25 Household Hacks That Make Cleaning A Breeze

Cleaning frequency depends on lifestyle and can feel like a looming task. There’s always a lot of cleaning to be done but with limited time and little desire to spend hours scrubbing after work, an efficient solution is needed. Thankfully, results can be achieved without dedicating hours and using ingredients already on hand, avoiding the need to buy more eco-friendly cleaning products. Here are some tried and tested tips to get you going.

Designer: Roborock

1. Refresh Microwave with Steam

Image courtesy of: leungchopan

Steam-clean your microwave by placing a bowl of lemon juice inside and microwaving it for 2 minutes, or until the lemon juice boils. This trick generates steam that helps loosen any residue clinging to the microwave walls. Afterward, wipe down the interior with a cloth, leaving behind a refreshing citrus aroma.

2. Eliminate Wine Stains on Carpets

Image courtesy of: gcpics

Although wine stains can pose a challenge, there’s a solution with club soda. Start by spraying the stain with club soda, then gently blot it with a microfiber cloth. Repeat this procedure until the stain disappears. Note that rubbing alcohol, clear vodka, and even white wine can be utilized for this cleaning technique.

3. Clean your Ceiling Fan Using a Pillowcase

To clean fans, cover each blade with a pillowcase and wipe. This ensures dust is collected inside the pillowcase instead of settling on your furniture and floors.

4. Clean Blinds with Socks

Image courtesy of: marshmallowbela

Start by placing an old sock on one hand and lightly moistening it with water. Next, grasp each blind panel and glide your hand covered with the sock along the length of the slats, effectively removing dust from both sides.

5. Remove Water Marks with Shaving Cream

Image courtesy of: SkloStudio

Remove water stains from shower glass effectively using shaving cream. Simply apply the shaving cream, let it sit for 15 minutes, then wipe it off.

6. Shine with Lemon Oil and Vinegar

Image courtesy of: LightFieldStudios

Woodwork and wooden furnishings accumulate dust and dirt with time, requiring regular cleaning to maintain their shine. For an eco-friendly and shiny cleaning hack, combine equal parts lemon oil and white vinegar.

7. Eliminate Hard Water Stains

Image courtesy of: Vailery

Remove hard water stains by soaking paper towels in undiluted vinegar, placing them on the buildup overnight, then scrubbing and rinsing.

8. Use Microfiber Dusters

Image courtesy of: towfiqu98

Clean efficiently with microfiber products, which use an electrostatic charge to attract and hold dust. They outperform traditional methods like dry rags and feather dusters. Machine-washable and reusable, they save money over disposable options. Air dry them for continued softness, and avoid bleach or fabric softener to maintain effectiveness.

9. Polish Surfaces Using Olive Oil

Image courtesy of: hannievanbaarle

Buff surfaces, such as stainless-steel pots, pans, and appliances, with olive oil applied on a soft cloth in circular motions to effectively clean and polish them.

10. Freshen your Garbage Disposal with Lemons

Image courtesy of: ThamKC

Freshen and cleanse your garbage disposal by using lemons or limes. Given the regular dirty work it handles, maintaining cleanliness and preventing clogs is crucial. Simply cut the citrus fruit into quarters, and with the water running, insert the pieces one by one into the disposal.

11. Use Rubber Gloves to Eliminate Pet Hair

Image courtesy of: karmanovalive

To tackle pet hair that your regular vacuum may miss, opt for rubber gloves, which effectively gather remaining hair when rubbed against fabric due to their elasticity. Simply slide them on, rub down areas needing extra cleaning, and then rinse the gloves under running water to remove the collected hair.

12. Freshen Upholstery

Image courtesy of: towfiqu98

Banish unpleasant odors from upholstery by blending vinegar, water, and a preferred essential oil like lavender. Pre-test the solution on a hidden spot for colorfastness before applying it to the rest of the upholstery, as it often retains odors. If safe, spray the mixture on the remaining upholstery, then vacuum once dry.

13. Clean the Mattress

Image courtesy of: friends_stock

Refresh your mattress by combining baking soda and vinegar. Spray vinegar on the mattress, sprinkle with baking soda, cover with a towel, and let sit for one to two hours before vacuuming. Another method that can be used for mattress cleaning is to employ a garment steamer to thoroughly treat the top, sides, and box springs, eliminating dust mites. Follow up with your vacuum’s upholstery tool to remove deceased mites. Address stains with a carpet and upholstery cleaner, ensuring not to over-wet the mattress.

14. Clean the Gadgets

Image courtesy of: towfiqu98

Utilize damp microfiber cloths to clean shared tech like TV remotes, keyboards, and game controllers, followed by disinfectant-treated cloths for germs. Make sure to keep surfaces wet for 5 minutes, then wipe dry with a microfiber cloth. Repeat twice weekly. For keyboard crevices, tap gently and use a folded sticky note to remove stubborn dirt

15. Clean the Grout

Image courtesy of: AtlasComposer

Clean grimy grout by making a paste of baking soda and water, applying it with an old toothbrush, spraying vinegar over it to create a bubbling mixture, scrubbing with a brush or old electric toothbrush head, and rinsing tiles well with water afterward.

16. Cut the Dirt

Image courtesy of: Andy_Dean_Photog

To keep dirt out of the house, use a high-quality dirt-trapping doormat. Regularly shake it outside and vacuum it weekly. Check if it’s machine washable, but be cautious as some mats may be heavy when wet.

17. Sparkling Clean Windows

Image courtesy of: Tatiana_Mara

Achieve sparkling windows by spraying a solution of one part distilled white vinegar to nine parts water onto the glass and wiping it with a lint-free cloth. Then, use a chamois leather or glass polishing microfiber cloth to buff them to a brilliant shine.

18. Use Soda Crystals

Soda crystals are versatile cleaners, useful for deodorizing washing machines, removing burnt-on residue from pans, keeping sinks and drains fresh, and clearing moss and algae from patios. To unclog plugholes and drains, pour in half a cup of soda crystals followed by boiling water, but remember to wear gloves as they can irritate the skin.

19. Use Lemon to Clean the Cutting Board

Image courtesy of: BLACKDAY

To freshen up your wooden cutting board, sprinkle salt on it and scrub it with half a lemon. Rinse and repeat if necessary for a clean board.

20. Refresh your Refrigerator

Image courtesy of: davidpereiras

Freshen up your refrigerator with the aroma of coffee. Just place dry ground coffee in a bowl inside the fridge. The coffee grounds will absorb any unpleasant odors, keeping your fridge smelling clean and fresh.

21. Scrub your Cast Iron with a Potato

Image courtesy of: AtlasComposer

Clean your cast-iron skillet with a potato. Sprinkle salt inside, then use a halved potato to scrub in circles. Rinse and dry.

22. Clean the Coffee Maker

Image courtesy of: evgrafovasa

Clean your coffee maker with vinegar. Fill the chamber with equal parts vinegar and water, then run the machine. Flush with water afterward. Repeat until clean.

23. Renew Cloudy Glasses

Image courtesy of: magone

Restore clarity to cloudy glasses by soaking them in white vinegar for five minutes to dissolve hard-water mineral buildup. Hand rinse and dry with a microfiber cloth for sparkling results

24. Make an All-Purpose Cleaner

Image courtesy of: tenkende

Create a versatile kitchen cleaner with this homemade recipe. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda with one quart of warm water in a spray bottle. Apply to surfaces and wipe away messes with a sponge. Rinse with a damp cloth if necessary.

25. Clean your Sponge

Image courtesy of: larisikstefania

Keep your sponge bacteria-free by microwaving it for 30 seconds or running it through the dishwasher. Remember to let it cool before use.

The post 25 Household Hacks That Make Cleaning A Breeze first appeared on Yanko Design.

How to Create a Dust-Free Home

Dust particles originate from various sources like dirt, pollen, mold spores, dead skin cells, pet dander, hair, and fabric fibers alongside airborne pollutants from the outdoors. For those dealing with asthma, allergies, or respiratory issues, knowing how to eliminate airborne dust is crucial, as it can significantly enhance their health and overall well-being. Hence, if you are finding your home dusty, here are some tips that will save you from hours of cleaning and help you reduce the dust levels in your home.

1. Clean with a Microfiber Cloth

Designer: Sobby

Microfiber cloth is one of the best options because it has both positively and negatively charged fibers on its surface which attracts dust and dirt as you wipe. Note that microfiber cloth can remove nearly 99% of surface bacteria and is safe to use because you only need water and chemicals to clean with it. Opt for premium quality microfiber cloths, make sure they are damp after use, and rinse them after each use.

