Keeping a home clean and organized can at times seem overwhelming, with stains that won't budge, piles of pet hair everywhere, stubborn streaks, smears, and more. But, help is on the way! This year, we've done the dirty work for you. After testing 200 cleaning and organizing products and appliances, we've found the superstars that perform best, are easiest to use, innovate in ways that wowed us and will save you precious time and energy so you can get on with your life.
Among our picks below, you'll find some new-fangled newcomers along with some trusted tried-and-true favorites, but all have been proven to help make your home a showplace. Meet the 60 winners of the Good Housekeeping's 2026 Cleaning Awards!
Kitchen Time Savers
Stovetops are magnets for splatters; ignore those, and you’re looking at a bigger mess. Weiman’s Cook Top Daily 3-in-1 Cleaner is a quick spray-and-wipe option for day-to-day grease, fingerprints, and fresh spills.
LAB RESULTS: In our tests, it shined up our stainless rangetop in a single pass. It works quickly and without smearing, perfect for that nightly kitchen reset. Testers raved that it did well on their glass cooktops too, reporting a clear, streak-free finish with minimal buffing.
Appliances are an investment, and sadly you don’t always get what you pay for—but you do with Midea’s Top Control dishwasher. It offers high-end upgrades, a sleek design, and great cleaning at a wallet-friendly price.
LAB RESULTS: Where do we begin? This dishwasher has a full stainless steel tub, hidden top controls, and an interior light that makes loading and unloading easier. The adjustable racks allow for flexible placement of large items. It cleaned our charred cookware impressively, and the door opens when it’s done to aid drying.
Even appliances with fingerprint-protective finishes need help when it comes to smudges. Weiman’s Stainless Steel 3-in-1 cleans, shines, and protects with a coating that helps repel dirt and dust.
LAB RESULTS: This spray went on and wiped off easily without leaving streaks or requiring extra buffing. The formula cut through greasy marks and build-up, leaving surfaces visibly shinier. It also helps repel new marks so appliances will need less frequent attention. One tester raved that it erased the sticky prints her kids had left on her fridge.
You may have heard that suds don’t do the cleaning. Well, they do now! Dawn’s Platinum Plus formula puts the bubbles to work trapping and holding grease for better cleaning.
LAB RESULTS: We were amazed that Dawn could have gotten even better. It aced our grease-cutting test, and we even washed stemware after greasy cookware without any streaks or residue. The billowy suds lasted for an entire load of dishes. Testers loved the cap-free, bottom-dispensing design, and so did we. No tilting or fiddling—just start washing.
Stone counters may be durable, but they need TLC to look their best. Rock Doctor’s Granite and Quartz Polish contains carnauba wax to shine and help repel spills, and it’s safe to use on all natural stone surfaces.
LAB RESULTS: This product left our granite test tiles smooth and glowing. We liked how fine the mist was, and we found application and buffing easy. Virtually every tester said it was far better than what they were currently using.
You know how well enzymes work in removing laundry stains. Now Method’s new Super Shine dish soap puts them to work at your kitchen sink too. Protease and amylase enzymes begin dissolving starch and protein residues as soon as your casseroles hit the water, so they need less soaking and scrubbing. And the bottle is made of 100% recycled plastic.
LAB RESULTS: We used Method’s new dish soap to clean away the charred residue left behind by the dishwashers we were testing. We were impressed by how quickly it got our cookware ready for another round and also how crystal clear it left glasses and stemware.
Who says cleaning products have to be ugly and smell bad to work well? Certainly not The Laundress. Its Surface Cleaner’s clear formula, in a clear bottle with an uncluttered label, looks pretty on a countertop. Plus, its scent is amazing and its cleaning impressive.
Lab Results: In our tests it cleaned a greasy glass stovetop without streaking, and we like that it's a 90% USDA Biobased Product. Consumer testers with smitten with the scent, raving, “A little goes a long way, and I loved the scent” and “So calming and clean.”
Cascade has always set the standard for outstanding dishwashing detergent, and its newest formula upholds that tradition. Upgraded enzymes and more surfactants help it do an ever better job dissolving complex protein and starchy residues left behind after tasks like searing meats and baking cheesy casseroles. Plus, it cuts grease and rinses better for less spotting and improved drying.
LAB RESULTS: Cascade had no trouble conquering anything we threw at it, even residue that had been dried on for days. Our consumer testers agreed. It achieved almost a unanimous perfect score and drew comments such as “It’s amazing!” and “The best dishwasher detergent on the market.”
Accessible design makes living at home easier, and now accessible products look better than ever. Cove’s new Panel Ready ADA Height Dishwasher is the perfect example. At only 32.5" high, it can be installed under a low countertop in an accessible kitchen or—with an extended custom panel—under a standard-height counter for a sleek, integrated design.
