How to Organize Cleaning Supplies: A System That Actually Works

Disorganized cleaning supplies make cleaning harder and less efficient — you waste time searching for products, buy duplicates you didn't know you had, and end up with a cluttered cabinet that's frustrating to use. A well-organized cleaning supply system makes cleaning faster and more consistent. Here's how to set one up.

What You'll Need

• JiatuA Large Cleaning Caddy with Handle (Dark Gray) — portable caddy that holds spray bottles, cloths, and brushes; carry everything you need from room to room in one trip
• JohnBee Empty Spray Bottles, 16oz (2-Pack) — for decanting bulk cleaners and DIY solutions into labeled, easy-to-use bottles
• Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (24-pack) — color-code by room to prevent cross-contamination
• Labels or a label maker
• Under-sink organizers or shelf risers (optional)

Step 1: Audit What You Have

Before organizing, take everything out and assess:

• Check expiration dates — most cleaning products have a shelf life of 1–2 years
• Discard anything expired, nearly empty, or that you haven't used in over a year
• Consolidate duplicates — use up one product before opening another
• Identify what's missing and what you actually need

Step 2: Categorize by Use

Group supplies by where and how they're used:

• Daily use: All-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths — keep most accessible
• Bathroom: Toilet cleaner, scrub brush, bathroom spray
• Kitchen: Degreaser, dish soap, sponges
• Floor care: Mop, floor cleaner, vacuum
• Deep clean / occasional: Oven cleaner, drain cleaner, specialty products — store separately

Step 3: Set Up a Cleaning Caddy

The JiatuA Cleaning Caddy is the most practical organizing tool for cleaning supplies. Load it with your most-used products and carry it from room to room — no more trips back to the cabinet for forgotten items.

What to keep in the caddy:

• All-purpose cleaner spray bottle
• Glass cleaner
• 3–4 microfiber cloths
• Scrub brush or sponge
• Rubber gloves

Step 4: Decant into Labeled Spray Bottles

Large bulk containers are awkward to use and store. Decant frequently used cleaners into the JohnBee 16oz Spray Bottles and label clearly:

• Label with the product name and dilution ratio if applicable
• Include the date filled
• Use different colored bottles or labels for different product types (e.g., blue for glass, green for all-purpose)
• The HDPE bottles are safe for vinegar, alcohol, and most cleaning solutions

Step 5: Color-Code Microfiber Cloths by Room

Using the same cloth in the bathroom and kitchen spreads bacteria. Color-coding prevents cross-contamination:

• Red: Bathroom and toilet
• Blue: Kitchen surfaces
• Yellow: Glass and mirrors
• Green: General surfaces and dusting

The Amazon Basics Microfiber Cloths (24-pack) come in multiple colors, making color-coding easy and affordable.

Step 6: Organize the Storage Space

Under the Sink

• Use a shelf riser to create two levels of storage
• Store tall bottles at the back, shorter items at the front
• Use a turntable (lazy Susan) for easy access to items at the back
• Keep hazardous products (bleach, drain cleaner) on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet if children are present

Cleaning Closet

• Hang mops and brooms on wall hooks to keep them off the floor and allow air circulation
• Store the cleaning caddy on a low shelf for easy grab-and-go access
• Keep a small trash bag supply in the closet for easy bin liner replacement

Maintaining the System

• Return everything to its designated place after each cleaning session
• Do a quarterly audit — discard expired products and restock what's running low
• Refill spray bottles before they run out completely so you're never caught without a cleaner

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store cleaning supplies safely with children or pets?

Store all cleaning products in a locked cabinet or on high shelves out of reach. Never store cleaning products in food containers or unlabeled bottles. Keep the cleaning caddy out of reach when not in use. Child-proof cabinet locks are an effective additional safety measure.

Can I store bleach and other cleaners together?

Never store bleach near ammonia-based cleaners, acids (vinegar), or hydrogen peroxide — mixing these creates toxic gases. Store bleach separately in its original container. See our guide on cleaning product safety for full details on what not to mix.