacuum cleaner types and sizes. Also, my regular supplier sold packets of three bags - the ones from Bunnings have five bags. Not only a dollar saver but also more "bags for your buck".
- Contributed by Vicki, Knoxfield
While browsing the aisles at Bunnings, I discovered they carry vacuum cleaner bags. Rather than get these bags at the specialist store where they are expensive, the Bunnings variety are several dollars cheaper and they seem to have one for all vacuum cleaner types and sizes. Also, my regular supplier sold packets of three bags - the ones from Bunnings have five bags. Not only a dollar saver but also more "bags for your buck".
- Contributed by Vicki, Knoxfield
Cleaning with a Little Gumption
Approximate $ Savings: $10
I recently bought a tub of Gumption Cleaner Cream. It's a white paste in a round tub like margarine, and is used for general purpose cleaning of surfaces from ovens, to baths, to benchtops. It can be found in the cleaning aisle of any major supermarket. I cleaned my shower glass with that and all white spots are GONE. It is great cleaning paste for cleaning frypans and sinks. Polishes saucepans beautifully so they always look shiny and new and it doesn't ruin the mirror finish on the outside. Highly recommended
- Contributed by Zora Radosavac
I recently bought a tub of Gumption Cleaner Cream. It's a white paste in a round tub like margarine, and is used for general purpose cleaning of surfaces from ovens, to baths, to benchtops. It can be found in the cleaning aisle of any major supermarket. I cleaned my shower glass with that and all white spots are GONE. It is great cleaning paste for cleaning frypans and sinks. Polishes saucepans beautifully so they always look shiny and new and it doesn't ruin the mirror finish on the outside. Highly recommended
- Contributed by Zora Radosavac
I Second Cheap Microfibre Cloths
I absolutely agree that store bought microfibre cloths do just as good a job as Enjo. I haven't used Oates, and I have used different brands of cloths to the ones you have mentioned, (so I must try Mr Clean), but I would never spend money on Enjo again after using that and the Scotchbrite and Vela cloths.
-Contributed by Rachel K.
-Contributed by Rachel K.
Clean Your House Five Minutes at a Time
I have all my cleaning items in a bucket with a kitchen timer. I set it for 5 or ten minutes - depending on how much time I have - and go through the house room by room, re-setting it for the appropriate time, only spending that time in each room. It is amazing how much I can get done in each room - and the whole house benefits!
-Contributed by Ann, West Pennant Hills
-Contributed by Ann, West Pennant Hills
Old Nappies Make Excellent Hand Towels
Got plenty of leftover white cloth nappies the children don't use any more? Use them as hand towels in the kitchen. Fold them in half, open the cupboard door under the sink, lay over door and close with half the nappy hanging down. When wet or well used, turn over and use other side. Or when those spills on the floor happen you can quickly grab the nappy and soak up the mess. Place in bleach (or equivalent) to kill germs and whiten to be used again.
-Contributed by Debbie
-Contributed by Debbie
Clean with Microfibre Cloths and a Smaller Bucket
I have recently been purchasing microfibre cleaning cloths which are cutting down on chemicals and making cleaning easier. However, I realised that I was still wasting a lot of water as I was using my big, old mop bucket! So I went to the $2 store and bought two little buckets to remind me to use less water when mopping and cleaning.
- Contributed by Cynthia
- Contributed by Cynthia
Cheaper Cleaning Supplies at the Hardware Shop
Approximate $ Savings: $7.25 a week (more for more products) Browsing through Bunnings I noticed their cleaning area. What sparked my attention is the different cleaning products they had there - everything from disinfectant to body wash to Solvol handwash. For $3.65 I bought a 1 litre container of disinfectant that makes 20 litres - that's 18c per litre! The cheapest I can get at Woolworths is 50c per litre. There were other larger quantities, but I only had $5 on me and had to get other things also. From now on I can use my normal disinfectant bottle and just make it up as I need it - much cheaper, and saves me a trip to the shop to buy more (as well as saving buying bottles each time). There are all sorts of cleaning products, etc such a hand and body wash, floor cleaner, degreaser, tile cleaner...the list goes on. The saving of this over time is incredible. We normally go through at least 2 litres of disinfectant a week and have to make special trips if we end up needing more - this way it's always on hand and convenient! So check out your local Bunnings (or hardware shop) - this also works for Coffee and Sugar at the likes of Office Works.
- Contributed by Amie, Coffs Harbour
- Contributed by Amie, Coffs Harbour
Knitted Dishcloths Clean Dishes and Teach Kids to Wash Upd
Approximate $ Savings: $15-30/year or more
Use woollen knitted squares or old woollen knitted tissue holder or shoulder pads as dish scourer. They are good for little kids with little fingers who see dish washing as a fun thing to do. They also last longer than the ones you buy in the supermarket, you can wash/rinse them easily either by hand wash or throw them in the washing machine and they dry quickly, thus avoiding the chance of growing bacteria on it. The kids specially enjoy doing their washing in the sink after washing the dishes. Fun, fun, fun for the kids and at the same time teaching them to share the load of never ending house chores in the kitchen.
