That moment when you’re wrestling with stubborn floor grime, and your old brush just isn’t cutting it, is a familiar one for many homeowners. You want a sparkling clean floor, but without breaking the bank. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of cleaning tools out there, each promising miracles. We’ve all been there, staring at shelves or scrolling online, wondering which option will actually deliver on its promise without emptying your wallet. The search for effective cleaning solutions that are also budget-friendly can feel like a treasure hunt.
Fortunately, achieving a beautifully clean floor doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. We’ve done the legwork to help you navigate this often-confusing market and pinpoint the most effective options. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource for discovering the best rotary floor brushes under $50. We’ll dive into what makes a rotary brush a great choice for tackling everything from everyday dust to more challenging messes, ensuring you can confidently make a purchase that leaves your floors looking their absolute best.
Before moving into the review of the best rotary floor brushes under $50, let’s check out some of the relevant products from Amazon:
Last update on 2025-09-03 / #ad / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Say Goodbye to Stubborn Grime Without Breaking the Bank!
Remember that one time you tried to tackle a particularly stubborn spill on your hardwood floor, armed with nothing but a flimsy sponge and a whole lot of optimism? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Those moments of wrestling with dirt, grime, and those unidentifiable sticky spots can feel like a losing battle, especially when you’re trying to keep your home looking its best. But what if I told you that achieving sparkling clean floors doesn’t have to cost a fortune or require a Herculean effort?
It turns out, the secret weapon for effortless floor cleaning might just be a rotary brush. These clever gadgets, often designed to attach to your existing vacuum cleaner or used as standalone power scrubbers, are engineered to spin at high speeds, effectively lifting and loosening even the most deeply embedded dirt. Think of it like giving your floors a vigorous, yet gentle, massage that blasts away the gunk. For many, a good rotary brush can make the difference between a surface that’s just “clean enough” and one that truly gleams.
Now, you might be picturing those industrial-sized machines that cost more than your rent. But here’s the exciting part: you don’t need to remortgage your house to get your hands on a powerful floor-cleaning tool. We’re diving deep into the world of affordable cleaning solutions to bring you the absolute best rotary floor brushes under $50. Yes, you read that right – brilliant results are well within your budget!
In this guide, we’ll explore options that can transform your cleaning routine, making it faster, more efficient, and dare I say, even a little enjoyable. We’ll be looking at brushes designed for various floor types, from delicate tile to robust laminate, and highlighting those that offer the best bang for your buck. So, get ready to discover how to conquer those tough messes and achieve floors you can be proud of, all without emptying your wallet.
Best Rotary Floor Brushes Under $50 – Reviews
OHM ELECTRIC Rotary Floor Brush
For anyone looking to give their floors a serious sparkle without breaking the bank, the OHM ELECTRIC Rotary Floor Brush is a fantastic option. This little powerhouse is surprisingly effective at tackling everything from everyday dust bunnies to stubborn grime. The rotating bristles really get in there, lifting dirt and debris that a standard broom or mop might miss. It’s lightweight and maneuverable, making it a joy to use even in tight spaces.
What makes this brush stand out is its versatility. It works wonders on tile, laminate, and even sealed hardwood floors, leaving them looking remarkably clean. The durable construction suggests it’s built to last, which is always a plus when you’re watching your wallet. Plus, assembly is a breeze, meaning you can get straight to cleaning without any hassle.
Black+Decker Rotary Floor Brush
If you’re in the market for a reliable and no-nonsense cleaning tool, the Black+Decker Rotary Floor Brush is a solid contender. This brush is all about efficiency, designed to make your floor cleaning routine quicker and more effective. The powerful motor drives those bristles with gusto, digging into grout lines and textured surfaces to loosen and sweep away dirt. It’s a great choice for tackling high-traffic areas that tend to accumulate the most mess.
One of the really appealing aspects of this brush is its ergonomic design. It’s comfortable to hold and operate, reducing fatigue during longer cleaning sessions. You’ll appreciate how easily it glides across different floor types, and the brush head is designed to capture as much debris as possible in a single pass. For the price, the cleaning power this unit delivers is truly impressive.
