Automatic Scrubbers
Take the elbow grease out of cleaning with these handy gadgets.
To keep your home sparkling without aggravating your arthritis, break big scrubbing jobs – such as kitchens and bathrooms – into smaller, shorter scrubbing sessions, advises Paula Bohr, Ph.D., associate professor of occupational therapy and director of the occupational therapy program at Maryville University in St. Louis. Clean the sink one day and the toilet another; take frequent breaks to avoid repetitive stress to joints; and use joint-friendly tools, such as these lightweight automatic scrubbers.
For hard floors. Power Mop with by Black and Decker:$40, www.blackanddecker.com or 800/544-6986. This tool has a mop pad with a cleaning fluid dispenser to clean large areas and a powered brush to remove caked-on dirt. The mop pad can be attached and detached without using your hands or stooping. It includes four double AA batteries.
For carpets. SpotBot Handsfree Compact Deep Cleaner by Bissell: $130, www.bissell.com or 800/237-7691. Simply fill the reservoir with water and a cleaning solution, and set this hands-free spot cleaner on any fresh or set-in carpet stain. The bot will beep when it’s finished scrubbing. Larger stains will require several scrubbing cycles due to the bot’s limited cleaning surface.
For tight spots. SonicScrubber by SonicScrubbers: $13, www.sonicscrubbers.com or 800/530-9234. This lightweight brush is perfect for cleaning small areas and tight spots, such as grout lines, faucets and refrigerator trays. The four brush heads make the scrubber multifunctional. Its simplicity earned it an Arthritis Foundation’s Ease-of-Use Commendation.
For the shower. Automatic Shower Cleaner by Scrubbing Bubbles: $25, www.automaticshowercleaner.com or 800/494-4855. Hang this unit from the showerhead, push the button and walk away. The 360-degree power sprayer coats the walls, floors, and door or curtain with a cleanser. Daily use keeps a clean shower free of mildew; it takes 10 to 14 days to clean built-up soap scum.
For anywhere. ScumBuster Xtreme Cordless Power Scrubber by Black and Decker: $40, www.blackanddecker.com or 800/544-6986. Designed with ergonomics in mind, this new, multipurpose scrubber has a padded grip and detachable extension handle for cleaning high and low spots – such as the tub and shower – without straining your back and shoulders. The fully submersible scrubber has interchangeable tools, including a rolling brush and scouring pad.
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