- Contributed by Erlinda
Use woollen knitted squares or old woollen knitted tissue holder or shoulder pads as dish scourer. They are good for little kids with little fingers who see dish washing as a fun thing to do. They also last longer than the ones you buy in the supermarket, you can wash/rinse them easily either by hand wash or throw them in the washing machine and they dry quickly, thus avoiding the chance of growing bacteria on it. The kids specially enjoy doing their washing in the sink after washing the dishes. Fun, fun, fun for the kids and at the same time teaching them to share the load of never ending house chores in the kitchen.
- Contributed by Erlinda
Sock It To the Cleaning
Approximate $ Savings: $48.00 per year
Rather than continuing to buy cleaning cloths (which I used to cut in halves or quarters), I found a better solution, that costs nothing and allows me to re-use something else that has outlived its original purpose. When our socks (particularly sports socks) have worn their elastic and are ready for the bin, I cut the toe from them and they become cleaning cloths. This allows me to keep a couple of pairs neatly folded in areas that require a spray and wipe (with my water & vinegar spray bottles), and use one sock per area, per day. Then they go straight into the laundry basket for the next load of washing. They are a good size to pop over your hand (and are pretty flexible to suit any sized hand), and I think they pick up the hair, lint and dirt better than many store bought cloths. The cut toes, let everyone know they are now for cleaning and not wearing and they can serve many more months/years use before they finally are ready for the tip. If my supply starts to run low, then I know that no-one has been through their sock draw recently!
- Contributed by Cathi
Rather than continuing to buy cleaning cloths (which I used to cut in halves or quarters), I found a better solution, that costs nothing and allows me to re-use something else that has outlived its original purpose. When our socks (particularly sports socks) have worn their elastic and are ready for the bin, I cut the toe from them and they become cleaning cloths. This allows me to keep a couple of pairs neatly folded in areas that require a spray and wipe (with my water & vinegar spray bottles), and use one sock per area, per day. Then they go straight into the laundry basket for the next load of washing. They are a good size to pop over your hand (and are pretty flexible to suit any sized hand), and I think they pick up the hair, lint and dirt better than many store bought cloths. The cut toes, let everyone know they are now for cleaning and not wearing and they can serve many more months/years use before they finally are ready for the tip. If my supply starts to run low, then I know that no-one has been through their sock draw recently!
- Contributed by Cathi
Microfibre Cleaning Cloths by the Roll
Approximate $ Savings: $100+
Rather than buying cheaper brands of microfibre cloths to use for environmentally friendly and ease for cleaning, why not go straight to your local fabric supplier and buy microfibre by the metre!!! i purchased my last lot about 6months ago now, paying approx $18 for 1.20m and as the roll is so wide i get about 40 cleaning cloths from this size equating to approx 45c for each 20cm x 20cm square and a few minutes to stitch around the edges, not necessary but does help to save time so as not to be left picking the linting pieces off my washing when I'm folding. I've previously had blue and yellow and now onto some white.
-Contributed by Patricia
Rather than buying cheaper brands of microfibre cloths to use for environmentally friendly and ease for cleaning, why not go straight to your local fabric supplier and buy microfibre by the metre!!! i purchased my last lot about 6months ago now, paying approx $18 for 1.20m and as the roll is so wide i get about 40 cleaning cloths from this size equating to approx 45c for each 20cm x 20cm square and a few minutes to stitch around the edges, not necessary but does help to save time so as not to be left picking the linting pieces off my washing when I'm folding. I've previously had blue and yellow and now onto some white.
-Contributed by Patricia
Eco Friendly, Bio Septic Friendly Cleaning Product
Approximate $ Savings: $200 per year at least
I purchase a cleaning product called Zest Citrus from a bulk cleaning sales store in my area. Other areas would have a similar store with the same type of product I'm sure. Last purchase cost me $32 for 5 litres which makes up into at least 50 litres of cleaning product. This lasts me for at least 15 months. I have a spray bottle in the kitchen, laundry and each bathroom. I use it for everything. Half recommended strength for kitchen benches, a quarter strength for my tiled floors. It is great in the bathroom - just spray on the shower screen and watch the scum disappear. I have a bio-septic system in which I can't use any disinfectants, bleach, essential oils etc. All waste is treated and pumped out onto the garden and lawn. This product is eco friendly and causes no problems in our system so should be great in general use. I'm sure some people would spend a lot more weekly but if you spend even $5 a week on cleaning products - this would save you well over $200 a year.
- Contributed by Gail
I purchase a cleaning product called Zest Citrus from a bulk cleaning sales store in my area. Other areas would have a similar store with the same type of product I'm sure. Last purchase cost me $32 for 5 litres which makes up into at least 50 litres of cleaning product. This lasts me for at least 15 months. I have a spray bottle in the kitchen, laundry and each bathroom. I use it for everything. Half recommended strength for kitchen benches, a quarter strength for my tiled floors. It is great in the bathroom - just spray on the shower screen and watch the scum disappear. I have a bio-septic system in which I can't use any disinfectants, bleach, essential oils etc. All waste is treated and pumped out onto the garden and lawn. This product is eco friendly and causes no problems in our system so should be great in general use. I'm sure some people would spend a lot more weekly but if you spend even $5 a week on cleaning products - this would save you well over $200 a year.