2. Close the Windows

Designer: Universal Windows Direct

Opening windows briefly for fresh air can lead to increased dust indoors. Dust, carried in through doors and windows via pollen, mold spores, and airborne pollutants, accumulates visibly on windowsills. To reduce this issue, keep windows closed, especially during windy days.

3. Invest in an Air Purifier

Designer: Instant Home (Image courtesy of Jar of Lemons)

Air purifiers work by purifying the surrounding air through air filtration and capture particles like dust, pollen, and toxins. Most of the air purifiers incorporate a fan for air circulation and are available in various shapes and sizes. Install an air purifying unit for the entire home or go for a portable unit for a single room.

Designer: Yoonsang Kim of Mosslab

At a glance, Moss Air resembles a miniature terrarium, yet it distinguishes itself effortlessly. With its predominantly white body, transparent front, and sleek, slender design, it effortlessly complements any desk, coffee table, or bedside drawer—essentially anywhere you desire a breath of fresh air and an aesthetically pleasing view. The visible moss filter introduces a welcome touch of green to contemporary living spaces, while its invigorating scent transports you to the tranquil ambiance of a fresh forest during the early morning hours.

4. Use A Vacuum Cleaner

Designer: Shark

For a home free from dust, opt for a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, as it effectively traps dirt, allergens, dust mites, pollen, and mold within the filter bag instead of releasing them back into the air. Vacuuming at least once a week is recommended, and consider more frequent vacuuming in high-traffic areas. Make sure to vacuum the furniture, drapes, mattress, and blinds to achieve the most comprehensive dust removal.

Designer: Roman Riazantsev

This vertical vacuum cleaner concept seamlessly blends a traditional silhouette with modern, futuristic touches. While resembling a classic vacuum with its wide head and robust midsection, its sleek, modular design features smooth surfaces. Specific elements, like the spacecraft-inspired head with three LED lights for improved visibility in dark spaces, contribute to its sci-fi vibe. Its transparent section and white-and-black color scheme enhance the futuristic aesthetic.

Designers: Ivo Erichsen and Tobbias Bihlmeyer

Standing at approximately 45cm in height, this versatile device serves as a functional piece of furniture in the home, doubling as a side table or even a stool. Internally, aside from the vacuum cleaner’s motor, all components are crafted from biodegradable plastic. The cork storage container features interchangeable lids made from darkened ash, allowing it to transform into a chair. The vacuum itself is a cylindrical bagless model, suitable for thorough cleaning sessions, and can be easily repurposed for different uses.

Designer: SwitchBot

The K10+ robot vacuum rivals flagship models, featuring high suction, wet/dry cleaning, smart functions, auto navigation, customizable no-go zones, a quiet motor, and a 4L dustbin doubling as a charging station. Its compact design ensures efficient navigation in tight spaces. With a potent 2500Pa vacuum and SwitchBot’s SilenTech tech, it operates at a quiet 48 decibels, significantly quieter than conventional vacuums.

5. Wash the Bed Sheets

Designer: Sheet Society

Periodically wash your sheets as they contribute to a dusty home, as bedding has the tendency to accumulate dead skin cells and creates an ideal environment for dust mites. Wash bedsheets and pillowcases at least once a month. In case there are pets, the sheets should be washed every 3 or 4 days. Blankets, comforters, and mattress pads should be washed every month, while the pillows and mattresses should be cleaned every season.

6. Remove the Carpet

Designer: Couture Luxury

Consider switching to hard-surface flooring like wood, tile, stone, or vinyl during redecoration, as carpets harbor and release dust with each step, making maintenance easier.

7. Damp Wipe the Floor

Designer: Rubbermaid

A thorough damp mopping and dusting can eliminate around 90 percent of the dust in your home, and plain water is one of the most environmentally friendly cleaning agents available. A damp rag or mop captures and retains dust, easily rinsed down the drain.

8. Install a Humidifier

Designer: Blackbrdstore

Static electricity accumulates in dry indoor environments, attracting and stubbornly clinging dust to surfaces. The remedy involves installing a humidifier, whether it’s a whole-house system or a smaller version for individual rooms. Maintaining relative humidity levels between 40 to 50 percent throughout your home is ideal to reduce static and minimize dust accumulation.

Designer: Gahyun Kim

SOT is a unique humidifier that employs a distinctive and almost whimsical approach to directional spray. Essentially, it dispenses humidity upward, but the nozzle is designed to be rotated and adjusted in a specific direction, allowing the steam to be released at a chosen angle. Unlike automatic rotation, the user has the freedom to manually direct the output wherever desired.

9. Eliminate Clutter

Designer: Avenue Interior Design

One of the easiest ways to prevent the accumulation of dust is by reducing the number of surfaces that can get dusty as different display items can function as dust magnets. Declutter the home once in a while and primarily focus on de-cluttering tabletops, bookshelves, and desks. Periodically deep clean the home and eliminate items that are not required.

10. Remove Shoes

Designer: Damn Good Doormats

Various debris clings to the bottoms of your shoes. To prevent bringing outside dust and dirt into your home, consider having yourself and guests leave shoes at the door. Keep a separate pair of slippers for the indoors.

11. Keep a Doormat

Designer: Wayfair

One of the major contributors of dust is the dirt on the soles of people’s shoes when entering the house. Hence it is important to have a doormat with bristles at the entrance of the house and periodically vacuum clean it. Make sure everyone wipes their shoes before entering the house to prevent the entry of dirt.

12. Pet Grooming

Designer: HappyDogz

Dead skin cells and shed hair constitute a significant origin of dust, and regrettably, our beloved furry companions tend to generate a substantial amount of hair. Maintain a regular grooming routine for your pets to prevent the accumulation of dead skin and hair in your living space. As a positive outcome, both you and your pets will experience an improved sense of well-being.

13. Clean the Plants

Designer: Delineate Your Dwelling

Houseplants accumulate a significant amount of dust, which is detrimental to both health and their ability to absorb sunlight through leaf surfaces. Employ a microfiber cloth to remove dust from the large leaves.

The post How to Create a Dust-Free Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

How the revolutionary SwitchBot S10 robot offers 100% hands-free and stress-free floor cleaning

Robot vacuum cleaners and mops all promise to relieve you from the stress of doing chores, but most of them only automate one part of the cleaning process. Yes, you don’t have to vacuum, sweep, or mop the floors yourself, but you still need to actually clean the robot’s parts on your own. Worse, you have to also drain the dirty water from the station’s tank, as if taking out the dustbin wasn’t unsanitary already. Futurists and visionaries would have us imagine a life where these intelligent machines could work with almost no human intervention at all. That might sound like a distant future and a pipe dream, but with the SwitchBot S10’s fully automated operations, that dream has finally become reality, bringing that ideal future to the present.

Designer: SwitchBot

Click Here to Buy Now: $899 $1199 ($300 off). Hurry, only 828/1000 left! Raised over $680,000.

The world’s first easy-to-install cleaning robot that can refill and drain itself.

Automatically Refills Water & Adds Cleaning Solution – Need to mop the floor but S10 doesn’t have enough water? All it needs to do is take a quick visit to the Water Station to refill.

Self-drains to Prevent Bad Smells – S10 will automatically take all that yucky, mucky water and dispense it through the drainage system built into its Water Station, preventing bad smells from stagnant water.

Robot vacuum cleaners have long graduated from just sucking up dirt to also wiping the floors, but there’s still much to be desired when it comes to effortless and stress-free floor cleaning. It was only recently that these automated machines would clean their own mops, but it still required humans to empty out the tank of dirty water and refill the clean tank for its next use. That’s where the SwitchBot S10’s biggest innovation comes in, removing even that dirty work off your chores list. With one pipe connected to fresh clean water and another connected to your sewage drain, this fully automated floor-cleaning robot can drain the dirty water and refill itself with clean water all on its own.

Get Started in Just 3 Steps – Anyone can install S10 at home, and takes on average just 5 minutes to get going.

Place S10 Anywhere with a Water Supply – The Water Station provided is able to share the water supply of your dishwasher or washing machine through the three-way accessories we provide.

Installing the Water Station is nothing to fret about either. Using the three-way accessory provided by SwitchBot, it can share the water supply of your washing machine or dishwasher. And even if you don’t have these appliances, you use SwitchBot’s special water pipes to easily connect the station to your house’s plumbing system. Even better, this Water Station is powered by the SwitchBot S10 itself, so you don’t have to worry about having a power cable precariously near some water supply.