Dirt Devil Rotary Floor Brush
The Dirt Devil Rotary Floor Brush brings a touch of modern convenience to the chore of floor cleaning. This unit is designed with ease of use in mind, making it accessible for just about anyone. The rotating action is smooth and consistent, ensuring a thorough clean across your entire floor surface. It’s particularly good at picking up finer particles of dust and pet hair that can often cling to floors.
You’ll find this brush to be a real time-saver. It’s simple to operate with just a push of a button, and the lightweight build means you can easily move it from room to room. The effective bristle design helps to lift dirt and grime without causing any damage to your delicate flooring. It’s a smart investment for keeping your home looking its best without a hefty price tag.
Pro-Lite Rotary Floor Brush
For those who appreciate a balance of power and portability, the Pro-Lite Rotary Floor Brush is a worthy addition to your cleaning arsenal. This brush boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it incredibly easy to store and maneuver. Despite its smaller size, it packs a punch when it comes to cleaning, with a robust rotating brush that tackles a variety of floor surfaces effectively.
The Pro-Lite truly shines in its ability to reach those awkward corners and edges that often get missed. The brush head is designed to get right up against baseboards, ensuring a comprehensive clean. It’s an excellent tool for maintaining the cleanliness of apartments or smaller homes where space might be a consideration, offering great performance without a bulky footprint.
EverClean Rotary Floor Brush
The EverClean Rotary Floor Brush is a no-fuss, effective cleaning solution that will make your floors gleam. This brush is all about delivering a superior clean with minimal effort. The dynamic rotating bristles work tirelessly to dislodge embedded dirt, dust, and other common household messes. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to achieve a noticeably cleaner floor without a lot of physical exertion.
What’s really great about the EverClean is its durable construction and the quality of its bristles. They seem to be designed to withstand regular use and continue performing well over time. It’s straightforward to use, and the results are consistently satisfying, leaving your floors looking refreshed and tidy. For the price point, it’s a practical and highly functional cleaning companion.
Smart Savings: Getting a Great Rotary Floor Brush Without Breaking the Bank
We’ve all been there: you’re staring at your floors, wondering how to tackle that stubborn grime, and you know a good rotary brush would make all the difference. But then you see the price tags of some of those high-end models, and your wallet starts to protest. The good news is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a fantastic rotary floor brush that can transform your cleaning routine. For many of us, particularly those on a budget or who don’t need the industrial-grade features of a premium model, finding effective rotary floor brushes under $50 is a smart and practical choice that offers immense value.
Imagine this: your kids have just finished a messy art project, and paint splatters are everywhere. Or perhaps your furry friend decided to track mud all through the house after a rainy walk. In these everyday scenarios, a reliable rotary floor brush can be your superhero. It effortlessly lifts dirt, grime, and even stuck-on debris from tile grout, concrete patios, or durable linoleum, saving you from endless scrubbing on your hands and knees. These affordable brushes, with their robust bristles and efficient design, can make these dreaded cleanup tasks significantly easier and faster, freeing up your precious time for things you actually enjoy.
Beyond the immediate cleanup power, investing in a quality rotary floor brush under $50 can also protect your flooring investment. Over time, harsh scrubbing with abrasive tools can damage delicate surfaces. A well-designed, affordable rotary brush, however, uses the power of rotation to do the heavy lifting, minimizing the physical strain on both you and your floors. This means less risk of scratches or wear, ensuring your floors maintain their beauty and integrity for longer, which is a win-win for both your home and your wallet.
Ultimately, needing a rotary floor brush under $50 isn’t about settling for less; it’s about making a wise financial decision that still delivers exceptional cleaning performance. These accessible tools provide the power and efficiency needed to tackle a wide range of household messes, from everyday spills to more challenging dirt buildup. By choosing a budget-friendly yet effective rotary floor brush, you’re not just buying a cleaning tool; you’re investing in a cleaner, healthier, and more manageable home without unnecessary expenditure.
Why Choose a Rotary Floor Brush?
Rotary floor brushes offer a unique advantage in cleaning by combining the power of rotation with the effectiveness of bristles. Unlike traditional mop heads or static dusters, these brushes actively agitate surfaces, dislodging stubborn dirt, grime, and debris that might otherwise be left behind. This mechanical action is particularly beneficial for textured floors, grout lines, and areas with embedded dirt, providing a deeper and more thorough clean.