- Contributed by Gail
Half a Paper Towel
Approximate $ Savings: 50% of cost
Paper kitchen rolls can last twice the time. Simply tear half a square off at a time - you rarely need a whole square and it tears easily.
- Contributed by Jackie
Paper kitchen rolls can last twice the time. Simply tear half a square off at a time - you rarely need a whole square and it tears easily.
- Contributed by Jackie
Orange Bag Scourer
A cheap scourer can be made by recycling the net bags that you get fruit in. I tried on to clean my bath and it works just fine. Scrunch it up in a ball and that's it. Great for the environment and won't scratch anything.
- Contributed by Karen
- Contributed by Karen
Sturdier Spray Bottles by Refilling Originals
Approximate $ Savings: $15 per year
I got sick and tired of replacing spray pump bottles for use around the house. I found that I was paying up to $5 for these bottles from Crazy Clarks, Go Lo etc. Then I thought of Cheapskates and came up with this solution. Instead of throwing away my prewash spray pump bottle, I would rinse it out thoroughly and refill with vinegar to clean the bathroom, or metho to clean the windows etc. As I am an Aldi convert, a bottle of prewash spray is only $1.47 and I get the prewash as a bonus! All up I can save myself up to $15 per year on this cheapskate idea, as these bottles are far more durable than the ones I was buying specifically for this purpose.
- Contributed by Maureen
I got sick and tired of replacing spray pump bottles for use around the house. I found that I was paying up to $5 for these bottles from Crazy Clarks, Go Lo etc. Then I thought of Cheapskates and came up with this solution. Instead of throwing away my prewash spray pump bottle, I would rinse it out thoroughly and refill with vinegar to clean the bathroom, or metho to clean the windows etc. As I am an Aldi convert, a bottle of prewash spray is only $1.47 and I get the prewash as a bonus! All up I can save myself up to $15 per year on this cheapskate idea, as these bottles are far more durable than the ones I was buying specifically for this purpose.
- Contributed by Maureen
Half a Sponge Does the Job
When buying sponges for kitchen (I tend to use Woollies thick and chunky) when I unwrap a packet (two in a packet) I cut them in half. I do this for two reasons: 1. it then fits into my hand more easily, and 2. I get four sponges for the price of two. Then when a sponge has been used up for the kitchen (usually about a week), I then wash it with bleach or similar, and use it in the laundry. And when the laundry one is ready to go, I then use it for creative painting - they create a great effect when I'm creating land and skyscapes.
- Contributed by Cyndi
- Contributed by Cyndi
Half a Sponge
When I buy the sponge scourers for the dish washing, I always cut them in half, this way they are smaller and get into areas better and I get two for the price of one. They fit nicer in my hand too!
- Contributed by Stine
- Contributed by Stine
Micro-fibre Magic
A generic micro-fibre cloth for every room of the house, 3 for $1 at any $2 shop, has saved me thousands. One in the shower for my face saves $60 a year on facial scrubs, with a little drop of hair conditioner on it. People always comment on my soft, clear skin. Add a little soap and you have a body loofah. Then wipe over the shower with another with a little pure soap, eg velvet. I used to clean houses for a living, and people used to ask me how their shower now stayed soap-scum clean for weeks over the holidays, and it was simply using pure soap instead of Jif etc to clean. One cake of soap has lasted many years. Put a little vinegar or disinfectant on a cloth for the toilet if you want an added freshness, and one for the kitchen sink to cut down on dishwashing liquid. Saves also on bench disinfectants. Wipe down the oven, stove, fridge etc. One as a duster, and tie one onto the mop for a brilliant, hygienic clean. I bought about 9, and they have lasted for three years to date, and they are still not wearing out. Windows sparkle, for an added shine, add one drop of dishwashing liquid. Throw them in the washing machine and dryer if you want. I now have a generic Enjo mop. $4 at the $2 shop. It is now two years old. Five years ago, I went to an Enjo demonstration party, but couldn't afford the whooping $40 for one cloth. I thought that I could save up for one, one day, but I didn't need to, the generic brands started appearing.
- Contributed by Fiona, Warrnambool
- Contributed by Fiona, Warrnambool
Everyday Savings Add Up
Approximate $ Savings: $80 +++
I have found that my partner was costing me a fortune in household products. Being a male he is a bit heavy handed and not only that he doesn't like cleaning, so he would use far too much thinking that would make cleaning easier. I kept wondering how all my cleaning products would disappear so quickly - because my partner was literally pouring $$$ down the drain by using excessive amounts. Given how expensive cleaning products, shampoos, conditioners, sponges and scourers can be I had to find a solution. Now I cut sponges, scourers and wipes in half and now they last twice as long and work just as well. Additionally I now put products in pump bottles to slow down product use. For example, shampoo and conditioner is always put in a pump pack so now instead of buying a bottle every month I now find with the pump it stretches to two months. Over a year that is six bottles of shampoo and conditioner I am saving, for us that is $80 a year. I always make sure the laundry detergent has a measuring scoop, and even the dog food has to have a scoop to slow down consumption. And I haven't even added the saving from not going through so many sponges, scourers and wipes. I even put my bi-carb in a shaker and vinegar in a spray bottle for efficiency. It pays to save everyday in everyway.
