As the holiday decorations are packed away and the new year unfolds, January is the perfect time to get your home in order. Many homeowners begin gearing up for their spring cleaning, and who better to offer advice on the best products than Lynsey Crombie, the “Queen of Clean”? Known for her expert tips on This Morning and her appearances on Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners, Crombie has amassed a dedicated social media following thanks to her practical and efficient cleaning strategies.
Crombie, a staunch believer in the power of the right tools, shares her expert recommendations for must-have cleaning products. When asked about the first items to buy for a new home, she didn’t hesitate. “You’re going to need a good vacuum,” she advised. She recommends having both a corded and cordless vacuum, each serving a different purpose in maintaining a clean home. The cordless model is ideal for quick clean-ups, perfect for daily dirt and spills, while the corded version is best suited for deeper cleans, like the traditional Sunday scrub.
For an affordable yet reliable corded vacuum, Crombie recommends the Hoover HL4 or HL5 range. Described as lightweight and cost-effective, these vacuums are particularly great for households with long-term durability. Crombie herself has used two models for years, both of which remain in excellent condition. The Hoover Upright Vacuum Cleaner with Anti Hair Wrap HL4 is currently priced at £199 on Hoover’s website, but it’s available on sale for just £139, down from £219.
The Hoover HL4 boasts a solid 4.6-star rating from users, with one shopper praising its versatility and design: “It’s lightweight and easy to convert into a portable vacuum. It beats stick vacuums and can clean hard-to-reach areas like ceilings and behind furniture.” Another customer added, “It’s the best Hoover I’ve ever had—light, quiet, and effective. The lift-away feature makes cleaning stairs a breeze.”
However, not all feedback is glowing. One review pointed out the vacuum’s lack of maneuverability, stating, “It doesn’t turn easily, and I find it difficult to move around. It’s fine for straight paths but struggles under furniture.”
For those with a larger budget, Crombie suggests considering premium options, such as Vorwerk vacuums, which she likens to the “Mercedes” of the vacuum world. These German-engineered vacuums are known for their exceptional performance, although they come with a higher price tag.
While corded vacuums are essential for deep cleans, Crombie also recommends cordless models for everyday touch-ups. These lightweight vacuums are especially handy when cleaning up after children or pets, making them perfect for quick sweeps after muddy footprints. “There are many options on the market, and most are similar,” Crombie says. “Choose one that fits well in your storage space or one that hangs discreetly on the wall.”
In addition to vacuums, Crombie is a fan of specialized tools like spot cleaners and steam cleaners. She has even launched her own collection of pink cleaning tools with Swan, featuring everything from toilet brushes and spin mops to premium devices like steam mops and carpet cleaners. “A spot cleaner isn’t something you’ll use daily, but it’s great for quarterly deep cleans,” she explains. These devices are ideal for cleaning rugs, car interiors, dining chairs, and mattresses.
For those looking to invest in a spot cleaner, Crombie suggests pooling together with family or friends to share the cost. The 1.3-litre spot cleaner from her Swan range is currently on sale for £99.99, down from £119.99—making it an affordable investment when shared among a group.
Whether you’re moving into a new home or just looking to refresh your cleaning routine, Crombie’s expert advice ensures you’re equipped with the right tools to tackle any mess.
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