2. Scrub Brush

Why You Need It: “This is good when you want to clean aggressively,” says Don Aslett, author of No Time to Clean! (Marsh Creek Press, $13, www.amazon.com). “Use it on floors, fireplaces, or any rough surface.” It can also annihilate soap-scum rings.
What to Look For: Heavy-duty nylon bristles are the least likely to scratch surfaces. A comfortable handle (rubber is ideal) keeps skin from coming into contact with cleansers.