- Contributed by Melissa
I have found that my partner was costing me a fortune in household products. Being a male he is a bit heavy handed and not only that he doesn't like cleaning, so he would use far too much thinking that would make cleaning easier. I kept wondering how all my cleaning products would disappear so quickly - because my partner was literally pouring $$$ down the drain by using excessive amounts. Given how expensive cleaning products, shampoos, conditioners, sponges and scourers can be I had to find a solution. Now I cut sponges, scourers and wipes in half and now they last twice as long and work just as well. Additionally I now put products in pump bottles to slow down product use. For example, shampoo and conditioner is always put in a pump pack so now instead of buying a bottle every month I now find with the pump it stretches to two months. Over a year that is six bottles of shampoo and conditioner I am saving, for us that is $80 a year. I always make sure the laundry detergent has a measuring scoop, and even the dog food has to have a scoop to slow down consumption. And I haven't even added the saving from not going through so many sponges, scourers and wipes. I even put my bi-carb in a shaker and vinegar in a spray bottle for efficiency. It pays to save everyday in everyway.
- Contributed by Melissa
Peace of Mind Cleaning
Approximate $ Savings: $40 I use vinegar to clean everything from my windows to my kids high chairs. I no longer use any harsh cleaning products which saves me a lot of money. I love using vinegar as I no longer worry about my kids getting into chemical cupboards giving me some peace of mind.
- Contributed by Irene
- Contributed by Irene
Brilliant Duster Saving Time, Money and Energy
Approximate $ Savings: Time and money
The Go Duster from GlobalShopDirect (www.globalshopdirect.com.au) has slashed our dusting time. It's quick and easy to use. Well worth the investment and gets dust from EVERYWHERE! It takes way less time to do the dusting, and gets a much more efficient clean.
- Contributed by Anne
The Go Duster from GlobalShopDirect (www.globalshopdirect.com.au) has slashed our dusting time. It's quick and easy to use. Well worth the investment and gets dust from EVERYWHERE! It takes way less time to do the dusting, and gets a much more efficient clean.
- Contributed by Anne
One Cleaner Does It All
Use bi-carb soda instead of Jiff, Gumption or any abrasive chemical cleaner. Clean your kitchen benches, stove top, bathroom vanity and shower. You will not only save money but the environment too! For added power just add vinegar.
-Contributed by Clare
-Contributed by Clare
One Glove Does it All
I clean all my kitchen with an Enjo glove and a clean tea towel. It's really efficient uses no chemicals and is environmentally friendly. Stainless steel looks great. You do not have to buy cleaning chemicals and it is so quick, I have not had to replace one glove in 3 years. It's amazing.
- Contributed by Carole
- Contributed by Carole
Spray, Wipe and Clean for a Few Cents
Approximate $ Savings : $3 + per bottle
I found this recipe on a UK reality show. To make a generic spray and wipe use 2 cups of hot tap water, 4 tablespoons white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of borax and a few generous drops of lavender oil. It makes the perfect amount to reuse an old Spray 'n' Wipe bottle. Just make sure you dissolve the borax well in the hot water before adding it the bottle. The lavender smell makes a welcome change from the usual citrus and I've found it works as a bit of a deterrent to the ants in my kitchen.
- Contributed by Kyle
I found this recipe on a UK reality show. To make a generic spray and wipe use 2 cups of hot tap water, 4 tablespoons white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of borax and a few generous drops of lavender oil. It makes the perfect amount to reuse an old Spray 'n' Wipe bottle. Just make sure you dissolve the borax well in the hot water before adding it the bottle. The lavender smell makes a welcome change from the usual citrus and I've found it works as a bit of a deterrent to the ants in my kitchen.
- Contributed by Kyle
Simple Stainless Cleaner
Approximate $ Savings: $8.00
Instead of buying specialised Stainless Steel Cleaners to clean your stove and rangehood etc simply pour a little baby oil onto some paper towel. Wipe it over the oven and then just buff it up with a more paper towel. Hey presto clean, smear free stainless steel at very little cost!! Homebrand baby oil is just perfect!
- Contributed by Colleen
Instead of buying specialised Stainless Steel Cleaners to clean your stove and rangehood etc simply pour a little baby oil onto some paper towel. Wipe it over the oven and then just buff it up with a more paper towel. Hey presto clean, smear free stainless steel at very little cost!! Homebrand baby oil is just perfect!
- Contributed by Colleen
The Wonder Cleaning Oil
Eucalyptus oil is a cheap and very handy product to keep in your cupboard. It works wonders for cleaning up chewing gum, sticky residues of glass and other surfaces and works wonders with reducing fever by putting it on the soles of the patients feet.
- Contributed by Cathy
- Contributed by Cathy
Ecrave for Household Supplies
]To save money on nappies, wet wipes, cleaning supplies, laundry powder, toilet paper etc call Ecrave on 1300 313 791. We are a small family owned business supplying day care centres, pubs, restaurants, cafes etc with everything from a full kitchen to a roll of toilet paper. Orders over $100 get a free next day delivery anywhere in Sydney or you can collect from our warehouse. We only sell quality! Our chemical are bio-degradable, our laundry powder is low irritant so perfect for the kiddies! Don't just read this and think yeah ok come and meet us or pick up the phone and start saving today!!!
