School’s back, and parents are officially in “headless chicken” mode. Between hunting down the right blazer and tackling a stationery list that feels more like a scavenger hunt, the 2026 back-to-school season is getting weird.

Forget just pens and notebooks. This year, parents are being asked to pack Domestos and Handy Andy in the school bag.

Cleaning Supplies or School Supplies?

The Joy Ride with Angel Campey took a deep dive into the ever-evolving (and slightly confusing) demands of the 2026 school year stationery list. It turns out that cleaning products have officially joined the “essential items” list for many students.

“Is my kid going to school to learn or to deep-clean the classroom?” — Every parent right now.

What’s the strangest thing on your list this year? From industrial-strength cleaners to bulk-buy tissues, the cost of “stationery” is hitting different in 2026!