LAB RESULTS: We’re happy to report that this Cove dishwasher’s cleaning is as beautiful as its looks. We found it very easy to use and load, with lots of flexible rack features and cycle options. Cleaning was excellent even on our lipstick-stained cups, and with multiple drying settings the results were impressive even on plastics.
High-quality dishwashing detergents can be difficult to formulate with plant- and mineral-based ingredients, but Seventh Generation has found a way. Its Free & Clear Triple Action Clean dishwasher packs are a 73% USDA Biobased Product and are made without fragrances, dyes, or chlorine bleach.
LAB RESULTS: The results we got with Seventh Generation’s dishwasher packs blew us away. Everything came out clean, shiny, and dry. One tester raved, “Nothing else comes close to how well these worked in my old, clunky dishwasher!”
Bathroom Grime Busters
Nothing beats a disinfecting wipe for quickly killing germs on faucets, toilet handles, and all the high-touch surfaces in your home. Lysol’s Brand New Day wipes clean and leave behind a refreshing lavender scent.
LAB RESULTS: These large wipes felt substantial in our hands, making it easier to pick up and trap messes than with smaller wipes. Plus, they kill 99.9% of bacteria and cold, flu, and COVID-19 viruses (when used as directed). Testers praised them, saying they left behind a scent that was fresh without being overpowering. One called them their “new choice for disinfecting wipes."
Newer isn’t always better. Clorox’s ToiletWand remains a standout thanks to smart design that combines a wand, cleaning pads, and a storage caddy in one streamlined system.
LAB RESULTS: We’ve featured Clorox’s all-in-one system for years, and it continues to be a favorite for its cleaning and disinfecting prowess; its disposable preloaded scrubbing pads; and its ability to be stored discreetly. We like that the pads snap on securely and can be ejected via a button on the wand so you don’t have to touch them. One tester summed it up: “So easy and hygienic.”
Believe it or not, cleaning the bathroom doesn’t have to be backbreaking work. Casabella’s rechargeable Power Spin Scrubber extends to almost four feet and has a pivoting head and four brush attachments.
LAB RESULTS: In our tests we saw great results with little effort, and it ran for almost two hours on a single charge. It removed heavy grime quickly and cleaned effectively without needing much pressure applied. The cone brush made cleaning in tight corners easy. One tester gushed, “My sinks and shower are sparkling!”
Scrubbing Bubbles’ new Easy Clean Foam clings to nooks and crannies and dissolves grime quickly once sprayed on a surface. It’s safe to use all around the bathroom, and the bottle is made from 100% recycled plastic.
LAB RESULTS: Dried soap scum vanished and a cloudy tub mat turned clear again with little scrubbing. We like that it’s versatile enough to clean multiple bathroom surfaces. Also, its pleasant scent was a hit with testers, with one sharing, “There are so many things I love about this bathroom cleaner. It’s earned a permanent spot in my cleaning caddy!”
Cleaning pastes have more muscle than liquids and require less rinsing than powdered cleansers. Scrub Daddy’s PowerPaste is a gentle clay-based abrasive that is safe to use even on glass shower doors and other delicate surfaces.
LAB RESULTS: PowerPaste and its included Scrub Mommy sponge obliterated sink grime, hard-water stains, and even cooktop crud with minimal scrubbing. The paste spread evenly, rinsed away cleanly, and didn’t leave behind residue or scratches. The tub has a separate compartment for storing the sponge, which helped keep it clean and dry. Testers found it effective, and they liked that it was easy to store.
Cleaning nooks and crannies can be troublesome: Toothbrushes are flimsy and don’t cover much ground, and large scrubbers skip over crevices or don’t fit into narrow spaces. Hoto’s Wand Cordless Scrubber takes the work out of scrubbing and includes an assortment of brushes and heads to tackle any tight spot.
LAB RESULTS: We found this scrubber comfortable to hold and use even for testers with small hands, and it was powerful enough to obliterate stubborn soap scum grime. The brushes and pads attach magnetically, making them supereasy to swap out, and there’s even a little mesh bag in which to store them all. Two speed settings let you control the cleaning intensity.
Almost anyone will tell you that their least favorite chore is cleaning the toilet. Blueland’s Toilet Bowl Cleaning Tablets take the ick out of this messy job. Simply drop one in the bowl, watch it bubble up, and brush. And with the paper pouch and refillable tin, there are no messy plastic bottles to use or store.
LAB RESULTS: In our tests these tablets dissolved fully and left bowls clean and shiny. And unlike other powdered toilet bowl cleaners we've tested, the foam didn't dissipate before we could finish the job. Consumers loved them too, with one raving, “The eucalyptus scent added a spa-like element to our bathroom!”