Extend the Life of Enjo Cloths
Approximate $ Savings: $40
This is for those that love their Enjo gloves. My bathroom glove stopped cleaning effectively. I had used it for a few years. Upon Examination I found the tips of the fibres were held together with lint or simply tangled. I tried out a razor, scraping across the fibres removing the lint. My bathroom cloth is now smooth and cleans just as it did before. This means I can hold off buying another bathroom glove for a while. I hope this helps.
- Contributed by Susanne
This is for those that love their Enjo gloves. My bathroom glove stopped cleaning effectively. I had used it for a few years. Upon Examination I found the tips of the fibres were held together with lint or simply tangled. I tried out a razor, scraping across the fibres removing the lint. My bathroom cloth is now smooth and cleans just as it did before. This means I can hold off buying another bathroom glove for a while. I hope this helps.
- Contributed by Susanne
Save in the Kitchen
Approximate $ Savings: $10 per month
I save money by extending the life of my household sponges/washcloths. Any sponge, wettex or Chux type cloth can go in the dishwasher with the dishes. These items now last up to a year instead of just 2 weeks.
- Contributed by Elizabeth
I save money by extending the life of my household sponges/washcloths. Any sponge, wettex or Chux type cloth can go in the dishwasher with the dishes. These items now last up to a year instead of just 2 weeks.
- Contributed by Elizabeth
Cheaper, Longer Lasting Dishcloths
Instead of buying expensive dishcloths that have to be regularly replaced, I use face washers. They are easy to keep clean, throw into the washing machine with towels etc. They will even stand up to regular bleaching to remove germs. They last almost indefinitely.
- Contributed by Lesley
- Contributed by Lesley
750% Saving on Everyday Spray Cleaner
Approximate Savings: $31.20/year Liking a clean house, but almost fainting at the prices of spray type cleaners, for kitchen and bathroom I devised this trick, which saves me a fortune. I buy a small bottle of concentrated hospital grade disinfectant, which costs approximately $1.60. This will make 4 x 250ml spray bottles when diluted. It works well on all surfaces in the home. The cost is 40c per 250 ml bottle compared to $3 plus for those on supermarket shelves.
- Contributed by Lynn, Beverley, December 2006
- Contributed by Lynn, Beverley, December 2006
Generic Gel Cleaner Better Than Ajax
Woollies have just introduced a 2 in 1 gel cleaner for $1.92 that is exactly the same as Ajax Gel which costs about 5 dollars. It is exactly the same...in fact it's better because of the price. Do I need say more?
- Contributed by Silvia
- Contributed by Silvia
Get Some Gumption
I use 'Gumption' cleaning paste to clean just about everything except the loo. It is cheap and lasts for a really long time. I worked where old fridges and washers were bought, cleaned up, fixed and resold. And what I saw Gumption do was almost miraculous. I did it with my own fridge and washer that we had carted over 3000 kms in a trailer. They looked brand new and I got a great price when I sold them at a garage sale. My husband has just used it to detail our car before we sell it.
- Contributed by Donna
- Contributed by Donna
Eucalyptus Oil, the Cheap Alternative
Eucalyptus oil cleans, disinfects and deodorises. You can clean floors and other surfaces, even ovens and toilets, add to nappy buckets. As a stain remover for grease, lipstick, ink or beetroot it can be rubbed into the stain or add a spoonful to your washing. As a decongestant, a few drops into a bowl of steaming water or on a handkerchief should do the trick. Insect repellent: eucalyptus oil can be mixed with baby oil or vegetable oil, and rubbed on when outdoors acts as an insect repellent. It will also remove oil-based paint off brushes, skin, etc. Also useful to remove price stickers from hard to remove items, and take away the sticker residue on walls etc. A cotton ball soaked in eucalyptus oil in a cupboard will get rid of silver fish and roaches. So there you go, it's not just for the koala bears.
- Contributed by Kaye
- Contributed by Kaye
2-in-1 Cleaner
Woollies have introduced a two-in-one gel cleaner for $1.92 that is exactly like Ajax Jel, which costs about $5 for the same size. Need I say more? Happy Cheapskating.
- Contributed by Silvia
- Contributed by Silvia
Liquid Sugar Soap as a General Purpose Cleaner
I put a small amount of Selleys Liquid Sugar Soap in a spray bottle fill with water and it cleans everything in the house! A little goes a long way.
- Contributed by Carolyn
- Contributed by Carolyn
Re-cycle the Kitchen Sponge
When the kitchen sponge is old and ready for the bin - don't throw it away. Use it in the laundry for tough clean up jobs then throw it out. Do the same for old, used toothbrushes - they're handy in the laundry or garage too.
- Contributed by Stella
- Contributed by Stella
99 Cent Spray Bottle for Peace of Mind
It's probably been said before but as a cleaning freak I was going through tons and tons of money buying spray and wipe. Now you might say just use water and soap but the peace of mind cleaning solution is buying disinfectant and a .99c spray bottle. It lasts for ages especially if you buy the big bottle of disinfectant.
