I receive a lot of questions from readers about all sorts of topics, and I do try to answer as many of those emails as I can! But when I start getting a similar question from several different readers, it’s a good indication that I ought to address the question in a blog post! And recently, I’ve had quite a few people email me asking about a cheaper, greener alternative for the pads and cleaning solution for Swiffer products. So that’s what I’ll be addressing today! :-)
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Did you know that since Procter and Gamble introduced the Swiffer in 1999, it has grown to become one of the most recognized and successful brands in American history, with retail sales at over a half billion dollars??!! That’s a lot of “swiffering!” :-) It’s obviously an idea people like… a LOT!
But constantly buying the refills for your Swiffer Sweeper or Wet Jet can add up fast! So today I’m going to show you how to save yourself some money AND save resources by making your own REUSABLE cleaning pads and cleaning solution. These “hacks” are so simple you’ll be smacking your forehead (like I was!) and uttering that familiar phrase…”Why didn’t I think of that?” I’ll cover both the Swiffer Sweeper and the Swiffer WetJet, starting with the Sweeper.
Sweeper Hacks
Reusable Sweeper Pads
Rather than using the pricey disposable sweeper pads, here’s a DIY alternative that’s infinitely reusable – a fuzzy sock!
Just slip the sock onto the base of your Swiffer, and use it just like you normally would. The fuzzy material works like a charm for picking up dust, dirt, and hair. When you’re done sweeping, you can wash the sock with the rest of your laundry, and use it again and again!
WetJet Hacks
Reusable WetJet Pads
Since I don’t actually have a WetJet at home, I haven’t explored many alternatives for WetJet pads personally. But for the purpose of this post, I wanted to find some alternative options for those of you who do own and use the Swiffer WetJet.
You could try using a fuzzy sock just like with the Sweeper, but for larger mopping jobs you’ll probably need something that’s more absorbent. I think that a microfiber cloth could be a great solution!
So I did a bit of searching, and I actually found a couple of companies online that sell reusable microfiber cleaning pads for the Swiffer WetJet. (I found a 3-pack of reusable cleaning pads for about $15 on Amazon. Sounds like a pretty good deal to me, considering the cost of the disposable ones!)
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But the cleaning pads are only one part of the WetJet equation. What about the pricey bottles of cleaning solution? Read on for a homemade substitute for that cleaning solution, along with instructions for getting it into the special WetJet bottle!
Homemade WetJet Cleaning Solution
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 3-5 drops dish soap
Directions:
Stir all ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
To get your homemade solution into the original WetJet solution bottle, you’ll need to loosen the cap with hot water first.
Bring a small pot of water to a boil on your stovetop, then turn off the heat. Submerge the cap end of the WetJet bottle completely in the hot water, and hold it there for about 90 seconds.
When the soaking time is up, remove the bottle from the water and place a towel or rag over the cap. Twist the cap, and it should come right off!
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Pour the vinegar, water, and soap mixture into the bottle, then replace the cap. Shake the bottle gently to make sure everything is mixed up, and you’re ready to get mopping!
Categories
Homekeeping Cleaning Saving Money