The oscillating or spinning motion of the brush head allows it to reach into crevices and contours that flat surfaces simply cannot. This makes them excellent for tackling messes on tile, stone, and even some types of sealed hardwood. The ability to break down and lift stuck-on particles means less scrubbing effort from the user and a more effective clean with potentially fewer cleaning solutions.
Furthermore, the versatility of rotary floor brushes extends to their compatibility with various cleaning machines, from basic handheld units to more powerful floor scrubbers. This adaptability allows users to leverage the benefits of rotary cleaning across different applications and cleaning tasks, making them a valuable addition to any cleaning arsenal, even on a budget.
Understanding Brush Head Materials and Types
When selecting a rotary floor brush, the material of the brush head is a crucial factor to consider, as it directly impacts cleaning effectiveness and surface compatibility. Common materials include nylon, polypropylene, and natural bristles. Nylon is a durable synthetic that offers good abrasion resistance, making it suitable for most general-purpose cleaning tasks. Polypropylene is often softer and more flexible, ideal for more delicate surfaces where you want to avoid scratching.
Natural bristles, such as horsehair or Tampico fiber, offer a softer touch and are excellent for polishing or cleaning sensitive surfaces like certain types of hardwood or natural stone. However, they may not be as effective at scrubbing tough, embedded dirt. Some brushes also feature a combination of bristle types, blending softer and stiffer fibers to provide a balance of cleaning power and surface protection.
Beyond material, the stiffness and density of the bristles also play a significant role. Stiffer, more densely packed bristles will provide a more aggressive scrub, ideal for heavily soiled areas or tough-to-clean grout. Softer, more widely spaced bristles are better suited for lighter cleaning or maintaining the finish of polished surfaces. Understanding these variations will help you match the brush head to your specific flooring and cleaning needs.
Key Features to Look For in Affordable Rotary Brushes
Even within a sub-$50 budget, several key features can significantly enhance the performance and usability of a rotary floor brush. One important aspect is the brush head’s diameter and maneuverability. A larger diameter can cover more surface area in a single pass, but a smaller, more compact head might be better for navigating tight spaces and corners. Consider the type of connection your cleaning machine uses to ensure compatibility.
Durability and ease of attachment/detachment are also vital. Look for brushes with robust construction and secure attachment mechanisms that won’t easily detach during use. The ability to easily swap out brush heads for different cleaning tasks or when bristles wear down is a significant convenience. Many affordable options will feature a simple snap-on or twist-lock system.
Consider the bristle design as well. Some brushes feature specialized bristle patterns or materials, such as angled bristles for better edge cleaning or softer, non-marking bristles for delicate floors. While you might not find every premium feature at this price point, focusing on a sturdy build, good bristle material for your needs, and a user-friendly design will ensure you get the most value for your money.
Maintenance and Longevity of Your Rotary Brush
To maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of your rotary floor brush, proper maintenance is essential. After each use, it’s crucial to thoroughly rinse the brush head to remove any accumulated dirt, debris, and cleaning solution. This prevents material buildup that can stiffen the bristles and reduce their cleaning efficacy over time. Allow the brush head to air dry completely, preferably in an upright position, to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Regularly inspect the brush head for any signs of wear and tear, such as bent, broken, or excessively worn bristles. Depending on the frequency and intensity of use, bristles will eventually degrade. Replacing the brush head when its cleaning performance noticeably diminishes will ensure you continue to achieve optimal results and prevent potential damage to your floors from worn-out bristles.
Storing your rotary floor brush correctly can also contribute to its longevity. Avoid storing it in damp environments or in a way that puts constant pressure on the bristles, which can cause them to deform. If your cleaning device allows for brush head removal, storing the brush separately in a dry, clean location is ideal. Some users also find that periodic soaking in a mild cleaning solution can help revitalize the bristles and remove stubborn residue.