- Contributed by Daniella
- Contributed by Daniella
Baby Wipes are Cheap and Effective Household Cleaners
I use only a few baby wipes to clean my bathroom. I use one wipe for the vanity and sink, one for the toilet lid, seat and then bowl and one for wiping down the taps and then the tub. This is a really quick way to clean the bathroom as baby wipes will remove lots of different stains including make up and toothpaste on vanities and rings from the inside of the bathtub. Another plus is that there are no awful chemical fumes so it is safe for me to get my sons to clean the bathroom. A tub of baby wipes is relatively cheap when stacked up against the commercial cleaning products as well as the cost of sponges, cloths, etc. I also use them to wipe down the coffee table and to clean the walls of fingerprints and grubby marks. As I have a baby in the house anyway I find this a very inexpensive way of cleaning up in many rooms of the house for a fraction of what I would normally pay for cleaning products and equipment.
- Contributed by Lucinda
- Contributed by Lucinda
Water and Elbow Grease Clean Quickly and Safely
When cleaning my house I have invested in a few good quality cleaning cloths and use only water in the first instance. 90% of the time water and a little elbow grease is all it takes to keep floors and surfaces clean and shining.
- Contributed by Sue
- Contributed by Sue
One Cleaner for all Jobs
I use dishwashing liquid for nearly every room in the house. It is safe to use and economical. I put one in every toilet, somewhere handy and in the bathroom. I keep a bottle in the shower. When I have to clean that room I just simply squeeze it down the toilet and clean it with a brush. I put some hot water in the bathroom basin with some dishwashing liquid and with and old face washer wipe down all the surfaces including mirrors and toilets. It doesn't really need to be rinsed but I usually have one other go with after I've rinsed the cloth. I also keep a bottle of hand wash (500ml) or whatever size you like near every sink in the house so everyone remembers to wash their hands and although I buy the fist bottle, after that I fill them with peach dishwashing liquid and no one knows any better. If you want you can add a bit of sorbolene cream to the bottle and give it a good shake and it becomes a creamy colour that doesn't look at all like dishwashing liquid. In the shower....I use one of those plastic netting "sponges" and turn the water on a bit, then squeeze dishwashing liquid onto the scourer and give the shower a good scrub. It rinses away easily as you have a shower and cleans the base as it washes off. Although once in a while I throw a bucket of hot water with chlorine on the base of my showers to make sure they are disinfected, keeps the grouting clean too. In the kitchen I fill the sink with fresh water and dishwashing liquid after I do the dishes, (you only need a little) and use a dishcloth to clean down all the surfaces. I find the green scourers like the ones that come on the back of sponges (heavy duty though) clean the sinks to a lovely shine without having to use anything else. I will also get grime off the stove and oven. Then I use a rinsed cloth and go over the surface again. As I said before rinsing is only necessary for surfaces that show water streaks easily, but I like to rinse all the surfaces. I buy dishwashing liquid (I like Trix) when it's on special and rarely pay more than $1.49 a litre for it. Good Value for all that cleaning. Oh...I nearly forgot it does wonders in the bathtub and everything dries to a beautiful shine as it doesn't wear surfaces down. Happy Cheapskating.
- Contributed by Silvia
- Contributed by Silvia
Extra Clean Cleaning Cloths
To save money on buying expensive dishcloths when your old ones become smelly. Fill a pot with water and add a generous dash of white vinegar and your dish cloths, bring to the boil on the wok burner of your outdoor BBQ boil for 10-15 minutes, remove and dry as normal. The added bonus with this tip is that all the awful smells stay outside and your house remains nice and fresh.
Contributed by Michelle
Contributed by Michelle
Re-use of Plastic Bags
If you must use plastic bags for your shopping, re-use them by substituting for rubbish bin liners. This will not only save you money, but will also reduce amount of plastic in the environment.
- Contributed by Carmen
- Contributed by Carmen
Freeze Steel Wool to Make it Last
Instead of throwing out partly used steel wool knowing it will go rusty, put it in the freezer for next time. It won't rust in the freezer!
- Contributed by Sally
- Contributed by Sally
Cleaning Products
Further to the problem of mould and mildew around the home, I recently heard a hint on TV. Bleach doesn't kill the mildew spores as in the shower, but Oil of Cloves does. It was mentioned that you can buy oil of cloves at the supermarket but I didn't have any luck. You can buy it at the Pharmacy but I'm not sure of the quantity. I think a small bottle wouldn't go too far.
- Contributed by Jenny
- Contributed by Jenny
Secret Cleaning Products
Many things can be made with simple, cheap ingredients that can be bought at the supermarket. I make window cleaner out of metho and water, bathroom cleaner out of vinegar and metho, and surface cleaner out of metho and a drop of eucalyptus oil. You can also make eardrops by combining vinegar and metho... these combinations are all pretty mush the same as commercial options, though often safer, and cost MUCH less.
- Contributed by Cam
- Contributed by Cam
Microfibre Cloths
If you haven't tried microfibre cloths for cleaning you really should. No need to use chemicals so you save a fortune and your back carrying all those cleaning products, not to mention your health (no nasty chemicals) and the environment. I use them for almost everything. They can be cleaned by throwing them in the washing machine (no fabric softener) and they are ready to reuse. Brilliant!