Laundry Must-Haves
Tide has long been a top performer in GH tests, and this newest upgrade to its original formula doesn’t disappoint. More surfactants and new soil-release technology mean better stain removal (particularly for greasy stains), brighter whites, and deeper cleaning in cold water.
LAB RESULTS: Tide 6X Original liquid worked best of all the detergents we tested on our tough stains, especially grass and chocolate. And it was judged a favorite for its scent in our test of 16 of the best scented laundry detergents. One consumer tester said, “It worked great on grubby work clothes.” and another commented, “Tide is a brand I trust.” That pretty much says it all!
With this combo appliance, clothes go from washing to drying without your needing to lift a finger. This Samsung model is vented for fast drying, stores detergent and softener to eliminate measuring, and can speed through some loads in as little as 68 minutes.
LAB RESULTS: It’s the fastest combination washer-and-dryer appliance we’ve tested, and it gave us great cleaning and drying results on every load. Plus, it’s gentle on fabrics, and the controls are supereasy and intuitive. Luxe features include bulk dispensing of detergent and fabric softener to eliminate measuring, AI wash and dry settings for the best fabric care, app connectivity, and more.
Presoaking is an excellent way to remove especially tough, set-in stains, and it doesn’t get any easier or better than with tried and trusted OxiClean Versatile powder. To tackle everyday messes, just add a scoop to your laundry load. It even works on carpet and upholstery stains.
LAB RESULTS: OxiClean blew other tested products out of the water when we used it to presoak stained swatches before washing, totally obliterating wine, grass, coffee, and gravy stains. Just adding a scoop to a wash load led to noticeable improvement. Consumers said it was easy to use, worked really well, and was a great value. The product that started the whole “oxi” movement is still leading the way!
Garment steamers are fast becoming the favorite way to de-wrinkle clothing, and Conair remains the leader of the pack.
LAB RESULTS: Ready to go in only 35 seconds, this steamer smoothed our crumpled clothing easily and without spitting. Its two steam settings take it quickly from silk to linen, and an eight-ounce water tank gave us more than 15 minutes of steam on the highest setting. We were glad to see a steamer that was both lightweight and powerful. A consumer tester raved, “It heats up faster and de-wrinkles better. We like it significantly more than our previous steamer.”
The primary job of dryer sheets is to zap static, but they also soften and impart scent. These new ones from Bath & Body Works White Barn do all three without the waxy feel and perfume of other sheets.
LAB RESULTS: If you are a Bath & Body Works fan, these new White Barn dryer sheets are worth a try. They didn’t feel slick or slippery even right out of the box, and they left items in our loads static-free and lightly softened. There are eight unique and compelling scents to choose from, and testers told us they preferred the scent of these to that of their usual brands.
Made from cornstarch, Kind Laundry Scent Booster Beads impart fragrance to a wash load without the intense perfumes and synthetic ingredients that often give this category a bad rap.
LAB RESULTS: We were impressed that Kind offers five interesting scent profiles and that each leaves behind just enough scent for you to notice but not enough to knock you over. Each comes in a 100% recyclable cardboard twist-top canister, and testers loved everything about them. The beads dissolved well even in cold water, and the scents were light and pleasing even to testers who usually preferred unscented products. One said she would purchase them again and recommend them to friends and family.
Having sensitive skin usually means forgoing detergent and other laundry products with scent. But with All Sensitive Fresh, you don’t have to miss out on imparting a pleasing fragrance to your clothing. And like the rest if its formula, the fragrance ingredients are nonirritating to skin.
LAB RESULTS: A detergent that cleans well, adds scent, and is gentle to skin—yes, please! In our lab tests, All did an impressive job removing our tough, set-in stains, especially chocolate syrup and wine, and consumer testers concurred. Overall, they found that it cleaned well in all water temperatures, and one remarked, “My husband is very sensitive to fragrance and this detergent didn’t bother him.”
In recent years, cleaners made with plant-based ingredients are not only becoming more popular but doing a better job cleaning too. Puracy’s Stain Remover spray is proof. A 92% USDA Biobased Product, Puracy contains a cocktail of six specialty enzymes to tackle any stain that comes its way. Travel and refill sizes are also available.
LAB RESULTS: Puracy’s performance surpassed that of many traditional formulas on our tough-to-remove stains, especially spaghetti sauce and grass, and testers were pleased too. Most used it successfully on food, dirt, bloodstains, and more. One tester used it to clean her favorite white canvas tennis shoes and said, “They look brand-new!”
