. A 20-pack of microfiber towels (wash 'em as needed). "I've saved thousands of dollars on paper towels and window cleaner since I started using microfiber," says Romero. Make sure to buy good-quality cloths, usually around $1 per cloth from a janitorial supply store, and never wash with dryer sheets or fabric softener. Pro tip: Before using a cleaning product for dusting, try just warm water and the microfiber. "It usually works," says Romero.
2. A microfiber mop. On a tight budget, it's cheaper and less wasteful than disposable mops. Pro tip: Great for picking up dust in high and low corners.
3. A nylon-bristle broom. "It doesn't splatter walls or lose its bristles," says Payne. Pro tip: Sweep your rug. It often works better than a vacuum.
4. A Shammy. A synthetic version of the traditional chamois cloth, this rubbery, hyper-absorbent towel is great for soaking up water and quickly buffing counters and furniture. Pro tip: Run a dry Shammy over a couch or floor to pick up pet hair.
5. A backpack vacuum. Professional cleaners love backpack-style vacuums because they're gentle on back muscles and make it easy to move quickly from room to room. Pro tip: Look beyond the floor. It's easy to quickly vacuum shelf surfaces, mantels, railings and inside drawers if you use lightweight hand extensions.