Powerful Real-Time Self-cleaning – S10 adopts a built-in self-cleaning Roller Mop and separate clean and dirty water tank.

Because the Roller Mop self-cleans in real time, dirt doesn’t stick to the mop and the mop is cleaner after washing.

Deep Self-clean – The water outlet speed will increase 10x and Roller Mop speed will increase by 30%, ensuring that the mop remains in its optimal state at all times.

This self-draining and self-refilling capability is just the tip of the iceberg of what makes the SwitchBot S10 the ultimate cleaning tool. The robot can also clean itself while it’s mopping, spraying its unique Roller Mop with clean water and removing wastewater in real time so that it doesn’t drag dirt and stains across your floor. And, after it has finished its mopping chores, it goes back to the Water Station for a more thorough cleaning, and then get the Roller Mop dried at the Auto-Empty Station to keep it free of bacteria, germs, and mold.

Carpet Friendly – The bottom of S10 is equipped with an ultrasonic sensor, and as such, during the mopping process, when it detects carpet, it will lift its Roller Mop by 7mm back inside.

Mop Raising Comparison

Great for Hard Floors – The Roller Mop won’t damage flooring, and it also effectively reduces water stains after mopping, making it an ideal choice for cleaning wooden floors.

Automatically Dries – A drying system at the bottom of the Auto Empty Station automatically dries your S10 roller mop when it’s finished cleaning.

Of course, the SwitchBot S10 is also an excellent vacuum cleaner with a suction force of up to 6500Pa, making it ideal for any type of floor. In fact, the robot can detect the type of floor quickly and accurately so that when it rolls on a carpet, it will raise the mop up to 7mm high to prevent it from making contact with the material. The SwitchBot S10’s Auto-Empty Station is intelligently designed to allow the unhindered passage of pet hair without blocking the channel. You will still have to take out the dust bag by hand, but you only have to do it about every 70 days because of its large 4L capacity.

Despite this abundance of features, the SwitchBot S10 and its team come in a compact and space-efficient design to address the needs of different households. Powered directly by the SwitchBot S10 itself, the Water Station is able to save space and stand only 100mm long and 400mm. Even with the Auto-Emptying Station, which can be placed in a different part of the house, the total space they take up is still significantly smaller than most “All-in-One” robot vacuum cleaners.

The SwitchBot S10 is equipped with so many smart features that it almost makes you feel like royalty sending off a faithful steward to keep your floor spotless. From LIDAR navigation to obstacle avoidance to customizable zones, you can let the robot do all the work without even lifting a finger. And if you get the SwitchBot Humidifier, it can even deliver clean water to that device on its own. With the SwitchBot S10 automated floor cleaning robot and the world’s first plumbing-connected water refill station, you can stop wasting time and energy fussing over your floor and start spending time on the people and activities that matter the most.

Click Here to Buy Now: $899 $1199 ($300 off). Hurry, only 828/1000 left! Raised over $680,000.

The post How the revolutionary SwitchBot S10 robot offers 100% hands-free and stress-free floor cleaning first appeared on Yanko Design.

How to Clean Grout from Tiles: The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Bathroom Clean

As dirty grout between tiles can make any kitchen or bathroom look unappealing, it is important to periodically clean the tiles to eliminate mold and mildew and restore the grout to its original condition. Although it is easy to clean tiles, the crisscrossing lines of grout tend to attract moisture-loving bacteria. If one neglects to clean the grout, soap, and shampoo residue or mold and mildew, the color of the grout can change into a blackish tinge. Even in kitchen areas, while mold may be less of a concern, grouting can still look grimy due to splashes of food or washing up liquid.

Designer: The DIY Playbook

What is tile grout?

Tile grout plays a highly functional role as it fills the gaps and seals the joints between the tiles preventing them from shifting from their position or developing cracks. Grout can be classified into cement grout which is a cementitious powder mixture, and epoxy grout which is composed of epoxy resins and a filler powder. Note that the porous nature of cement grout makes it susceptible to water absorption as it develops stains and can get discolored over time, while epoxy grout is more durable and non-porous which makes it highly resistant to stains.

Here are some foolproof methods for cleaning grout in tiles, regardless of their location in your home. These methods are effective in breaking down mold and bacteria and restoring grout to its original sparkly white appearance.

Apply Grout Cleaner

Via: Which?

Use a commercial grout and tile cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions on the dirty areas of the grout. After cleaning, use a sponge, cleaning rags, or microfiber cloths to rinse and wipe each area. Ensure that no residue from the grout cleaner remains. If you are cleaning grout and tiles on the floor, mop the entire floor when finished.

Use Bleach

Bleach is highly effective for tackling stubborn mold and grime on grout. However, it should be used sparingly and reserved for tough grout stains, as excessive use can cause fading of the grout color. Before starting, ensure good ventilation by opening windows or doors.

There are two methods for using bleach when cleaning grout in tiles. First, you can apply it directly by pouring a small amount into a cup and using an old toothbrush to scrub the grout. An alternative method for cleaning grout in tiles involves creating a paste by mixing bleach and bicarbonate of soda until it resembles toothpaste consistency. Once the paste is ready, apply it to the grout and let it sit for 15 minutes before using an old brush to scrub away the paste and then allow the grout to air dry for a pristine finish.

Use Lemons

Lemons, with their natural acidity, serve as excellent cleaning agents, particularly effective for tackling discolored or stained grout. To use this method, take a fresh lemon and slice it in half, then run the juice along the grout lines. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes, and then use a clean toothbrush to scrub the grout. Finally, rinse away the lemon juice with warm water and pat the area dry with a clean towel.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Designer: Family Handyman

For moderate stains on tile grout, spray hydrogen peroxide on the grout lines, scrub with a bristle brush, rinse with warm water, and wipe the surface clean. Alternatively, you can make a paste using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, apply it to the grout, let it sit for some time, and then clean the grout lines with a brush before rinsing with warm water.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Via: Iakobchuk

The use of baking soda and vinegar is a highly effective home remedy for removing stains from the tile grout. Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it on the grout lines and then spray a mixture of vinegar and water on the baking soda paste. This will initiate a reaction between both substances and transform into a thick and foamy mixture. After the bubble formation stops, it transforms into a thick foamy mixture. Next, take an old brush and scrub the grout to eliminate the buildup. Finally, rinse it with warm water and complete the cleaning process.

White Vinegar and Water

Designer: Bennian

White vinegar is one of the most effective cleaning agents as it is naturally acidic in nature and inhibits the growth of mold and mildew. Make a solution of equal parts of vinegar and water and spray the solution on the grout lines. Let the solution stay for five minutes and scrub the grout with a stiff brush. Wash the area with warm water and restore the original color of the grout. Make sure to dilute the vinegar in water as vinegar is highly acidic and tends to damage the tile and grout.

Steam Cleaning

Via: Iakobchuk

To steam clean the grout, assemble and load the steam cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using only water and avoiding additional chemicals or cleaning solutions. Once the machine has heated up, turn on the steam function and run the cleaning brush along the grout lines, especially on the dirty areas of the grout applying a gentle scrubbing motion as you go. After steam cleaning, the marks should start to lift. Finally, use a rag or mop to thoroughly dry up the residual water.

Warm Water Spray

Designer: Emily Henderson

The gentlest cleaning option for tile grout is using warm water spray. Simply spray the water onto the tiled surface and gently scrub the grout lines using a soft bristle brush. Afterward, wipe the area with a dry cloth.

How to clean stubborn stains from the tile grout?

For old or stubborn stains that regular cleaning can’t remove, create a solution by thoroughly mixing 2 tablespoons of oxygenated bleach into 2 cups of warm water. Test the solution on a hidden area of grout to ensure it won’t cause discoloration. Apply the solution to a small area of stained grout lines, working in small sections and making more solutions as needed. Allow the cleaner to sit for up to 15 minutes to let it work, then scrub and rinse until all the cleaner is removed. Use firm pressure and make several passes over each grout line till the grout is clean.

How to prevent buildup on grout?

Via: minimalistbible

Despite daily efforts, body oils, and soap scum tend to stick to the tile and grout surfaces. To prevent mold and mildew buildup, it is important to clean and maintain the grout lines regularly, ensuring a neat and hygienic surface.

  • To maintain cleanliness and eliminate mold and mildew spores, pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cloth and wipe down the dirty grout and tiles at least once a week.
  • Alternatively, create a paste with baking soda and water, and rub it onto the grout with a grout brush or a used toothbrush at least once in two weeks. Rinse with clean water.