High-end washing machines can also be space hogs spreading well beyond the standard 27-inch width. Midea's machine, however, offers a full 4.1 cubic foot capacity tub, has a center agitator, and is only 25-inches wide. Now, those with laundry room space constraints don't have to compromise capacity.
LAB RESULTS: Good looking and feature-rich, this Midea washer cleaned well, handled fabrics gently and was easy to use and load in our tests. High-end perks include auto or manual water level settings, quick wash and tub clean cycles and a see through glass lid, all at an amazingly affordable price.
Dedicated ironers, quilters, crafters, seamstresses, and anyone who loves a perfectly crisp and pressed look will rejoice at Rowenta's Ultimate Steam Pro Steam Station. The large water tank with its built-in boiler pumps out high pressure, on-demand steam for up to 2.5 hours of continuous ironing.
LAB RESULTS: Thoughtfully designed, comfortable to hold, and easy to use, Rowenta continues to set the standard for steam stations. It gave us impressive wrinkle removal results. And we especially appreciate the slide-out water tank that you can take to the sink for easier filling, its ability to steam vertically, and a locking system for easy carrying. Testers were taken with it. too, calling it "A dream machine!"
If you've ever had to dry a family's collection of gloves, hats and boots, you know what a mess it can be when they are scattered everywhere. Hedgehog's innovative hanging dryer system, developed by a dad in Norway, keeps mudrooms, laundry rooms and entryways organized yet functional. Simply slip wet items on each of the rods and choose from five speeds and four temperature settings.
LAB RESULTS: We were intrigued when we first set up the Hedgehog. Sturdier than traditional shoe and boot dryers we've tested, we liked the hanging hook and the built-in safety feature of being able to turn off any rod that wasn't being used. It completely dried our soaked shoes in a few hours and testers saw the same impressive results. "A must-have!" one exclaimed.
If there's any brand that's synonymous with softening fabrics, it's Downy. The liquid inside the classic blue bottle with the pink rose cap has been around for over 65 years and though the formula has been improved and upgraded through the years, it still sets the standard for smoothing, softening, scenting, and protecting fibers and fabrics in the wash.
LAB RESULTS: Downy always tops our softness testing and from consumer testers, we heard comments like, "It removes static better than other products I've tried." and "I love it and will continue to purchase it." In addition, testers noted that it freshened and removed odors, prevented wrinkles, and imparted a long-lasting scent.
Furniture + Floor Specialists
Good things do come in small packages: Bissell has shrunk its viral Little Green portable carpet cleaner to create a mini version that’s perfect for small spaces.
LAB RESULTS: A chip off the old block, this pint-size cleaner has the same features as its bigger sibling and removes stains just as well. Its smaller footprint makes it simple to lift, carry, and tote between rooms. One tester noted that it was "super easy to store and move around."
Swiffer taught us to clean on the go, and after 25 years it has gotten a facelift. This deluxe version has a collapsible telescoping handle, upgraded wet and dry cloths. and a pivoting head that can lock into place for cleaning baseboards and tight spaces.
LAB RESULTS: It’s no secret that we are Swiffer fans, and this one is easier to store than others and cleans dirt and spaces other sweepers can’t. The locking head reached edges, corners, and vertical surfaces that traditional sweepers often miss. Testers echoed our experience, calling it “top-of-the-line” for everyday floor maintenance.
Dealing with dust is a never-ending battle, but Bona’s systems conquer it. Each kit includes either a telescoping duster or a compact one, reusable microfiber and disposable cloths, and a storage bag to keep things contained.
LAB RESULTS: We liked that the kits were versatile, offering multiple cloth options to suit different tasks. The telescoping handle, which has a six-foot reach, made it easier to reach high shelves and ceiling corners without a ladder. The dusters were easy to use and assemble, and testers agreed that the storage bag was a plus.
If properly cared for, leather furniture can last for generations. and few products make caring for treasured leather pieces easier that Weiman Leather Wipes 3-in-1. They not only are convenient to keep handy for a quick wipe-down but also contain ingredients that clean and condition leather and keep it protected from the drying and cracking effects of UV rays.
LAB RESULTS: Perfectly sized for touching up armrests, headrests, cushions, car seats, and more, these wipes removed grime from the grain of our leather pieces and left them supple and with a warm glow. We like that they are handy enough to use on shoes, bags, and jackets too!
Emptying a vacuum dust cup can be, well, messy. Fortunately, our favorite self-emptying cordless stick vac from Samsung saves you the trouble. And with its new AI Ultra model, it just got even better.
LAB RESULTS: This vacuum is stylish and smart too: It can automatically select the best mode for your floors. We got run times of up to 90 minutes depending on the setting, and it did a great job picking up household debris from dust to dried orzo pasta. At the end of each cleaning session, it empties itself into a bag in its tower—wow!
