5 Cleaning Gadgets Under £15 That Actually Work (And 3 That Don't)
TikTok is full of 'genius' cleaning gadgets. Most are rubbish. We tested the ones that showed up most often — here are the five that actually earn their spot under the sink.
SHOPTHIVA Editors
What actually works
Microfibre cloths — the undisputed champion. A microfibre dust cover (£3.99) picks up dust without spraying chemicals everywhere. Silicone bottle brush — reaches inside narrow bottles and dries instantly (no mouldy sponge smell). Grout brush — a £3 brush with stiff bristles beats any 'miracle' spray.
What doesn't work: Electric spin scrubbers under £15 — the motors are too weak to actually scrub. 'Magic' cleaning pastes — they're baking soda and water, repackaged at 10x the price. Self-cleaning litter trays under £30 — the mechanism jams within a week.
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Frequently asked questions
Are microfibre cloths better than regular cloths?
Yes — the split fibres create a static charge that traps dust rather than pushing it around. Use dry for dusting, damp for cleaning. Wash separately from cotton (they attract lint).
How often should I replace cleaning cloths?
Microfibre cloths last 300-500 washes. Replace when they stop feeling 'grabby' — that's the fibres wearing down.
What's the one cleaning product everyone should own?
White vinegar. It cleans glass, descales kettles, removes odours, and costs 50p a bottle. 90% of commercial cleaners are vinegar with a fragrance and a markup.