Your Go-To Guide for the Best Rotary Floor Brushes Under $50
Hey there, cleaning champs! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to make your cleaning routine a little less of a chore and a lot more effective. And let’s be honest, wrestling with a stubborn broom or a clunky vacuum attachment can be, well, frustrating. That’s where rotary floor brushes come in. These nifty gadgets can seriously level up your cleaning game, especially on hard floors. But who has unlimited cash to spend on cleaning supplies, right? That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you snag the best rotary floor brushes under $50. We’ll dive into what makes a good one, what to watch out for, and how to find a real gem without breaking the bank. So, grab a cup of something warm, and let’s get your floors sparkling!
Bristle Type and Stiffness: The Heart of the Brush
Okay, first things first, let’s talk about the business end of these brushes – the bristles! Think of them as the little workhorses that do all the heavy lifting. The type and stiffness of the bristles are going to make a huge difference in how well your rotary floor brush tackles different types of dirt and surfaces. You’ll typically find brushes with nylon, polypropylene, or even natural bristles. Nylon and polypropylene are usually tougher and more durable, making them great for scrubbing away stubborn grime on tile or concrete. They can handle a bit of elbow grease, which is exactly what you want when you’re dealing with dried-on messes.
On the other hand, if you have delicate hard floors like hardwood or laminate, you’ll want to be a bit more cautious. For those surfaces, softer bristles are your friend. They’ll still pick up dust and debris effectively without scratching or damaging your beautiful floors. Some brushes even offer a combination of bristle types – maybe softer bristles on the outer edge to protect baseboards and stiffer ones in the center for extra scrubbing power. It’s all about matching the bristle to your floor type and the kind of mess you’re typically facing. Getting this right is key to finding the best rotary floor brushes under $50 that work for your home.
Connection Mechanism: Making Sure it Fits
This might sound a little technical, but trust me, it’s super important! Rotary floor brushes don’t just magically attach to anything. They need a way to connect securely to your vacuum cleaner or other cleaning tool. Most brushes will have a standard connection type, often a clip-on or screw-on mechanism. Before you even start browsing, it’s a good idea to take a peek at the end of your vacuum cleaner’s wand or extension tube and see what kind of fitting it has. Taking a quick photo can be a lifesaver when you’re shopping online!
You don’t want to get all excited about a fantastic-looking brush, only to find out it won’t attach to your equipment. It’s like buying a new key but realizing it doesn’t fit your lock – super frustrating! Look for descriptions that clearly state the compatibility or mention common vacuum brands. If you have a less common vacuum model, it might be worth checking out reviews from people who own the same one to see if they’ve had success with specific brush attachments. A snug and secure connection means the brush will spin effectively and won’t come flying off mid-clean.
Durability and Build Quality: Will it Last?
When you’re looking for the best rotary floor brushes under $50, you’re definitely not aiming for something that’s going to fall apart after a couple of uses. Durability is a huge factor, especially if you’re planning on using it regularly for tackling tougher jobs. Think about the materials the brush head is made from. Is it sturdy plastic, or does it feel flimsy? Pay attention to how the bristles are attached – are they deeply embedded, or do they look like they might shed easily?
Reading customer reviews can be your best friend here. People are usually pretty vocal if a product is poorly made and breaks quickly. Look for comments that mention how long they’ve been using the brush and if it’s held up well. A well-built rotary floor brush might cost a dollar or two more than the absolute cheapest option, but in the long run, it’s often a better investment. You want something that can withstand the rigors of cleaning without you having to replace it constantly. It’s all about getting good value for your money, and that includes how long the product lasts.
Size and Maneuverability: Getting into Those Nooks and Crannies
Let’s talk about getting around! The size and shape of a rotary floor brush can really impact how easy it is to use, especially in tighter spaces. A massive, bulky brush might be great for open areas, but it can be a nightmare to navigate around furniture legs, under cabinets, or along baseboards. You want something that’s agile enough to get into those often-neglected spots where dust and dirt love to hide.
Many rotary floor brushes are designed with a swivel head, which is a game-changer for maneuverability. This allows the brush to pivot and turn, making it much easier to glide around obstacles. Think about the types of furniture and the layout of your rooms. If you have a lot of tight corners or delicate items that you need to clean around, a more compact and highly maneuverable brush will be your best bet. Being able to easily steer the brush is key to a thorough clean and can make a big difference in your overall cleaning experience.
Cleaning Performance: Does it Actually Work?
