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

1. Abrasive cleaner
2. All-purpose cleaner
3. Ammonia
4. Mildew remover
5. Spot cleaner for upholstery and rugs
6. Soap and scum remover
7. Laundry detergent
8. Oven cleaner

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.