When you live in a small apartment, cleaning can feel both simple and tricky at the same time. Simple—because there’s less floor to cover. Tricky—because every corner, shelf, and surface tends to accumulate dust and clutter fast. In my 400-square-foot New York apartment, I’ve learned that the secret to keeping things fresh isn’t cleaning more—it’s choosing the right tools that fit the space and the way I live.
In this review, I’ll share the cleaning tools that truly work for small spaces: compact, multi-purpose, easy to store, and actually enjoyable to use. If your apartment feels too small for bulky vacuums and mops, this guide will help you build a smarter, lighter cleaning setup.
The Vacuum That Changed My Routine
My top pick is the Dyson V12 Detect Slim cordless vacuum. It’s light, quiet, and the laser dust detection feature is surprisingly useful—especially when cleaning under the bed or along baseboards where dust hides. The slim wand makes it easy to maneuver in tight corners, and the wall-mounted dock keeps it off the floor.
I’ve also tested cheaper alternatives like the Tineco A11 Hero and Shark WandVac System—both solid options if you’re on a budget. But Dyson’s edge is in suction consistency and the little touches, like the one-click dust bin release that doesn’t puff debris back into the air.
Pro tip: Choose a cordless vacuum with a removable battery. It’s easier to charge and prolongs the device’s lifespan.
A Foldable Mop That Actually Fits Behind the Door
I used to dread mopping because I had nowhere to store the bucket. Enter the O-Cedar EasyWring RinseClean Spin Mop—a compact, dual-tank system that separates clean and dirty water. The mop head folds, and the telescopic handle fits neatly behind my bathroom door.
For quick touch-ups, I use a reusable microfiber spray mop (like the Bona Premium Spray Mop). It’s great for quick spills in the kitchen without lugging out the full setup.
If your space is tight, consider a mop that either folds or has wall hooks built in. You’ll thank yourself later.
The Magic of Handheld Vacuums
Crumbs on the sofa. Dust on the windowsill. Cat hair on the curtains. These are all quick jobs that don’t need a full vacuum. That’s where a handheld vacuum becomes essential.
The Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean is the one I’ve used for years. It charges via a small dock and is easy to grab for two-minute cleanups. Some people prefer the Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro—especially if you have pets—but I like the lighter feel of the Black+Decker.
Handheld vacuums make cleaning spontaneous. I’ll pick it up while the coffee brews, and my apartment stays consistently cleaner without “cleaning day” dread.
Collapsible Buckets and Hidden Tools
If you think you don’t have space for cleaning tools, you probably just need collapsible versions. My collapsible silicone bucket lives under the sink and doubles as a laundry soak tub.
For brushes, I like the OXO Good Grips Compact Dustpan Set. The broom snaps onto the handle, and the dustpan has a rubber edge that hugs the floor so you don’t chase crumbs around.
Drawer organizers are also cleaning tools, in a way—they prevent clutter from returning. Once I organized my cleaning supplies into labeled bins, it was easier to keep track of what I had and what I’d run out of.
Small Tools That Make a Big Difference
Some of my favorite “micro tools”:
- Mini squeegee for mirrors and shower walls — it prevents hard-water stains before they form.
- Microfiber cloths — they replace paper towels and can handle mirrors, counters, and electronics.
- Detail cleaning brushes — for grout lines, faucet bases, and window tracks.
- Lint rollers — not just for clothes; I use them on lampshades and upholstered furniture.
Each of these takes almost no storage space but adds a lot of impact.
The Hidden Hero: Multi-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate
Instead of juggling bottles, I now use a single concentrated cleaner (currently Branch Basics or Blueland). You dilute it for different purposes—kitchen, glass, bathroom—and refill the same bottles. It saves cabinet space and cuts down plastic waste.
When you live small, every inch matters. Using refills and multi-purpose cleaners means fewer bulky bottles and more usable storage.
Pros & Cons of Compact Cleaning Tools
✅ Pros:
- Easier to store and grab on impulse
- Encourages frequent, low-effort cleaning
- Lightweight and adaptable to tiny spaces
❌ Cons:
- Smaller capacity (you’ll empty more often)
- Battery life limits on cordless devices
- Some foldable designs feel less sturdy over time
Still, the trade-off is worth it for anyone managing a small space.
How I Store Everything
Here’s my quick setup:
- A wall rack inside the closet door for broom and mop
- A collapsible crate for sprays and rags
- The cordless vacuum docked behind the bedroom door
- A mini caddy under the sink for daily supplies
Everything is invisible until I need it. The trick is to store vertically and think modularly—every tool should have a home.
My Verdict
After years of trying to keep a small apartment spotless without feeling overwhelmed, I’ve learned this: cleaning small spaces isn’t about doing less—it’s about using smarter tools.
If I had to recommend just three essentials, they’d be:
- A cordless stick vacuum (Dyson or Shark)
- A spray mop with microfiber pads
- A handheld vacuum for daily crumbs and corners
Together, they make my apartment feel bigger, fresher, and calmer. Cleaning no longer feels like a project—it’s just part of the rhythm of living here.
Written and tested by Chi Tran for 123Review.net.
Affiliate links may earn a commission, but opinions are my own.
Chi Tran is a tech and lifestyle reviewer based in New York City, exploring how simple tools make urban life smarter.