For routine cleaning and maintenance, spray diluted vinegar on the grout at least once a week, and then wipe it with warm water. Additionally, periodic maintenance should involve applying sealers to the grout lines to fill the pores and keep them clean. However, ensure that the grout is completely dry before applying the grout sealer.

The post How to Clean Grout from Tiles: The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Bathroom Clean first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Home Cleaning Appliances That Saves You Time and Sanity

Let’s face it. No matter how we sugarcoat or gamify it, household chores won’t always be fun and exciting. The very word itself has become synonymous with “burdensome,” and there will always be aspects of the task that will always be unpleasant. Unfortunately, these are also tasks that are critical to living a comfortable and healthy life, such as doing the laundry or cleaning up after pets. Since there’s no way to avoid doing them, the best solution would be to complete these chores in the easiest and fastest way possible without compromising on efficiency and safety. Fortunately, we’re at a point in history where technology and design have given us so many products to assist in household work, perhaps even too many to choose from. To help narrow down those choices, here are Yanko Design’s Top 10 home appliances that let you breeze through those chores so that you can spend your time on things that matter the most.

1. OSOTEK HotWave Mop Vacuum

vacuum gif

Robot vacuums might be good for regular maintenance of floors, but they might not cut it for heavier workloads and more stubborn dirt. That doesn’t mean you have to fall back onto less efficient and harder-to-use appliances, especially when there are smarter alternatives available. This one, for example, might look like a typical upright vacuum cleaner, but its innovative use of hot water to mop floors easily sets it apart from the crowd.

The OSOTEK HotWave’s built-in water heater makes sure that you’ll be able to get out those pesky stains, something that robot mops still can’t get right these days. Its intelligent suction power automatically adjusts how much suction you need depending on how much dirt its infrared sensor detects. And with its self-cleaning and self-drying features, all you really need to do is to take the OSOTEK HotWave from its base, walk around with it like a regular vacuum, and return it to its base so that it will be clean and dry for your next use. No dirt, no stains, no sweat.

Click Here to Buy Now: $359.99 $499.99 ($150 off, use code ‘WELCOME10’ to save extra $10!).

2. PUPSULE Portable Poop Scooper

When parents tell kids that a pet is a big responsibility, they’re probably referring to more than just feeding them and giving them baths. Cleaning up after our furry friends, especially when they’ve “done their thing,” can be the least enjoyable part of having a pet. That’s especially true when dogs leave their traces outdoors, much to the annoyance of other people and the embarrassment of their owners. Fortunately, you don’t need to get down and dirty anymore just to pick up after your canine pal, thanks to PUPSULE.

It may look like some prop from a kid’s sci-fi or secret spy show, but this leakproof mechanical arm is exactly what you need to safely and easily pick up your dog’s brown treasure. It almost feels like a game where you deftly pull out a poop bag, drape it over PUPSULE’s claw, and use the plunger to get the job done with the filled bag safely stowed inside the capsule, ready for dropping into a garbage bin. It’s a no-fuss, no-mess solution that will make walks with your dog a lot less stressful.

Click Here to Buy Now: $24.99 $29.99 (17% off).

3. ECOVACS DEEBOT Robot Vacuum Cleaners

Even before the present smart home wave, there was already a small number of robots rolling around some houses. Robot vacuum cleaners have been around for years now, and although they haven’t exactly changed their basic circular design, they have definitely become smarter and more sophisticated, offering features and perks that help take our minds off the dirt and stains on our floors. There is, in fact, a dizzying number of choices now available in the market, and ECOVACS ROBOTICS has one for every need and budget.

Those just getting their feet wet to keep their floors dry won’t go wrong with DEEBOT N10 PLUS, an entry-level option that offers a solid set of features, including laser-based navigation as well smart mopping. The DEEBOT T9+ takes cleaning to the next level with TruDetect 3D 2.0, which can avoid the objects that kids and pets tend to leave lying around. It even has a built-in air freshener to make sure that the room smells good while the floor stays clean. Right at the top stands the DEEBOT T10 OMNI, offering self-cleaning mop pads and voice control, ensuring that you’ll never have to stoop down just to keep your floors spic and span.

Click Here to Buy Now: $499.99 $649.99 ($150 off).

4. LARQ Purifying Pitcher

Keeping your house clean is important for hygienic living, but drinking clean water is even more critical to a healthy life. There are plenty of water purifying devices and products in the market, ranging from pitchers with filters to full-blown machines, but many of them ironically end up polluting the rest of the planet’s waters in the long run, directly or indirectly.

LARQ is a more sustainable solution to keeping both our bodies and our planet healthy. Using innovative carbon-derived, plant-based filters, this purifying pitcher not manages to clean water from pollutants but also makes water taste crisp and pure. Whether it’s for drinking plain water or making better-tasting smoothies, this sustainable water filtering pitcher quickly delivers pure and crisp water that will help sustain you for your next round of chores.

Click Here to Buy Now: $139 $168 (17% off).

5. AirTulip Sleep Air Purifying Smart Headboard

After all those chores, sleep is a most welcomed respite where we finally let our tired bodies rest. But even our seemingly peaceful bedrooms can be home to invisible things that still need to be cleaned out. In fact, we’re pretty much defenseless from these harmful substances when we’re asleep, so we have to rely on external help to clean up the air around our beds. That’s the kind of peaceful slumber that the AirTulip Sleep smart headboard is aiming for, and it does so in a rather unusual and creative way.

Unlike your typical air purifiers, the AirTulip Sleep integrates a medical-grade laminar flow purifier into a stylish headboard that you can match with any bed or linen design. Its unique technology practically creates a purified air bubble around you that doesn’t mix with other air in the room, effectively keeping contaminants away. As a bonus, the headboard integrates features like wireless charging, ambient light, reading lamps, and power outlets, making sure you can get the most out of your time in bed, whether asleep or just chilling out.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1124 $1499 (25% off).

6. Dayoo Kitchen Steam Cleaner

It isn’t just cleaning up after pets that is a chore. Cleaning up after humans, including ourselves, can be just as stressful. Of the many places in the house that requires the most cleaning, the kitchen is probably one of the highest. Never mind the pots and pans used for cooking, even just washing the plates and utensils we use every meal can be a tiring and wasteful activity. Of course, there are dishwashers nowadays, but these convenient machines turn out to be quite inefficient and ineffective at what it’s supposed to do.

It might look like an odd part of the kitchen, but Dayoo is an innovative alternative that combines the best of dishwashers and manual washing. Using a showerhead-like nozzle, it utilizes a high-pressure jet of steam to clean plates, bowls, pans, knives, and anything in between. Not only does it help save water, it also makes it easier to reach areas that neither dishwashers nor faucets can access, ensuring a thorough job of making your kitchenware clean and ready for their next use.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $230 (Free shipping!)

7. Leo’s Loo Too Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Cat owners have a different problem when it comes to their friend’s regular discharges. While these furballs can be trained to do their thing in litter boxes, making sure that those remain clean and odor-free isn’t as easy as it sounds. That can be especially problematic with fussy felines, though that can now be a thing of the past thanks to Smarty Pear’s latest contraption, Leo’s Loo Too.

Looking more like a toy washing machine that almost functions like one, this smart litter box promises a hands-free and worry-free experience for humans and a comfortable and safe life for the cat. Not only does it automatically clean after the cat, it can also log your pet’s visits and weight so you can keep tabs on their health as well. It will even alert you when its waste bag is full, so you don’t have to constantly check the drawer for yourself. It’s the purrfect fix for feline fans.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $649.99 (Use ‘100OFF’ for an additional $100 off and more).

8. Gulp Washing Machine Filter

Along with washing the dishes, doing the laundry is one of the inevitable chores that almost everyone experiences. Thankfully, there is also an abundance of technologies that make life easier for humans, though they sadly come at the expense of our planet’s own life. Very few realize that the dirty water that comes out of even the smartest washing machine has tiny particles that end up polluting the Earth’s waters. Cleaning our dirty laundry shouldn’t have to mean keeping our planet dirty, and that is what this simple, sustainable solution is delivering.

Gulp is a small machine that attaches to the wastewater output of any kind of washing machine, filtering the microplastics that our clothes shed during the washing process. Since it drains the excess water on its own, you don’t have to do anything afterward except empty the filter cup of the dried microfibers. Even better, Gulp’s creators will accept this captured material for research and recycling, ensuring that they won’t touch our planet’s waters ever again.

Click Here to Buy Now: $247 $310 (20% off).