- Contributed by Joanne
- Contributed by Joanne
Mould Problems
I have discovered a MUCH cheaper solution to prevent mildew and mould in wardrobes. Buy the cheapest Kitty Litter and the cheapest carpet deodorizer (powder). In a recycled ice cream container fill mostly with Kitty Litter and add enough deodorizer to camouflage the smell of Kitty Litter. Place in the bottom of built-in-wardrobes, linen cupboards or walk-in-robes and enjoy the benefits of no mould and mildew. Change mixture in containers every 4 months.
- Contributed by Kylie
- Contributed by Kylie
Best Cleanser I Have Seen For Cleaning Hands From Oil Paint
If you are painting the house and you get oil paint on your hands the best stuff to clean it with is eucalyptus oil. Just use the oil straight from the bottle and pour over the hands, rub hands gently together and the paint is gone. The paint disappears like magic and your hands will be baby soft. I have to warn however that maybe some people are allergic to eucalyptus oil or as it is so strong if you have tendency to be allergic do not use it. Also keep the bottle of oil locked up away from the kids as I have read on the net it could be dangerous or fatal if swallowed. Eucalyptus oil is such a cheap cleanser that I am absolutely amazed. Just mix a few drops of oil or even half the cap oil (the cap on the bottle) into a spray bottle and fill the spray bottle with water. I use it to clean absolutely everything in the home. It's also better for your health and the smell is so fresh. One bottle of oil around $5-$10 depending on the brand lasts me for the whole year.
– Contributed by Ann
– Contributed by Ann
One Cleaner for Everything
I use dishwashing liquid for nearly every room in the house. It is safe to use and economical. I put one bottle in every toilet, somewhere handy and in the bathroom. I keep a bottle in the shower. When I have to clean that room I just simply squeeze it down the toilet and clean it with a brush. I put some hot water in the bathroom basin with some dishwashing liquid and with and old face washer wipe down all the surfaces including mirrors and toilets. It doesn't really need to be rinsed but I usually have one other wipe over after I've rinsed the cloth. I also keep a bottle of hand wash (500ml) or whatever size you like near every sink in the house so everyone remembers to wash their hands and although I buy the first bottle, after that I fill them with peach dishwashing liquid and no one knows any better. If you want you can add a bit of sorbolene cream to the bottle and give it a good shake and it becomes a creamy colour that doesn't look at all like dishwashing liquid. In the shower....I use one of those plastic netting "sponges" and turn the water on a bit, then squeeze dishwashing liquid onto the scourer and give the shower a good scrub. It rinses away easily as you have a shower and cleans the base as it washes off. Once in a while I throw a bucket of hot water with chlorine on the base of my showers to make sure they are disinfected, keeps the grouting clean too. In the kitchen I fill the sink with fresh water and dishwashing liquid after I do the dishes (you only need a little) and use a dishcloth to clean down all the surfaces. I find the green scourers like the ones that come on the back of sponges (heavy duty though) clean the sinks to a lovely shine without having to use anything else. I will also get grime off the stove and oven. Then I use a rinsed cloth and go over the surface again. As I said before rinsing is only necessary for surfaces that show water streaks easily, but I like to rinse all the surfaces. I buy dishwashing liquid (I like Trix) when it's on special and rarely pay more than $1.49 a litre for it. Good Value for all that cleaning. Oh...I nearly forgot it does wonders in the bathtub and everything dries to a beautiful shine, as it doesn't wear surfaces down. Happy Cheapskating.
- Contributed by Silvia
- Contributed by Silvia
Saving on Paper Towels
Instead of buying paper towels, using them once and throwing them away, I have kept old bath towels that have thinned, so they aren't so bulky. I cut them into squares and stitch the sides to prevent fraying. When I have finished with them, I wash them in bleach, hang them on the line and they are ready for me to use again next time. They are much more absorbent than paper towels too!
– Contributed by Sheridan
– Contributed by Sheridan
Three Times the Might
I buy good quality scourer pads, which are thick and strong but then cut them with scissors into 3 (longways) this means it's easier to use and you use every bit before you throw it out and get the next one.
- Contributed by Fleur
- Contributed by Fleur
White King for Cleaning Kitchen Benches
Put 1:100 of white king to water in a spray bottle and use this to wipe down surfaces in kitchens, bathrooms, and toilets. The concentrate is not enough if it gets on your clothes to discolour them. Once told to me buy a chef.
- Contributed by Donna
- Contributed by Donna
Polishing Around the House
My husband is a builder and showed me one of his great tricks of the trade for cleaning all stainless steel surfaces in our house. He uses (and I now also do) a small amount of WD-40 on an old rag and just wipes over the dirty surfaces. I was amazed at how little effort is required to polish all stainless steel surfaces. With small children and all stainless steel appliances and door handles this was a godsend. It is so cheap to buy from the hardware shops. Hubby gave me one of his old spray cans that could no longer spray, but by piercing a hole near the top of the tin, it made it even easier to pour a tiny amount on to an old rag. My friends can't believe how clean I keep my appliances and up until now I haven't revealed the 'trade secret'. Give it a try; I know how well it works!
- Contributed by Kate
- Contributed by Kate
Pourable Bi-carb
Buy the largest box of bicarb and pour into a flour sifter. Use this to sprinkle Bicarb onto soiled areas. Saves bicarb tipping out of box. Also add a little salt to make it pour.
