8 household cleaners you need - and 4 you don't

By Mary Ellen Pinkham

Save yourself time and sanity next time you clean the house by using products that will actually make the job easier. Here's a power list of eight must-have cleaners, as well as four that you shouldn't waste your money on

Abrasive cleaner All-purpose cleaner Ammonia Mildew remover Spot cleaner for upholstery and rugs Soap and scum remover Laundry detergent Oven cleaner

*Plus, 4 products you shouldn't waste your money on

Abrasive cleaner
It's not elbow grease you need when you're scrubbing away a clump of burned-on food or dripped soap, it's abrasive power. Plain old baking soda will often do the job, but if you need a little more oomph, pick up one of the brand names on the market. Keep in mind you'll want to choose one that you can use on porcelain and metals, so it won't scratch taps and fixtures.

All-purpose cleaner
Plain washing-up liquid and water, mixed in a spray bottle, can do most all-purpose jobs. Don't use too much detergent or the solution gets too sudsy to spray. Also, your local household supplier can provide a good neutral-pH cleaner - one that isn't too acidic or too alkaline. For kitchen counters, the bathroom sink and other lightly soiled surfaces, mix two pints of water with 1/2 cup of vinegar in a spray bottle and keep it handy. For the heaviest-duty jobs, such as cleaning a fireplace, your hardware store can recommend special products.

Ammonia
Ammonia without suds and without lemon (which causes streaking) makes a great window cleaner. Add a capful or two to two pints of water.