9. Narwal T10 2-in-1 Robot Cleaner

Almost like our furniture, not everyone will be happy with a single robot vacuum cleaner design. Indeed, there might be too many options available, and they can vary greatly in terms of features and core functions. Of course, most advertise vacuuming as the main purpose, which is what the majority of people look for anyway. As if to turn that idea on its head, the Narwal T10 seems to make sucking up dirt its second-best feature only, putting most of its focus on mopping your floor clean.

Make no mistake, it’s still a good vacuum cleaner, but the Narwal T10 really shines when it comes to mopping the floor and then cleaning those mop heads without getting your hands dirty. Its LIDAR-based navigation makes sure it knows exactly where to go, or at least where you allow it to go in each room. Its “squircle” design also makes it stand out visually, driving home the image of being different from your typical large robot pucks.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1049 (Sign up to get $100 off).

10. Heisenberg LawnMeister Robot Lawnmower

Robot vacuum cleaners might be smart and useful, but their utility ends at your doors. When it comes to keeping lawns trimmed and clean, most have to settle for less efficient and less effective tools. Some smart lawnmowers, for example, aren’t smart enough to really know where to go, and you often end up having to set up ugly wire fences to keep them from going astray.

The LawnMeister robot lawnmower practically brings all the brains and technologies enjoyed by robot vacs from indoors to outdoors, allowing this roving grass cutter to know where they should and shouldn’t go, avoid obstacles and furry critters, and even spray fertilizer where it’s needed. Neighborhood kids might be bummed out at having less employment, but your lawn will definitely appreciate the smarter attention you can now give it without even lifting a finger.

Click Here to Buy Now: $999 $2499 (60% off).

The post 10 Best Home Cleaning Appliances That Saves You Time and Sanity first appeared on Yanko Design.

GLARC window cleaner concept looks like an alien creature out to get dirt

Having glass windows is a rather common design in many residential and business structures. They can add a bit of class to a home or building while also helping a bit with the lighting. Few will probably complain about them, at least until it’s time to clean them. You might presume that cleaning glass windows is an easy task, but anyone who has done that chore before will quickly say otherwise. Of course, there are tools that try to make that task a little bit easier, but these are often uninspired and sometimes ineffective anyway. Unfortunately, it’s easy to take the glass window cleaner for granted until you’re faced with the harsh reality of its poor design. Fortunately, this concept does try to address those flaws by taking inspiration from a bird on Earth, though it ends up looking more like a spaceship or alien creature instead.

Designer: Vinay Khairnar

The most common window cleaning tool is the squeegee, which is pretty much just a bar with a flat rubber blade used to push down water on a glass surface. Some have sponges opposite the rubber for use in actually wiping the glass with soapy water. Some are more creative in utilizing different shapes, but they still share the drawbacks of that basic design. These hand-operated cleaners are, more often than not, not ergonomic, don’t have enough surface area to cover a larger span of the window, or require you to use a different tool for holding the water.

GLARC attempts to rethink the common window cleaner design by changing both its form and its function. For the former, it tries to observe the sleek and streamlined shape of animals, particularly the Arctic Tern bird. This bird exhibits almost contrasting forms in the same body, being both curvy and angular at the same time, creating an almost majestic shape that is admittedly not that easy to translate into an artificial form.

The result is something that looks like a cross between a sci-fi spaceship and an alien creature that actually more closely resembles a stingray than a bird. It almost looks like a handheld vacuum cleaner, one with a flat and wide main body. Regardless of the final shape, GLARC is meant to be easier to hold and move, with a more ergonomic grip and more accessible controls, like a button on top that dispenses the water from the built-in water receptacle.

The concept design is also meant to make window cleaning easier by providing a tool that dispenses water, cleans with a sponge, and wipes with a rubber blade, all in the same device. It even has magnets to hold another GLARC cleaner on the opposite side of the window so that you can clean inside and outside at the same time. Of course, that last bit might still depend on the thickness of the glass and the strength of the magnets, but it’s already enough to be able to clean a single side more easily if this device is able to deliver its promises.

The post GLARC window cleaner concept looks like an alien creature out to get dirt first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 cleaning appliances that are the smart hacks you need to maintain a spotless home

If there’s one thing that COVID-19 has taught us (though there are plenty), it’s that maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, and sanitizing everything and anything in sight is a must. It’s also turned most of us into homebodies -irrespective of whether we were originally one or not. Since we spend most of our time at home, our mind automatically hones in on maintaining and taking the best care of our home. At least it does for me, once I wrap up my work! And a couple of innovative and unique home appliances can really help us with this. If you’re in a mood to Marie Kondo your home, or simply want to complete your chores easily and efficiently, these handy appliances will perfectly assist you in doing so. From a dust box that lets you clean your home in old-school style to a futuristic toilet cleaning robot – we have curated a whole range of nifty gadgets that promise to be the ultimate sidekick during your cleaning expeditions at home. Happy cleaning!

1. The Dayoo Kitchen Steam Cleaner & Dishwasher

With a nozzle inspired by a water-saving showerhead, the Dayoo Kitchen Steam Cleaner & Dishwasher permits you to use less water to clean more dishes in mere minutes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The contemporary dishwasher is a marvel of design and engineering… but it does have a few distinct flaws. For starters, it’s like a carwash for utensils. The nozzle within the dishwasher just senselessly sprays hot water in every possible direction, hoping to get food and grime off your utensils. It doesn’t necessarily target stains because it doesn’t ‘see’ them, and it wastes a massive amount of water trying to clean all your utensils regardless of their quantity and how they’ve been arranged on the trays. Washing utensils in your kitchen sink, however, is much more resource-efficient because you use an appropriate amount of water for a given set of utensils. The problem, though, is that it requires effort manually scrubbing grime off your utensils. Dayoo hybridizes both devices, combining them into one kitchen solution that relies on the best of both worlds.

What we like

  • Make cleaning utensils faster, effective, and energy-efficient
  • The heated steam does a more efficient job of getting grease and food off your plates and spoons

What we dislike

  • Dayoo can heat water up to temperatures of 221°F, which obviously raises safety concerns, but the company behind the appliance says that as long as your hand is 4 inches away from the nozzle, you’re fine

2. The Sterilizer 2022

Sterilizer 2022 Built-in Ultrasonic Cleaner UV-C 7

Sterilizer 2022 Built-in Ultrasonic Cleaner UV-C 6

UV-C has become a proven way to sterilize surfaces and personal stuff in the past two years. Sales for such sterilizers have gone up, and now they come in different forms and sizes. The Sterilizer 2022 is yet another concept product that brands can probably consider bringing into production.

Why is it noteworthy?

Korean designer Woojin Heo has shared his design for a cleaning system. It’s not exactly a personal sterilizer, but it is meant for cleaning tools you usually use at home. The goal was to develop a sterilizer for those standard cleaning tools we utilize every day. Sterilizing your cleaning tools is important to prevent contamination and bacterial growth.

What we like

  • The sterilizing system is built into the wall. You can have it installed inside the bathroom or in your mudroom or laundry room
  • To make things easy to access, the design features a tilted system

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

3. The Missaglia tiles

When we spend a lot of time indoors and keep the windows closed for air conditioning, we feel cool and comfortable. However, that means we also need air purifying devices to make sure that we’re breathing in healthy air inside our homes. There are several kinds of air-purifying devices out there but they seem to be pretty distinctive and will most likely not blend in with your furniture. This new concept will solve that problem by designing something that looks like part of your decoration.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Missaglia tiles are square-shaped tiles with rounded corners which you can attach to your walls. More than just tiles to match your aesthetic, they’re actually air purifying devices that can capture pollutants, bacteria, and viruses that are floating around your house. But the advantage as compared to the traditional air purifiers is that it won’t take up any space in your room as you only have to attach it to the wall or any surface you want to place it in.

What we like

  • Able to absorb and eliminate odors from both food as well as cleaning agents
  •  Won’t take up any space in your room

What we dislike

  • May not match the aesthetics of all living spaces

4. OSOTEK

Designed to have a wet and dry mopping feature, OSOTEK is the world’s first 4-in-1 mop vacuum cleaner with a built-in water heater that efficiently wipes/mops and de-odorizes your floor in a way that’s just as effective as a floor disinfectant, yet without any of the chemicals.

Why is it noteworthy?