- Contributed by Terrie
- Contributed by Terrie
Homebrand Pre-wash
Hello all! My tip is to use 'home brand' pre wash fabric spray to clean greasy stubborn marks of anything i.e. the range hood and the cupboards above the stovetop. I shop at Coles and use their brand.... this tip is a use at your own risk but in saying that it worked for me... my 2 year old got hold of a permanent black marker and drew on the wall, I used the spray then very gently rub with a scourer and then wipe with a damp cloth - IT WORKED!!!!
- Contributed by Monica
- Contributed by Monica
Gumption
Had problems getting marks off walls, dirty tiles, stains on stove top or scum off the bath, look no further as I have been introduced to Gumption it is around $2.80 in the Supermarket and it removes anything and isn't as harsh as Domestos.
- Contributed by Karen
- Contributed by Karen
Shaker Powder Warning
Shaker powder for your carpet can leave your room smelling great, but as your vacuum sucks up the fine powder, the motor will continue to try and suck it through the paper bag, into the motor (the pores on the paper bag can still let fine dust through), leaving you up for costly repairs or a new machine! Many stores now sell a granule deodoriser (granules roughly the size of Nescafe 43) in sachets which you can put into the paper bag, the granules won't get sucked through the bag, your room will smell fresh and your vacuum should last longer!
Also, make sure that you don't use your vacuum to suck up other fine dust e.g. Gyprock powder, talcum powder, and concrete dust. A similar thing will happen - the motor will attempt to suck the dust through the bag! If you simply MUST do it, make sure as soon as you finish, replace the bag ASAP and dispose of the old paper bag.
- Contributed by Lisa
- Contributed by Lisa
Sugar Soap
Buy sugar soap as a cleaning agent. Water it down in a spray bottle and you'll be surprises how far it goes, how quick it cleans and how less often you'll be forking out for cleaning agents. My squirt bottle sits on the bench in my kitchen, I have a grubby hubby, a feral 2 year old and I have found over the last year by accident when I had run out of pine o clean it did the trick in half the time and cost half as much.
- Contributed by Maresa, Melbourne
- Contributed by Maresa, Melbourne
Micro Cleaning
I save time and money on cleaning products by using inexpensive micro-fibre cloths found in the cleaning isle of the supermarket or alternatively Kmart have a good range for different purposes.
Micro-fibre cloths work best wet and just wipe the surface you are cleaning, the fibres in the cloth do the cleaning. There is no need for any cleaning products as these clog the cloths and reduces their effectiveness. This is some of the ways I clean my house using Micro-fibre cloths:
1. I have different coloured micro-fibre cloths for different purposes ie. Green - bathroom, pink -kitchen, blue -laundry, white -glass, yellow -grease, etc.
2. I locate the cloths at their site to be used, saves time getting them when you want to use them.
3. To clean the shower: whilst having a shower I take the cloth, wet it in the shower and wipe down one wall. I do a different wall each day. This removes the soap scum. After the last person of the day I take a squeegee (located in the shower) and squeegee the walls and floor to keep the mould at bay.
4. To wash mirrors and windows just wipe a wet micro-fibre cloth across the glass, water droplets will be left, however when the glass dries your glass will be perfectly clean.
5. To wash greasy things make sure you use cold water on the cloth as hot water smears the grease. I cleaned my range-hood using just a micro-fibre cloth.
6. For mopping the floor use a micro-fibre mop or use a micro-fibre cloth in a ‘Swifer type mop. These can be used dry for sweeping and wet for mopping. No need for chemicals.
7. For anything that needed disinfecting I use white vinegar as it is inexpensive and has anti-bacterial properties.
8. To clean the cloths put them in a delicates machine bag to keep the lint off them and put into the washing machine with your normal washing then hang out to dry.
- Contributed by Cheryl, Scoresby
- Contributed by Cheryl, Scoresby
Cheap, Effective Cleaner
A cheap but effective cleaner is made using liquid sugar soap (make strength to suit)and then add a couple of capfuls of eucalyptus oil and shake. I use it to clean bench tops, floors, vanities and the toilet and even marks on walls.
- Contributed by Marilyn
- Contributed by Marilyn
Bulk Cleaning Supplies
For bulk cleaning supplies in NSW and free delivery if you order over $30, check out http://secure.jamac.com.au/- you are best to ring up to order and see if they deliver to your area. They do have a list of the days that they deliver to particular areas. They also have a shop that you can go to which is in Baulkham Hills I think from memory.
- Contributed by Leisha
- Contributed by Leisha
Cutting Back
Get in the frugal habit of measuring cleaning supplies according to directions, then begin to cut back a little at a time until you find it no longer does a good job. Increase just a little and use that much and no more. Eyeballing may be good for recipes (if you're so inclined) but not for saving pennies.
Moves Any Mark!
Approximate $ Savings: $100
The concept of Magic Erasers is not new, but I buy them in bulk lots of 100 direct from China for $13.99 with free postage. I can clean leather, plastics, walls, metal, ceramics... practically anything. Just add a bit of water. They are also eco friendly.
Contributed by Ellen Jennings
The concept of Magic Erasers is not new, but I buy them in bulk lots of 100 direct from China for $13.99 with free postage. I can clean leather, plastics, walls, metal, ceramics... practically anything. Just add a bit of water. They are also eco friendly.
Contributed by Ellen Jennings