Cleaning Products
All-Purpose Cleaner
A general cleaner suitable for most hard surfaces—counters, appliances, sinks, and more. The workhorse of apartment cleaning. Not suitable for all surfaces (check labels for exceptions like marble or wood).
Degreaser
A cleaner specifically formulated to cut through grease and oil. More effective than all-purpose cleaner for stovetops, range hoods, and greasy kitchen surfaces. Also useful for removing buildup around door handles.
Disinfectant
A product that kills germs and bacteria on surfaces. Different from regular cleaners, which remove dirt but may not kill microorganisms. Check contact time—most disinfectants need to stay wet on the surface for several minutes to work effectively.
Descaler / Lime Scale Remover
A cleaner designed to remove mineral deposits (calcium, lime) from surfaces. Used on faucets, showerheads, and anywhere hard water leaves white buildup. Often acid-based.
Enzyme Cleaner
A cleaner that uses enzymes to break down organic matter like food, pet stains, and odors. Works differently than chemical cleaners—the enzymes continue working over time. Effective for carpet stains and persistent odors.
Cleaning Tools
Microfiber Cloth
A synthetic cloth with extremely fine fibers that trap dust and dirt effectively. Better than cotton for most cleaning tasks. Washable and reusable. Use dry for dusting, damp for surface cleaning.
Squeegee
A flat rubber blade tool used to remove water from smooth surfaces. Essential for streak-free window cleaning and preventing shower soap scum.
Grout Brush
A small, stiff-bristled brush designed to clean the lines between tiles. Can also be used for other detailed scrubbing tasks.
Cleaning Methods
Deep Clean
Thorough cleaning that goes beyond regular maintenance. Includes areas often skipped—inside appliances, behind furniture, baseboards, grout lines. Done less frequently than regular cleaning (monthly or seasonally).
Spot Clean
Cleaning a specific stain or area rather than the whole surface. Used for carpet stains, upholstery marks, or quick touch-ups between full cleanings.
Maintenance Clean
Regular, routine cleaning that keeps spaces at baseline cleanliness. Daily habits and weekly tasks. The goal is preventing buildup rather than removing heavy dirt.
Common Issues
Hard Water
Water with high mineral content (calcium, magnesium). Leaves white deposits on fixtures, spots on dishes, and buildup in pipes. Requires descaling products to remove deposits.
Soap Scum
The film that builds up on shower surfaces—a combination of soap, body oils, and minerals from water. Prevented by squeegeeing after showers. Removed with bathroom cleaners or vinegar-based solutions.
Mildew vs. Mold
Mildew: Surface fungus, usually gray or white, easy to clean with standard cleaners. Common in bathrooms.
Mold: Can grow into surfaces, often darker colors (black, green). More serious—may require professional remediation if extensive. Both thrive in moisture.
Grout
The cement-like material between tiles. Porous and prone to staining. Needs regular cleaning and periodic sealing to prevent discoloration and moisture penetration.
Floor Types
Laminate
Synthetic flooring with a photographic layer that looks like wood or tile. Water-resistant but can be damaged by excessive moisture. Clean with damp (not wet) mop.
LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank)
Synthetic flooring designed to look like hardwood. More water-resistant than laminate. Durable and easy to clean. Popular in apartments.
Hardwood
Solid or engineered wood flooring. Requires gentle care—minimal water, specific cleaners. Never use vinegar on finished hardwood.