The phrase ‘intelligent cleaning’ isn’t just some marketing catchphrase. The OSOTEK HotWave is quite literally a smart cookie. It comes equipped with an infrared sensor that can detect how dirty your floor is and adjust the suction power automatically in real-time. This, in effect, reduces your need to constantly run the vacuum over a spot to clean it. The variable suction power intensifies when the OSOTEK HotWave detects more dirt, and reduces when your floor is relatively dirt-free, saving you energy while also conserving battery.

What we like

  • Has a built-in ‘superthermal’ heater
  • Leaves your floor more spotless than a conventional vacuum cleaner

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

5. The Sebastiano

A new concept design for what they say is the “only designer robot in the world” has caught my attention as it says it will be my “home pal” and it was designed to be by my side. The Sebastiano | cleaning robot actually looks like a weighing scale without the actual scale and is covered by a cute rug. But it’s actually a cleaning device that can vacuum, sweep, and brush any surface whether it’s wood floorings or marbled floors.

Why is it noteworthy?

Another thing that may appeal to those who dislike those noisy old-school vacuum cleaners is that it is designed to be basically noiseless. So even if you’re watching a show or listening to your podcast, the cleaning motion of the robot should not disturb you, at least sound-wise. But it will apparently suddenly speak when the dust bin is already full and inform you that you need to empty it. The bin itself is triangular shaped and detachable so you won’t have any trouble getting rid of all that collected dust.

What we like

  • When it’s not in use, it is programmed to go back to its charging port so you won’t trip on it

What we dislike

  • There’s no app to help control it when it’s moving around
  • It’s still a concept

6. The Dust Box

The Dust Box doesn’t exactly look like any of the current handheld vacuums in the market as it gives off a classic look with its boxy shape. It is intentional as they’re going for the old-school look of vacuum cleaners that we might have used in the 80s or 90s, except that this one is not attached to a bigger body.

Why is it noteworthy?

At first glance it looks like a container of some kind and in a way, it is indeed a container of all the dust, trash, and small particles around the house. We don’t have much information about this product concept and we can base our “review” only on the photos provided. It seems to have all the basic parts you will need for a basic vacuum cleaner. A handle to carry it around, a nozzle to pick up all the trash, and a box to store up all these and then eventually dump them out. The nozzle doesn’t seem to be that flexible so I don’t know how it will be able to reach under the sofa and in some crevices where you need something a bit softer or longer.

What we like

  • This design brings much more room to store the dirt and trash
  • Simple + easy to use

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

7. H5

H5 is a multifunctional vacuum cleaner designed for small spaces that can break down into four parts that fit into a compact charging bin for easy storage.

Why is it noteworthy?

While living tiny is all the rage nowadays, it takes some skill to keep small city spaces clean. Especially when you live in an old apartment building or with pets, vacuuming becomes a daily chore. While vacuuming small spaces goes by quickly, storing a bulky vacuum cleaner becomes a nuisance just as quickly. To keep small spaces clean without the pain of storing big cleaning appliances, industrial designer Yipeng Zhu ideated a space-saving multifunctional vacuum cleaner called H5 that shrinks down to almost a ⅓ of its height.

What we like

  • H5 keeps an overall slim build when assembled and when disassembled so it doesn’t take up too much space in storage
  • H5 comes with three different vacuum heads that can be switched out for various cleaning needs

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept

8. Giddel

There almost comes a time when family members or housemates fight over the Porcelain Throne, but none actually like to stick around to clean it. Considering everything that goes inside, it’s really no surprise that cleaning the toilet ranks the highest in chores that even grownups don’t like to do. Some even hire other people to do that, but why settle for a regular expense when you can just buy a robot that is only too happy to clean the toilet for you. And that’s exactly what this rather cute-looking little guy is made for, to make your life a little bit less stressful, at least once in a while.

Why is it noteworthy?

Considering what it’s designed to do, it’s almost a bit ironic that Giddel looks almost too cute to get dirty. Big blue eyes set on a black face almost look at you innocently while hovering in the middle of the toilet bowl. A push on one of those eyes, which are actually control buttons, sends Giddel methodically spinning and scrubbing that toilet clean, including the hard-to-reach places that you probably wouldn’t even dare touch.

What we like

  • You can also use your choice of liquid cleaning solutions, so you won’t be locked into whatever the company sells, which is good because it doesn’t actually sell any
  • Is critical for people with disabilities

What we dislike

  • Giddel can itself get quite dirty and will require cleaning

9. The Rubbish Beam

Hatch Duo Rubbish Beam Concept

Hatch Duo Rubbish Beam Project

Picking up trash isn’t exactly fun, but you can make it exciting by getting cool tools and gadgets like the Rubbish Beam.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Rubbish platform and Rubbish Beam work together to help map and track litter trends. It aims to gamifying the experience so things won’t be boring. This effort also helps local waste management systems to improve efficiency and focus on what needs to be done. Data tracked and collected are analyzed to help municipalities know how to improve when it comes to waste management. The Rubbish Beam comes with LEDs to let you know it is paired with a phone app. In addition, it comes with a D-pad that enables you to categorize litter. This categorization can help analyze data from cleanups.

What we like

  • The handle and trigger are fully contoured for a more comfortable experience as described
  • It’s helpful in identifying areas and places that need attention

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

10. The Leo’s Loo Too

Looking almost like a slick front-loaded washing machine, the Leo’s Loo Too by Smarty Pear uses a similar rotating chamber to automatically ‘flush’ out your cat’s poo, saving you the trouble of digging away at kitty excrement with a scoop.

Why is it noteworthy?

After your cat’s gone about its business, the Leo’s Loo Too waits for the waste to clump together before beginning its cleaning cycle. To clean out the cat’s waste, the entire inner chamber rotates a full 360, using gravity and a clever mesh design to sift out and separate the waste from the litter. At the end of one 360° spin, the waste gets sent into the Loo’s waste drawer where it’s collected in a plastic waste bag, while the upper chamber is cleaned and laid down with the litter once again. The entire process happens automatically and can be controlled/calibrated via a companion smartphone app

What we like

  • Sports a modern enclosed design
  • The enclosed space means your cat can go about its business with utmost privacy

What we dislike

  • Occupies a substantial amount of space

The post Top 10 cleaning appliances that are the smart hacks you need to maintain a spotless home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Cleaning appliances designed to be the ingenious hacks you need to keep your home spick & span

If there’s one thing that COVID-19 has taught us (though there are plenty), it’s that maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, and sanitizing everything and anything in sight is a must. It’s also turned most of us into homebodies -irrespective of whether we were originally one or not. Since we spend most of our time at home, our mind automatically hones in on maintaining and taking the best care of our home. At least it does for me, once I wrap up my work! And a couple of innovative and unique home appliances can really help us with this. If you’re in a mood to Marie Kondo your home, or simply want to complete your chores easily and efficiently, these handy appliances will perfectly assist you in doing so. From a space-saving vacuum cleaner that breaks down into 4 parts to a futuristic toilet cleaning robot – we have curated a whole range of nifty gadgets that promise to be the ultimate sidekick during your cleaning expeditions at home. Happy cleaning!

1. The Dayoo Kitchen Steam Cleaner & Dishwasher

With a nozzle inspired by a water-saving showerhead, the Dayoo Kitchen Steam Cleaner & Dishwasher permits you to use less water to clean more dishes in mere minutes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The contemporary dishwasher is a marvel of design and engineering… but it does have a few distinct flaws. For starters, it’s like a carwash for utensils. The nozzle within the dishwasher just senselessly sprays hot water in every possible direction, hoping to get food and grime off your utensils. It doesn’t necessarily target stains because it doesn’t ‘see’ them, and it wastes a massive amount of water trying to clean all your utensils regardless of their quantity and how they’ve been arranged on the trays. Washing utensils in your kitchen sink, however, is much more resource-efficient because you use an appropriate amount of water for a given set of utensils. The problem, though, is that it requires effort manually scrubbing grime off your utensils. Dayoo hybridizes both devices, combining them into one kitchen solution that relies on the best of both worlds.

What we like

  • Make cleaning utensils faster, effective, and energy-efficient
  • The heated steam does a more efficient job of getting grease and food off your plates and spoons

What we dislike

  • Dayoo can heat water up to temperatures of 221°F, which obviously raises safety concerns, but the company behind the appliance says that as long as your hand is 4 inches away from the nozzle, you’re fine

2. The Sebastiano

A new concept design for what they say is the “only designer robot in the world” has caught my attention as it says it will be my “home pal” and it was designed to be by my side. The Sebastiano | cleaning robot actually looks like a weighing scale without the actual scale and is covered by a cute rug. But it’s actually a cleaning device that can vacuum, sweep, and brush any surface whether it’s wood floorings or marbled floors.