Dreame’s X50 robot vacuum and mop takes a giant leap forward. It scales thresholds of up to 2.3 inches and lowers itself to fit under furniture. The mop pads and brushes extend to reach into corners and under furniture.
LAB RESULTS: The X50 quickly mapped and navigated our test area, and it skirted every obstacle with ease. Setup was a breeze, and it left both carpet and bare floors almost spotless. It has a self-emptying base that doubles as a cleaning and drying station for the mop. One tester called it ”an exceptional machine.”
Homes have different types of floors, and floors have different needs when it comes to cleaning. Whether you’re collecting dry dust and dirt, dissolving sticky grime, or deep cleaning and sanitizing, Tineco’s Floor One S9 Artist Steam is up to the challenge.
LAB RESULTS: This is the first all-in-one floor cleaner we’ve tested that tackles virtually every floor-cleaning task. We love that steam is an option you can select—or not—depending on your floor type and task at hand. It was very easy to use and maneuverable, and its edge-cleaning performance and self-cleaning cycle were impressive. Testers said, “I absolutely love this appliance” and “I’ve been using it every day since I received it!”
Canister vacuums can be clunky and difficult to drag along behind you, but this new Miele Guard L1 AllFloor vacuum is one smooth mover. And it’s noticeably quieter than any other full-size vacuum we’ve tested.
LAB RESULTS: Smartly designed and stylish, this vacuum not only lives up to the Miele name with exceptional cleaning and filtration but also takes a giant leap forward when it comes to convenience. The tools, including a dusting brush integrated into the handle and an upholstery/crevice tool that stores in the rear, are literally at your fingertips. It also sports a sleek LCD display, fabric side panels, and an oversize handle that makes it easy to carry. It’s almost too pretty to hide in a closet!
Useful Organizers
Turn any corner into a storage space with the damage-free Command Triple Hook. It mounts without holes, holds up to 10 pounds, and comes in black, brass, and satin nickel.
LAB RESULTS: We used this stylish, functional hook in our lab to provide a spot to hang clothing when testing garment steamers. It was a game changer! It was easy to mount, and we hang our coats on it when we’re not using it for steamer testing. Testers used it for towels, bags, crafts, and more.
Skylight’s Calendar Max offers an easy way to align family schedules, assign tasks, make lists, and more. It syncs with an app that offers free features and upgraded ones for a fee. Color-coding entries is fun!
LAB RESULTS: We mounted one outside our conference room to track availability, vacations, and other info. We found it intuitive and easy to navigate and program. It comes in various frame finishes and in two smaller sizes if wall mounting isn’t an option.
Transform a closet into a dream with this Elfa Decor+ system from The Container Store. Classic components have been upgraded to stronger steel with solid birch trim and drawer fronts; LED lighting gives it a luxe look and feel.
LAB RESULTS: Our tester praised this system for its quality and customization, noting that it could be rearranged as storage needs changed. It made efficient use of available space while maintaining a sleek, polished appearance. Pieces come individually or as predesigned spaces, and components start as low as $3. Pro installation is smart option if you are not handy.
Epson's RapidReceipt Scanner takes the work out of dealing with paperwork. Able to scan up to 35 pages per minute, it captures both sides of a sheet and is great for organizing receipts, invoices, policies, and any other papers that have been piling up.
LAB RESULTS: Scans are searchable, editable, exportable, and readable. Testers liked the compact design, and they all agreed that the machine worked quietly and the scans were high-quality. One raved, "It made a chore I'd been dreading really easy!"
If pumps, sandals, flats, and more are littering the floor of your closet, Gorilla Grip's Over-the-Door Organizer will help rescue those lost soles. Well made with 24 breathable mesh pockets, it is easy to hang and holds up to 40 lbs.
LAB RESULTS: We found the mesh pockets easier to fill than plastic ones and liked that it also would work to organize toys, toiletries, and other items beyond shoes. Fans said it was "well made and sturdy" and had "nice fabric"
Consoles fill up fast, and loose items in a car can slide everywhere when you come to a sudden stop. High Road’s CarHop Jr. caddy keeps drinks, snacks, and more contained and accessible.
LAB RESULTS: We liked that this organizer was roomy and easy to set up and that it folded flat for storage. It is simple to wipe clean and stays securely in place thanks to a soft anchor that tucks under the seat back. One tester said, “I wish I'd had this years ago!”
Outdoor Standouts
Cleaning doesn’t stop at your doorstep: Porches and patios need sweeping, and ZoomBroom is on it. Compact and cordless, it’s built for fast cleanups and eliminates the need to drag out heavier equipment.