This is probably the most obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: does the brush actually do a good job of cleaning? When we’re talking about the best rotary floor brushes under $50, you’re looking for a noticeable improvement in how clean your floors are compared to your regular cleaning methods. A good rotary brush should effectively sweep up dust, dirt, hair, and other debris from hard surfaces, leaving them looking much cleaner.
Think about the specific types of messes you usually deal with. Are you mostly picking up everyday dust and pet hair? Or are you trying to scrub away dried-on food spills or mud? Some brushes are better suited for general sweeping, while others have stiffer bristles designed for a more aggressive clean. Checking out demonstration videos or reading reviews that talk about specific cleaning tasks can give you a good idea of what to expect. Ultimately, you want a brush that delivers visible results and makes your floors genuinely cleaner.
Compatibility with Different Floor Types: One Brush Fits All?
This ties back a bit to bristle type, but it’s also about the overall design. Not all rotary floor brushes are created equal when it comes to handling different kinds of hard flooring. Some are fantastic all-rounders, while others might be more specialized. If you have a mix of floor types in your home – say, tile in the kitchen and hardwood in the living room – you’ll want a brush that can handle them all reasonably well.
You wouldn’t want to use a brush that’s too aggressive on your delicate hardwood floors, as it could cause damage. Conversely, a brush that’s too soft might not be effective enough on tougher, textured surfaces like some types of tile. Look for brushes that are advertised as being suitable for a range of hard floor surfaces. If a brush specifically mentions its suitability for wood, tile, laminate, and vinyl, that’s a good sign. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and opt for a brush that offers versatility if you have varied flooring throughout your home.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews: Wisdom from the Crowd
When you’re shopping on a budget, it’s tempting to just grab the cheapest option you see. But when it comes to finding the best rotary floor brushes under $50, taking a moment to consider the brand and what other people are saying can save you a lot of hassle. Some brands have built a reputation for making reliable cleaning accessories, even in the more affordable price ranges.
This is where online reviews become your superpower! Dive into what other consumers have experienced. Are there recurring positive comments about a specific brush’s performance or durability? Equally, are there common complaints about bristles falling out, connections breaking, or poor cleaning results? Don’t just look at the star rating; read a few of the reviews, both good and bad, to get a balanced perspective. People’s real-world experiences can offer invaluable insights that you might not find in the product description alone, helping you make a confident decision about your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a rotary floor brush and why would I need one?
A rotary floor brush is a specialized cleaning tool designed to attach to a rotary floor machine, sometimes called a floor buffer or scrubber. Think of it as a powerful, spinning brush that agitates and lifts dirt, grime, and debris from hard floor surfaces much more effectively than a standard mop or broom. They’re particularly useful for tackling tougher jobs like stripping old wax, deep cleaning grout lines, or scrubbing away stubborn stains on concrete, tile, or vinyl floors.
If you’ve got a floor machine and are looking to really get your floors sparkling clean, a rotary brush is your secret weapon. It maximizes the power of your machine, allowing it to do the heavy lifting for you. This means less manual scrubbing, less time spent on your hands and knees, and ultimately, a cleaner, more professional-looking finish on your hard floors.
Are these brushes only for professional use, or can I use one at home?
Absolutely, you can use these brushes at home! While professional cleaners often rely on floor machines and rotary brushes for their daily work, many homeowners find them incredibly useful too. If you have larger areas of hard flooring, like tile in a kitchen or hallway, or even a garage floor that needs a good scrub, a rotary brush can make a huge difference. It’s a great way to achieve a deeper clean than you might get with just a mop and bucket.
The key is matching the right brush to your specific floor type and the job you need to do. Many of the options under $50 are designed to be user-friendly, so you don’t need to be a professional to get great results. Just be sure to read the product descriptions and our guide to ensure you pick the best brush for your particular needs and your floor machine.
What kind of floors can I use these under-$50 rotary brushes on?
You’ll find that many of these affordable rotary brushes are quite versatile and work wonderfully on a variety of hard floor surfaces. They’re excellent for tough jobs on materials like concrete, tile (including ceramic and porcelain), vinyl, linoleum, and even some sealed hardwood floors. The key is choosing the right bristle stiffness for your specific floor type.
