What’s In Your Kit? The Kit
So I’m going to be working on a series where we pull back the curtain and show you what’s in our cleaning kit.
Many products are vying for your attention as a consumer. It can be difficult to tell what works just by listening to advertising claims and looking at the bottle. It can be very expensive to test products and you end up with half-full bottles crowding the cabinet under your sink.
I think I am obligated to tell you: I am not an affiliate of these products or their manufacturers and I am not making money from this blog post. I’m just a huge fan.
The Kit
First, let’s start with the base. You might ask yourself: “Why do I need a carry bag in my own house? I’m not going anywhere.” The carry bag is a fantastic tool to keep everything organized while stored and a great way to bring what you need room-to-room.
In the cleaning industry, we say, “don’t take steps you aren’t getting paid for,” which is a way to help remind ourselves and our staff to move purposefully, not wear themselves out and eat up their time wandering about, and always have what they need in the same room as them. When you have your carry bag with all your tools and chemicals in the same space you are working, you will maximize your efficiency, reduce the amount of time you spend cleaning, and have energy at the end of your day.
Masterforce Supply Tote (Our Pick)
It is spacious: bottles fit easily in the outside pockets, tools in the inside pockets, and then there’s still the whole inside to work with. The grips are super strong and comfy. There’s a little clip-strap on the side to add a broom head, duster, or attach a small canvas tote or trash bag. They can be purchased at Menards for about $14 apiece. (Purchase link)
Husky Supply Tote
If there’s not a Menards near you (or I bought out the Manhattan Menards again, whoopsie) you won’t find a Masterforce online. A lot of professionals in our industry swear by the Husky brand tote. It has all the same features as the Masterforce, but a heftier price tag- $52 on Amazon. (Purchase link)
Other Totes
If you aren’t a fan of either of the above, here’s what to look for:
14” or above seems to be the sweet spot. Anything smaller than that and your pockets will be too small to hold bottles.
Water resistant is definitely the way to go in case of spills.
Padded handles are the bomb: you’d be surprised how heavy these get when loaded.
Amber Starling, Author
Founder and President of
Good Witch Cleaning Services, LLC
IICRC Journeyman Textile Cleaner