LAB RESULTS: This lightweight, rechargeable repeat winner was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver. Two speed settings allowed for quick passes or more controlled airflow, and the battery ran for up to 30 minutes per charge. It was much faster than a traditional broom. For one tester, it was “a major time saver!”
Cleaning a grill can be messy and time-consuming. The Q-Swiper’s fast-acting spray works in just two minutes and comes with a dishwasher-safe scrubbing cloth for brush-free cleaning.
LAB RESULTS: Our grill masters loved this stuff and were amazed at how fast it worked to melt away what other cleaners left behind. Testers were especially impressed by how little dwell time was needed to see results, making post-cooking cleanup far less of a chore. The included cloth allowed for effective scrubbing. “The best I’ve used, and safer than a brush,” said one tester.
Having a pool is a blast, but cleaning it is another story. Beatbot’s AquaSense 2 Ultra pool robot uses an AI camera and infrared and ultrasonic sensors to map your pool, detect debris, and plan efficient cleaning paths.
LAB RESULTS: This robot awed our pool-owning testers, who were impressed by how thoroughly it cleaned. It handled the water line, floor, and walls in one run and parked itself on the surface when done. The app proved user-friendly, and emptying the debris basket was easy. Bye-bye, pool boy.
Regular wipes make outdoor cleanup easy but aren’t always up to the job. Crocodile Cloth’s extra large PowerScrub premoistened wipes have an abrasive side to scrub and scour, while the other is smooth to polish and absorb.
LAB RESULTS: We cleaned grills, patio furniture, tools, and more with amazing results, and our hands didn’t feel dry or irritated. Testers noted that these wipes didn’t leave behind streaks or excess residue. One summed it up: “I’ll be buying more of these.”
Ecovacs’ Winbot window-washing robot takes a dirty job off your to-do list by cleaning glass surfaces that are hard to reach. Designed for hands-off cleaning, it brings automation to window care.
LAB RESULTS: We set the Winbot loose on our Lab windows and it left them clean and streak-free, even in the corners. It moved methodically across the glass and stayed securely in place during use. It makes maps of windows, allowing you to select problem areas for deeper cleaning or designate custom cleaning paths. Its portable Omni station combines power, controls, and storage into one compact hub. One petite tester said she had ditched her stepstool!
Sometimes the trickiest spots to clean aren't in the house at all. Dyson's Car + Boat Handheld Vacuum brings the performance of its well-known stick vacs to a more portable version for cleaning vehicles.
LAB RESULTS: This little powerhouse boasts strong suction, superior filtration, and a run time long enough to tackle your auto’s upholstery, trunk, and floor mats in a single session, nabbing crumbs, pet hair, and more. It comes with three attachments instead of the usual one or two, including a mini motorized fabric tool, a crevice tool, and a combination brush. Testers praised it too, with one saying, “It had no issues keeping a charge to complete the job.”
Perfect Problem Solvers
Price tags, tape residue, stickers, even wax from drippy candles can be virtually impossible to remove once they weld themselves to household surfaces. That’s where Goo Gone comes in. It’s the go-to goo and adhesive remover, and its spray gel form makes it easy to apply with less mess.
LAB RESULTS: We like that the citrus-based gel formula clings to the goo while it’s working and that it’s safe to use on both hard and soft surfaces such as carpets and clothing. After it worked, we found that it washed away easily without causing damage. Consumer testers loved it too; it even removed crayon marks from a painted wall without damage. No home should be without it.
If you are a bar soap user, you know what a mess a wet, drippy bar can leave in a soap dish or on a counter or tub ledge. But here’s an easy solution: Simply press the SoapStandle ring into the bottom of a bar to give it a little lift. Once it is elevated, air circulates around it, and the bar and the surface can dry. No more drips, soap slime, or goo!
LAB RESULTS: We were amazed that this little plastic ring could make such a difference. And not only does it keep soap dishes and surfaces cleaner, but it also makes the soap bar easier to grip and helps it last longer, and you can simply transfer the device from bar to bar. Consumer testers were sold on it, calling it “intelligent and attractive design” and “a game changer.”
Silver is beautiful to look at—until it’s not. Tarnish is tiresome to remove, and polishes can be messy or harsh or do nothing to delay re-tarnishing. Hope’s Silver Polish has milder ingredients that work, doesn’t require rinsing, and helps keep pieces looking shiny longer.
LAB RESULTS: Hope’s left our discolored silverware glowing and worked quickly and without irritating fumes. We found it pleasant to use, and so did our testers. They polished serving pieces, jewelry, and more and gave us feedback like “I saw a difference quickly” and “It’s easy to use and not as messy as other options.”
