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sponges can harbor dangerous bacteria, which is why it's important to replace them regularly. While the experts recommend you should replace them once a week, you can clean them with bleach to make them last longer. Do this by mixing 3/4 cup of bleach in one gallon of water and soak the sponge for five minutes. Make sure to rinse well after.

Replace: Once a week
Clean: Rinse after every use

Mopping the floor is a great way to keep your home looking clean, but it will mean that the mop head will collect bacteria over time. While you should rinse the head after every use, it's also recommended you replace it every two months.

Replace: Every two months
Clean: Rinse after every use

Much like sponges, cleaning rags (or pieces of old cloth) can also collect dirt, grime and bacteria. If you can, pop yours in the washing machine regularly to keep it clean. Don't forget to air dry it to prevent it from having a damp odor.

Replace: Every two months
Clean: Weekly

"The gloves you wear for washing up or scrubbing the toilet should last a long time if cared for. Clean gloves with warm water and soap after every use – and only replace after signs of degradation," says the team.

Replace: After showing signs of wear
Clean: After every use

Brushes tend to last longer than sponges, but they still get worn over time. These will need to be replaced when you notice the bristles thinning.

Replace: After showing signs of wear
Clean: Weekly

Well-made will last years, especially if they are taken care of well. If yours no longer works it's always best to check with the manufacturer first. You might find just one or two parts will need replacing, instead of the entire vacuum.

Replace: Years, with regular maintenance
Clean: Replace bags and clean suction nozzles as needed

Microfiber cleaning cloths are a great alternative to cloth dusters as they generally last longer. Like any cloths, they also need to be cleaned regularly and should be popped into the washing machine once a week.

Replace: After showing signs of wear
Clean: Weekly

"Just like with plastic brushes, brooms will last a long time – possibly longer than any other cleaning essential you own," explains the team.

Over the years, you may notice the bristles beginning to thin down, so this could mean it's a good time to replace your broom.

Replace: Years, with regular maintenance
Clean: Shake and clean after every use

While making your own homemade cleaning products is a great way to save money and cut back on single-use plastic, the solutions themselves don't often last as long as shop-bought ones. The team add: "Remember, they don't have long-term preservative chemicals so are more likely to degrade and become less effective over time.

"A great tip is to only make enough for the cleaning task ahead, or for a few days’ worth if you plan on using the mix continually (wiping the kitchen side for example)."

Replace: Discard after each use
Clean: Wipe containers after every use

"Store bought cleaning supplies do have expiration dates and improper storage, which can cause them to be less effective. Typically, you will not have to change store bought cleaning supplies often, an expiration date can be anywhere from 6 months to two years, so always check the labels.'

Replace: Check the expiration date
Clean: Wipe containers after every use