Rating: NNNNN
A quick-change artist from vacuum to steam mop (with machine-washable pad), this compact and lightweight Bissell Flip-It Hard Floor Cleaner ($159.99, Imperial Home Hardware , 2775 Dufferin, 416-783-6119, www. homehardware.ca) is a must when storage space is at a premium.
For serious cordless suction, you can’t beat the Dirt Devil Extreme Power Stick ($69.99, Canadian Tire , 839 Yonge, 416-925-9592, www.canadiantire.ca). With 14.4 volts of rechargeable power, no messy bag to deal with and a fold-down handle for easier storage, it’s got all angles covered. (Also available in a Hepa-filter version.)
If the gross factor is preventing you from cleaning the toilet, thus straining relationships with your roommates, parents or spouse, the Lysol Ready Brush ($8.99, Shoppers Drug Mart , 360 Bloor West, 416-961-2121, www.shoppersdrugmart.ca) is the tool du jour. It comes with storage caddy and features built-in heavy-cleaning foam.
It seemed like a good idea to forgo professional movers and get your 2-4-fuelled friends to move your stuff – and scratch the hell out of your walls while they were at it. Remove all traces of moving, mess or age (even on sinks) with the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Duo ($4.19, Loblaws , 10 Lower Jarvis, 416-304-0611, www.Loblaws.ca).
Creeped out by the idea of dust falling from the ceiling (and into your hair – eew) as you give those cobwebs a one-two with the broom? With the Swiffer Duster with Extendable Handle ($9.97, Zellers , 1245 Dupont, 416-531-5704, www.hbc.ca), particles cling to the electromagnetically charged cloth. Great for blinds and baseboards, too.
