Let’s be honest, cleaning tools don’t exactly get the glory for their work. We happily admire a sparkling kitchen or a freshly cleaned floor, but who thinks about the mop that made it happen? While our supplies help us maintain our homes, those hardworking tools can become surprisingly dirty themselves. If your cleaning supplies are starting to look like they need a cleaning crew of their own, it’s time for a refresh! Here’s how often to wash, clean, or replace some of the most common cleaning tools around your home.

Mops

Clean: After every use 

Replace: Every year, or when the mop head becomes worn or smelly even when dry 

Mops pick up plenty of dirt, bacteria, and grime, so leaving a damp mop sitting in a closet is a recipe for unpleasant odors. Rinse the mop head thoroughly after each use and allow it to dry completely. Wash machine-washable mop heads according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Replace the head when the fibers become flattened, damaged, or difficult to clean.

Vacuum Cleaners

Clean: Every 1–3 months 

Replace: When performance declines significantly or the machine can no longer be maintained economically 

Your vacuum doesn’t necessarily need replacing every few years. Regular maintenance can give it a much longer life. Empty the dustbin after each use or when it reaches the recommended fill level, clean or replace filters as directed, and remove hair and debris from the brush roll. A vacuum that smells, overheats, loses suction, or makes unusual noises may need replacement! 

Dusters & Microfiber Cloths 

Clean: After each use – shake outside in an open area 

Replace: When the fibers become worn or the duster can no longer trap dust effectively 

A dirty duster can simply move dust around rather than actually collecting it. Shake washable dusters and cloths outdoors when appropriate and wash them according to their care instructions. However, most dusters and mircofiber cloths are quite inexpensive and can be replaced more frequently without breaking the bank. Disposable dusters should be replaced when they become loaded with dust.

Toilet Brushes 

Wash: After every use 

Replace: Every 6–12 months, or sooner if damaged 

After cleaning the toilet, rinse the brush thoroughly and allow it to dry as much as possible before returning it to its holder. Don’t forget the holder itself as it needs regular cleaning too! If the bristles become worn or the brush develops a persistent odor, replace it.

Brooms 

Clean: Every few weeks, or whenever visibly dirty – shake outside in an open area 

Replace: When the bristles become permanently bent or worn 

A broom can collect an impressive amount of hair, dust, and debris. Take it outside and remove trapped dirt regularly. Wash the bristles if possible, then let the broom dry completely. Once the bristles are too bent to sweep effectively, it’s time to retire it.

Cleaning Buckets 

Wash: After every use 

Replace: When cracked, leaking, or difficult to clean 

Empty buckets immediately after cleaning, rinse it thoroughly, and let it dry before storing. If you notice cracks or leaks, replace the bucket rather than waiting for it to turn your next cleaning session into an accidental indoor swimming pool.

Cleaning Caddies 

Wash: Every few weeks, or whenever spills occur 

Replace: When cracked, broken, or difficult to sanitize 

Your cleaning caddy carries all the products and tools you use to make your home sparkle so it deserves a little attention too. Wipe it down regularly and clean up any leaks or spills promptly as chemical cleaning solutions can damage the caddie material. A quick refresh keeps dirt and product residue from building up. 

Your cleaning tools work as hard as you at keeping a fresh home. Every now and then, they deserve their own little spa day! Keeping tools and other supplies clean helps them work better and can extend their useful life. So the next time you’re doing a cleaning blitz, don’t forget the tools themselves. After all, a cleaner home starts with clean cleaning supplies.