When mold and mildew show up on surfaces, you want them gone fast. That’s exactly what 30 Seconds Professional Mold & Mildew Stain Remover makes happen. Simply spray, let sit, rinse, and watch stains disappear —without scrubbing. It can be used on both indoor and outdoor surfaces.
LAB RESULTS: We cleaned a mold-covered section of a garage wall and couldn’t believe our eyes; after just a few minutes, the stains vanished without scrubbing. Consumers used it both indoors and outside, and one said, “It worked well all over.”
Water bottles, blender bottles, and travel coffee mugs are notoriously hard to clean, especially in the area near the bottom, and a bottle brush can do only so much. EcoBrites Tablets remove stains and freshen with citric acid and other ingredients without the need for scrubbing.
LAB RESULTS: Simply fill your vessel with hot water, drop in a tablet, and let it bubble up and go to work. The longer you leave it, the deeper the clean. We used it on tea-stained ceramic mugs and it removed discoloration that the dishwasher didn’t budge. Dropped into a bowl of water, a tablets can be used to clean lids and other intricate parts too. From testers we received feedback like “Did not leave an aftertaste” and “A hands-off cleaning approach, and extremely easy to use!”
Pet Solutions & Air Fresheners
Clinging pet hair is a pain, but Maytag’s Pet Pro Laundry System works to fix this sticky situation. Extra water and a deep rinse in the washer and then a long, cool misted cycle in the dryer help release and remove pet hair from fabrics and funnel it into easy-to-empty Pet Pro filters.
LAB RESULTS: The washer in this set had great soil-removal scores and was gentle on fabric, and its spin cycle was excellent at removing excess water from clothing. The dryer handled our laundry load without overheating the clothes. While these appliances aced our standard cleaning and drying tests, the way they handled pet hair really wowed us: Not a strand escaped them.
Pets can leave behind both stains and odors. Mrs. Meyer’s Cleaner features a USDA bio-based formula and is certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. It uses active probiotics and odor neutralizers to clean and freshen floors, crates, and other hard surfaces.
LAB RESULTS: Probiotic cleaners continue to work deep in nooks and crannies for days. In our tests, this spray cleaned grease and grime from surfaces well. Testers raved that it nixed foul odors and loved its orange blossom scent.
Many vacuums claim to conquer pet hair, but not all do. Bissell’s new FurGuard cordless stick vacuum finds pesky pet hair wherever it hides.
LAB RESULTS: One of the best stick vacs we tested, it cleaned well and gobbled up 18-inch-long hair strands with no tangling. Also boasting bright headlights, a FurFinder upholstery tool, and a sealed HEPA filter system, it’s a pet owner’s dream machine. Testers agreed, with one saying, “I absolutely love the FurFinder tool attachment” and another raving, “It does an excellent job picking up pet fur!”
A purifier is a must for clean indoor air. GermGuardian features a cloth prefilter, a true HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter, and a UV-C light.
LAB RESULTS: This air purifier did best in our 30-minute test, filtering 99.6% of 2.5-micron particles! And its HEPA filter traps tinier particles. It is compact and has 10 speeds; testers noted how quiet it was.
Say goodbye to icky scooping and stinky litter boxes. The self-cleaning Litter-Robot 5 Pro adjusts to the mess for better clumping and odor control. Cameras track your cat’s habits, and there’s an easy-to-use and informative display.
LAB RESULTS: Testers in one and multi-cat households commented that this robot's cleaning cycles were effective and quiet. They also called it roomy and a worthy upgrade. One kitty was captivated!
Adding scent to your home can be tricky—some are too strong, others too faint. With Febreze’s Plug Scent Booster, you control the level, and there’s a button to up the scent emitted for 40 minutes.
LAB RESULTS: This Febreze was a breeze to use, and one refill lasted for up to 50 days without fading. We liked that there was the option to add more scent when needed. Testers were smitten too.
How We Test
First and foremost, cleaning and organizing products must perform well on their intended tasks. But that's only the beginning. That's why when we're testing our award candidates, our experts also consider factors like how easy the products are to use, dispense, or assemble and we ask our consumer testers to do the same. We review and assess owner's manuals and labeling. We want to know how well the packaging holds up and if a product is neat and easy to store. And while each product category has its own unique criteria, innovation is something we look for in all the products we consider. We spent 8 months testing our 200 submissions in 67 categories, evaluating items both in our Cleaning Lab and in the homes of consumer testers. Here's what we looked at when choosing our winners.
Cleaning Performance & Stain Removal
We're on the lookout for the laundry detergents that remove stains, silver polishes that melt away tarnish, dish liquids that cut grease, and more. To find our winners, we're not afraid to get our hands and test surfaces dirty to simulate the everyday messes that seem to happen so naturally in our homes. This year, we applied and rated 300 stains and washed 53 loads of laundry and dishes.