Why is it noteworthy?

Another thing that may appeal to those who dislike those noisy old-school vacuum cleaners is that it is designed to be basically noiseless. So even if you’re watching a show or listening to your podcast, the cleaning motion of the robot should not disturb you, at least sound-wise. But it will apparently suddenly speak when the dust bin is already full and inform you that you need to empty it. The bin itself is triangular shaped and detachable so you won’t have any trouble getting rid of all that collected dust.

What we like

  • When it’s not in use, it is programmed to go back to its charging port so you won’t trip on it

What we dislike

  • There’s no app to help control it when it’s moving around
  • It’s still a concept

3. H5

H5 is a multifunctional vacuum cleaner designed for small spaces that can break down into four parts that fit into a compact charging bin for easy storage.

Why is it noteworthy?

While living tiny is all the rage nowadays, it takes some skill to keep small city spaces clean. Especially when you live in an old apartment building or with pets, vacuuming becomes a daily chore. While vacuuming small spaces goes by quickly, storing a bulky vacuum cleaner becomes a nuisance just as quickly. To keep small spaces clean without the pain of storing big cleaning appliances, industrial designer Yipeng Zhu ideated a space-saving multifunctional vacuum cleaner called H5 that shrinks down to almost a ⅓ of its height.

What we like

  • H5 keeps an overall slim build when assembled and when disassembled so it doesn’t take up too much space in storage
  • H5 comes with three different vacuum heads that can be switched out for various cleaning needs

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept

4. Giddel Toilet Cleaning Robot

There almost comes a time when family members or housemates fight over the Porcelain Throne, but none actually like to stick around to clean it. Considering everything that goes inside, it’s really no surprise that cleaning the toilet ranks the highest in chores that even grownups don’t like to do. Some even hire other people to do that, but why settle for a regular expense when you can just buy a robot that is only too happy to clean the toilet for you. And that’s exactly what this rather cute-looking little guy is made for, to make your life a little bit less stressful, at least once in a while.

Why is it noteworthy?

Considering what it’s designed to do, it’s almost a bit ironic that Giddel looks almost too cute to get dirty. Big blue eyes set on a black face almost look at you innocently while hovering in the middle of the toilet bowl. A push on one of those eyes, which are actually control buttons, sends Giddel methodically spinning and scrubbing that toilet clean, including the hard-to-reach places that you probably wouldn’t even dare touch.

What we like

  • You can also use your choice of liquid cleaning solutions, so you won’t be locked into whatever the company sells, which is good because it doesn’t actually sell any
  • Is critical for people with disabilities

What we dislike

  • Giddel can itself get quite dirty and will require cleaning

5. The Leo’s Loo Too

Looking almost like a slick front-loaded washing machine, the Leo’s Loo Too by Smarty Pear uses a similar rotating chamber to automatically ‘flush’ out your cat’s poo, saving you the trouble of digging away at kitty excrement with a scoop.

Why is it noteworthy?

After your cat’s gone about its business, the Leo’s Loo Too waits for the waste to clump together before beginning its cleaning cycle. To clean out the cat’s waste, the entire inner chamber rotates a full 360, using gravity and a clever mesh design to sift out and separate the waste from the litter. At the end of one 360° spin, the waste gets sent into the Loo’s waste drawer where it’s collected in a plastic waste bag, while the upper chamber is cleaned and laid down with the litter once again. The entire process happens automatically and can be controlled/calibrated via a companion smartphone app

What we like

  • Sports a modern enclosed design
  • The enclosed space means your cat can go about its business with utmost privacy

What we dislike

  • Occupies a substantial amount of space

6. The AIPER Seagull 3000

Like a Roomba for your pool, the AIPER Seagull 3000 submerges itself in water to clean dirt in a way that your regular vacuum cleaner never could. Uniquely designed to work underwater (thanks to its rather clever floating battery unit), the AIPER Seagull 3000 filters water through its system, catching dirt, leaves, twigs, algae, and even that difficult-to-catch scum that your average cordless cleaner can’t grab.

Why is it noteworthy?

In turn, the AIPER Seagull 3000’s fine filtration system captures debris as small as 180 µm preventing it from re-entering the water. You can operate it manually via a smartphone app or have it autonomously clean your pool’s floor, walls, and edges/corners efficiently with its 120W suction capability.

What we like

  • The Seagull 3000 has an independent battery which just makes it a much stronger and more capable machine
  • The floating battery makes the Seagull 3000 cordless, safe, and just as effective

What we dislike

  • The wall-climbing feature doesn’t activate on critical battery levels, so you may need to gently pull the Seagull 3000 up using the battery line

7. BrushPro

BrushPro is extremely convenient to use compared to its forerunners. The extendable handle allows you to reach narrow spaces without having to perform advanced yoga poses on the floor and minimizes your direct contact with the dirty brush. The handle also has slits that give the brush head some flexibility while cleaning – a great universal design that takes into account the experience of the differently-abled demographic as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

The brush head includes rubber as well as fiber for more efficient cleaning. Another brilliant detail is the slot for the detergent bottle, so you can simply refill and reuse the detergent bottle instead of buying more plastic spray bottles – it also frees up your hand as it combines both cleaning products in one!

What we like

  • A slot for the detergent bottle
  • Combines two cleaning products in one

What we dislike

No complaints

8. AETHER

Imagine, after a long day, you walk into your home and pleasing music (you had preset) begins to play. The air purifier kicks in simultaneously to ensure, no matter how much pollution you have inhaled outside, the air at home is clean, fresh, and welcoming. Designed in form of a turntable, AETHER is a concept that makes this possible.

Why is it noteworthy?

Clean air is important for lungs and blood circulation. In fact, it is important for our well-being. And since the pandemic has pushed us all into the confines of our homes, we are spending approximately 90 percent of our time indoors. Researches prove that the concentration of certain pollutants is often up to five times more than the typical outdoor air. This means the air we breathe at home, in spite of believing it is the freshest, is not clean. This is where AETHER comes in!

What we like

  • The speaker is controlled remotely by a smartphone or smart device to play any music you like, well before you set foot into the house

What we dislike

  • There is a lot of work that needs to be done to make it a valuable air purification device we’d want to vouch for

9. The Narwal T10

There is a growing number of robots invading our homes, but not in the nefarious way that many sci-fi flicks would have us believe. These robots roam around our rooms, picking up dirt, dust, and hair and sometimes even wiping off stains. Robot vacuum cleaners now come in all shapes and sizes, and it has become a bit more difficult to pick one unless they have some special feature or gimmick. The Narwal T10, the company’s first stab at a robot cleaner, advertises one such special skill, and we set it loose on the floor to check if it makes the cut.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Narwal T10 will immediately strike one as something so different from your usual robot vac, even the ones with 2-in-1 mopping and vacuuming functions. For one, both its base and the robot itself are coated in white, a color that’s most often associated with cleanliness and sanitation. It also gives off a better minimalist vibe, though that may come at the expense of dirt and stains being more visible on the product’s surface.

What we like

  • 2-in-1 mopping and vacuuming functions

What we dislike

  • You will need to empty the dust bin more often than not because of its small capacity

10. Air Spa

You know that age-old trend of drying yourself with a towel after a shower? Boring, no? And pretty time-consuming too, if you ask me. I mean it’s 2021, we definitely need a cooler way of drying ourselves. I guess BDCI Design thought the same because they designed ‘Air Spa’…a body dryer! Yes, you read that right. The South Korean design consultancy created a dryer for your body, and defines it as a “refreshing bathroom experience”. The tall vertical appliance blows out air to dry your body after you take a shower.

Why is it noteworthy?

So, where does the spa bit of ‘Air Spa’ come into play? The appliance’s unique form and height support various little holes that blow out air. These ‘air holes’ feature multiple layers, and can be positioned vertically or horizontally, however you prefer. So, you have air blowing at you from different angles and positions, mimicking the experience of a massage or spa. It’s almost like a wind bath if you ask me. And, it could be the ultimate last step in unwinding after a long day at work.

What we like

  • Air Spa’s interesting height makes it perfect for users of all ages. The vertical appliance can be used for children and adults alike
  • Reduces our laundry load!

What we dislike

  • Unsuitable for tiny bathrooms with space constraints

The post Cleaning appliances designed to be the ingenious hacks you need to keep your home spick & span first appeared on Yanko Design.

Giddel toilet cleaning robot is what the future of cleaning should be

Robots are designed to do tasks that are difficult or dangerous for humans, so it seems only fitting that there should be one for cleaning the bowl, too.