For example, if you have delicate sealed wood or a softer tile, you’ll want to opt for a softer bristle brush. If you’re tackling something more robust like a concrete garage floor or trying to strip old wax from commercial-style tile, a stiffer, more aggressive brush would be more appropriate. Always double-check the brush’s specifications and your floor manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid any potential damage.
How do I know which type of bristle (soft, medium, stiff) is right for my floors?
Choosing the right bristle stiffness is all about balancing cleaning power with the protection of your floor surface. Soft bristles are generally the gentlest and are perfect for routine cleaning, polishing, or for use on more delicate flooring like sealed hardwood, laminate, or softer vinyl. They’ll effectively lift surface dirt without being abrasive.
Medium bristles offer a good middle ground, providing more agitation for slightly tougher dirt or grime without being overly aggressive. They’re a solid choice for everyday cleaning on most tile, linoleum, and some composite flooring. Stiff or aggressive bristles are for the heavy-duty tasks – think stripping wax, deep cleaning heavily soiled grout lines, or tackling rougher surfaces like concrete or heavily textured tiles. Using a brush that’s too stiff on a delicate floor can lead to scratching or damage, so it’s always better to start with a softer option if you’re unsure.
Will these brushes fit any rotary floor machine?
That’s a great question, and it’s important to be aware of compatibility. While many rotary floor brushes use a standard drive system, it’s not a universal fit for every single machine out there. Most machines use a universal pad driver or clutch plate that the brush attaches to, but the exact connection mechanism can vary. Before you buy, it’s crucial to check the specifications of both your floor machine and the brush you’re interested in.
Typically, you’ll want to look for brushes that mention compatibility with standard 175 RPM floor machines or specify the type of clutch plate they fit (like a “universal clutch”). If your machine is older or a less common brand, it might be worth measuring the diameter of your current brush or the attachment point to ensure a proper match. It’s always better to confirm before clicking that “buy” button!
What’s the best way to maintain my rotary floor brush to make it last longer?
Keeping your rotary floor brush in good shape is surprisingly simple and will definitely help it perform better for longer. After each use, the most important thing you can do is thoroughly rinse it to remove all the dirt, debris, and cleaning solution. You can do this under a running faucet or with a hose. Ensure you get all the gunk out from between the bristles.
Once it’s rinsed clean, give it a good shake to remove excess water and then let it air dry completely. It’s best to store it bristle-side up or hang it if possible, so air can circulate around the bristles and prevent any mold or mildew from developing. Avoid storing it flat, as this can cause the bristles to become bent or matted over time. Following these simple steps will help maintain the brush’s shape and cleaning effectiveness.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when using a rotary floor brush?
Absolutely, safety is always paramount when working with any cleaning equipment, especially a powerful tool like a rotary floor machine with a brush attachment. The most important thing is to ensure the brush is securely attached to your floor machine before you start. A loose brush can be dangerous, potentially flying off and causing damage or injury.
Also, always wear appropriate footwear that provides good traction – you don’t want to be slipping around while operating a machine! If you’re using a particularly stiff brush or tackling a tough job, consider wearing safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying debris. And remember, even though these brushes are designed to be effective, always operate your floor machine according to its manufacturer’s instructions, paying attention to any specific safety guidelines they provide.
Verdict
So, there you have it – a treasure trove of affordable cleaning power! You’ve armed yourself with the knowledge to snag one of the best rotary floor brushes under $50, and we’re betting your floors are already breathing a sigh of relief. Don’t let those dust bunnies and grime hang around any longer. Take that leap, invest in a brush that fits your budget and your cleaning needs, and get ready to witness a transformation. Your sparkling floors are just a click away, and honestly, the satisfaction of a job well done (and a wallet still happy!) is the ultimate reward.
Now, go forth and conquer! You’re not just buying a tool; you’re upgrading your entire cleaning game without breaking the bank. Imagine the ease, the efficiency, the sheer joy of gliding across your freshly cleaned floors. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, and with the right rotary floor brush, you’re well on your way to a cleaner, happier home. Embrace the power of smart choices and get ready to be amazed at what a little bit of research and a fantastic find can do for your space. Happy cleaning!