Ease of Use
Sure a product can work well, but if it isn't easy to use, you won't use it often. We evaluate things like how easy a dishwasher is to load, how smooth a dryer's lint filter is to remove and replace, how comfortable a garment steamer is to hold, and how easily a vacuum's dust cup snaps back into place. For cleaning products, we make sure the package is sturdy, doesn't leak, and the product can be used, dispensed and stored neatly.
Standard Testing Scores
For categories where manufacturers have agreed-on standardized test protocols, we follow them for our testing. For washing machines, we launder pre-stained fabric strips to assess cleaning and we place swatches with pre-cut holes throughout each load to judge a cycle's gentleness. For vacuum cleaners, we spread a pre-weighed mix of sand, baking soda, oatmeal, and dried orzo pasta onto a floor and weigh how much each vacuum picks up to calculate cleaning performance. Each submitted product within a category is tested exactly same way to assure accuracy and fairness.
Innovation
The best and most exciting award winners are the products that boast new and noteworthy upgrades and innovations. We're on the lookout for new features, new technologies, new formulations, new packaging, and anything we haven't seen before that sets a product apart from the competition. We award companies for thinking outside of the box and finding unique and innovative ways to address the cleaning problems and issues consumers didn't even know they had.
Feedback From Experts
Sure, the GH Cleaning Lab knows a thing or two about cleaning, but our other GH Institute lab experts get in on the action, too. We ask staffers to participate in panel tests to evaluate a fabric softener's ability to soften towels and how well laundry scent beads impart scent. Submissions like air purifiers go to our Home Improvement Lab for review and tech gadgets, like document scanners, get scrutinized by our Tech & Engineering Lab.
Special Features & Claims
We pay close attention to any new features or claims our candidate products may have or be making. For vacuums that claim to have tangle-free brush rolls, we spread extra long hair strands onto carpeting. For a washer's speed or quick cycle, we want to know not only how fast it washes, but how well it cleans. If an air freshener says it will last for up to 60 days, we monitor and assess its performance every day until its done. Our winners must live up to the marketing claims they are making.
Labeling & Packaging
Just as important to us as how a product performs is how clearly, accurately, and responsibly it's labeled. We check the usage directions, cautionary statements, first aid instructions, and more to make sure they are thorough and follow required labeling protocols based on the ingredients contained. Any products making greenwashing claims are eliminated. And any packages that leak, break, or don't dispense well are nixed.
Consumer Tester Insights
Key to our awards assessment is what consumers think of the submissions. Once we recruit consumer testers and match them with requested products, the fun begins. Samples are then sent to consumers across the country. (We had 798 consumer testers to be exact!) Each tester completes a survey on every product providing honest feedback on what they liked, didn't like, performance, product attributes and more. We calculate an overall consumer score and to be a winner, a product must perform well in our lab tests and be a hit with our consumers.
Meet Our Experts
Carolyn Forté
Home Care & Cleaning Executive Director
Carolyn brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. With her deep product and industry expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces and oversees the advice, product reviews, and media engagement in the cleaning space for GH, including all facets of the Cleaning Awards program.
Noah Pinsonnault
Home Care & Cleaning Reviews Analyst
Noah works as a product reviews analyst in our Home Care & Cleaning Lab where he helps design and perform tests on various product categories. He draws on scientific expertise to develop protocols for testing a wide variety of cleaning products and appliances. For these awards, Noah performed all the testing on robot vacuums, washers and clothes dryers, and managed sample procurement, consumer test assignments and coordination with consumers and the brands.
Kyra Bennington
Home Care & Cleaning Contributor
Kyra is a freelance analyst in the Home Care & Cleaning Lab. After receiving a Bachelor of Science in Urban Sustainability from CUNY: Brooklyn College, she worked for a sustainably-made lighting and upholstery brand. Kyra analyzed and tested many of the cleaning products and appliances for this Cleaning Awards program. She also helped tabulate and organize results and coordinate feedback from our consumer testers.
Alec Scherma
Alec helps create and implement new product testing methodologies across home, cooking, cleaning, wellness, tech products and more. He graduated from Drexel University’s College of Engineering with a B.A. in mechanical engineering. Alec has a hand in most of our awards programs and specifically for Cleaning Awards he reviewed and tested our air purifier submissions.
Olivia Lipski
Senior Reviews Writer & Analyst
Olivia covers tech, home, auto, appliances, health and more and has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovations and, prior to joining Good Housekeeping, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. For our Cleaning Awards, Olivia helps us by evaluating document and receipt scanners and other electronic devices that are submitted to help clean up and organize paperwork.