There almost comes a time when family members or housemates fight over the Porcelain Throne, but none actually like to stick around to clean it. Considering everything that goes inside, it’s really no surprise that cleaning the toilet ranks the highest in chores that even grownups don’t like to do. Some even hire other people to do that, but why settle for a regular expense when you can just buy a robot that is only too happy to clean the toilet for you. And that’s exactly what this rather cute-looking little guy is made for, to make your life a little bit less stressful, at least once in a while.

Designer: Atlan Robotech

Considering what it’s designed to do, it’s almost a bit ironic that Giddel looks almost too cute to get dirty. Big blue eyes set on a black face almost look at you innocently while hovering in the middle of the toilet bowl. A push on one of those eyes, which are actually control buttons, sends Giddel methodically spinning and scrubbing that toilet clean, including the hard-to-reach places that you probably wouldn’t even dare touch.

The robot has a predominantly white and blue color scheme that you might consider odd for something that’s bound to get really dirty quickly. While that is true, it also makes it easier for owners to see if Giddel itself needs some cleaning. There will be no escaping that task, unfortunately, but the promise of an antimicrobial plastic surface should alleviate some fears at least.

Like other robot cleaners, Giddel also has a dock where it sits and charges when not needed. You can also use your choice of liquid cleaning solutions, so you won’t be locked into whatever the company sells, which is good because it doesn’t actually sell any. It does sell brush replacements, which is pretty much all there is when it comes to prolonging the use of this robot.

Before you think that Giddel is something just for lazy folks, the robot does have a benefit for a specific class of people. A toilet cleaning robot that’s easy to set up and use will be critical for people with disabilities who can’t do that themselves and don’t always have help available. This is definitely the kind of robot that will be essential in homes of the future, and not just vacuum cleaners and mopping robots.

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Cleaning Appliances designed to spruce up your home right in time for the Chinese New Year

Today, millions of people all around the world, began celebrating the Chinese New Year, which marks the transition from the Year of the Ox to the Year of the Tiger. Also deemed, the Lunar New Year, the celebrations for this day usually involve catching up with family and friends, bursting firecrackers, watching traditional dances, drooling over exquisite feasts, and of course, decluttering and cleaning up your home in preparation for a year of whole new blessings and victories! And a couple of innovative and unique home appliances can really help you out with this! From a space-saving vacuum cleaner to an air purifier designed in the form of a turntable – these handy cleaning appliances are all you need to Marie Kondo your house and welcome the Year of the Tiger in the tidiest manner possible. Happy cleaning!

1. H5

H5 is a multifunctional vacuum cleaner designed for small spaces that can break down into four parts that fit into a compact charging bin for easy storage. H5 keeps an overall slim build when assembled and when disassembled so it doesn’t take up too much space in storage. When disassembled, H5 breaks down into four parts and fits into one charging case that can easily slip away behind any table or into the closet to free up floor space. When users would like to use the vacuum, putting H5 together comes just as easily as putting together any other vacuum. The main pipe connects via telescopic tubing where the vacuum head also easily attaches.

2. The Aether

Combining the goodness of air purification and music with an aesthetically pleasing form factor, designer Hyunbin Yang has conceived the AETHER. This Bluetooth speaker and air purifier in the shape of a modern turntable can be a centerpiece of disguise no matter where you choose to place it at home. The speaker is controlled remotely by a smartphone or smart device to play any music you like, well before you set foot into the house. So, the time you have can be spent on other tasks, while the mood of the house is already set. The biggest advantage that the AETHER has over the other air purifiers we have seen in our time is the convenience with which the air filters can be swapped. Here changing the filter is as easy as replacing a vinyl on the turntable.

3. The Alpha Pillow 2

The Alpha Pillow 2’s design starts with a bamboo-charcoal-infused foam mass, which apart from providing the benefits of memory foam, also uses activated carbon to neutralize microorganisms and toxins. The carbon-infused foam does a pretty standup job of keeping your pillow free of germs and microorganisms, the Alpha Pillow’s silver-fabric cover forms the first line of defense, destroying bacteria, viruses, and molds before they can even propagate. The pillow itself comes with a bamboo fabric cover, followed by a unique fabric made from silver fibers that are lab-tested to be incredibly efficient at self-sanitizing the pillow.

4. The Narwal T10

The Narwal T10 will immediately strike one as something so different from your usual robot vac, even the ones with 2-in-1 mopping and vacuuming functions. For one, both its base and the robot itself are coated in white, a color that’s most often associated with cleanliness and sanitation. It also gives off a better minimalist vibe, though that may come at the expense of dirt and stains being more visible on the product’s surface. The T10’s base station is also considerably larger and bulkier than other robot vacuums, but that is both intentional as well as an illusion. Robot cleaners with narrower stations actually have larger bases for the robot to stand on, taking up almost the same amount of floor space anyway. With Narwal’s design, the robot goes inside the station completely and hides any part that humans or pets can trip on. Additionally, the larger size is necessary to support the T10’s mopping functions, which we’ll get to later.

5. The Giddel Toilet Cleaning Robot Kit

The Giddel Toilet Cleaning Robot Kit is all you need to maintain a super clean toilet! The robot is perfect for cleaning those hard-to-reach spots in your toilet. You just need to remove the robot from its charging station and connect it to the mounting bracket. Add some toilet bowl cleaner to the bowl, and use Giddel to systematically scrub the rim, the bowl, the space under the bowl, and down the exit. Giddel’s telescopic arm can fit into toilets of all sizes, both small or large, and clean them effectively. Giddel’s circular and wavy motion ensures that it covers every inch of the toilet!

6. Elle

Inspired by the bathing rituals of elephants in the wild, Stalin Jr. designed Elle’s silhouette to resemble the shape of an elephant’s rump. Scaled down from the size of an actual elephant’s rump to around the same size as an air dryer, Elle is compact enough to fit right on any kitchen countertop. Elle functions as the go-to appliance in between meals, when there aren’t enough dirty dishes to use the full-size dishwasher, but you still want to keep the sink free of dirty dishes. Equipped with all of the functions needed for a thorough cleaning, Elle comes with a touch-automated control panel and wall-mountable water inlet valve.

7. Cork Vaccum Cleaner

This intriguing concept for a vacuum cleaner is not only multipurpose in design, it is also sustainable in construction. The storage section of the vac is made from cork, which is biodegradable and has a warm ambiance to it. The vacuum pipes and other parts are designed in a manner to be stored within the cork shell that then neatly covers using a lid. The possibility of concealing the entire appliance from sight saves valuable space at home and leaves the vacuum to still be used in the open with a different purpose.

8. WITS Collection

ROLL, for example, looks like a simple fabric-covered stool, though the seam at the top clearly indicates that it can be opened. Rather than being a hidden container, however, it can accommodate a detachable UV light module that can clean larger objects like toys, books, or even bags. It’s something handy to have around the house, especially during these days when people tend to worry a lot about indoor sanitation. FLOAT definitely has a simple cabinet feel to it, one that’s designed to stand by your bed for easy access to your things. However, a portion of its top surface actually acts as a wireless charging area for your phone so you won’t have to worry about forgetting to plug your phone in every night. Pull the top drawer, however, and you’ll be greeted by a soft LED light that could save you a lot of pain at night.

9. The Everloop Dish Brush

With the Everloop dish brush’s design, you can continue to maximize the functionality of your product while reducing waste. The head of the brush has a concave lid mechanism that compresses the bristles against the inner part of the brush. The bristles are snapped into place and you can clean effortlessly. This concavity also works as a soap container and dosifier while you clean your tableware. To replace bristles, use any flat piece from your kitchen as a lever to open it and replace it with a new set of bristles. The body of the brush is made from recycled plastic collected from discarded accessories and the bristles are made from natural fibers (bamboo, castor beans, etc).

10. The Cat Person Litter Box

With Cat Person, Granneberg set out to design a litter box that appears like a piece of furniture to blend in with other interior design elements. To achieve this, Granneberg outfitted the Cat Person litter box with a wooden top lid that gives it the same appeal as a small side table. Ensuring casts enjoy enough airflow and light while taking care of business, Granneberg punctuated the wooden top lid with circular cutouts, creating a ventilated and well-lit interior space. Granneberg also designed the litter box with larger-than-average dimensions to allow bigger cats to have enough room to sit and turn around with comfort. An ergonomic and durable scooper accompanies the litter box that comes with a handy storing mechanism to avoid the eyesore of litter dropping to the floor.

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