TikTok has become a go-to source for cleaning hacks, and it’s not hard to see why. The platform is home to a vast array of creative and engaging content, including cleaning tips and tricks. However, not all of these hacks are created equal, and some can actually be harmful to your home. In this article, we’ll look at some TikTok cleaning hacks you should avoid.
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Using Lemon Juice to Clean Marble Surfaces
One TikTok cleaning hack that has been gaining popularity is the use of lemon juice to clean marble and stone surfaces. Unfortunately, while this may seem like a natural and safe option, it can be harmful to your marble.
Lemon juice is acidic. It can etch the surface of your marble, leaving it dull and damaged. Instead of lemon juice, opt for a mild pH-neutral detergent or a cleaner specifically designed for marble surfaces. Cleansers with a neutral potential of hydrogen or pH, a measure of acidity, are best suited for marble. Something with a pH of 7 is ideal because it is neither acidic nor alkaline, making it pH neutral. Examples of mild dish detergents are Mrs. Meyer’s (7-8 pH) and Dawn (9 pH). These two would be great replacements for acidic cleaners, lemons, vinegar, and glass cleaner.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide to Clean Carpets
Hydrogen peroxide is a popular TikTok cleaning hack for removing stains from carpets. While it can effectively remove stains, it can also bleach your carpet if used incorrectly.
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful oxidizer that can damage your carpet’s fibers, leading to discoloration and even holes in severe cases. Also, if ingested by pets or children, hydrogen peroxide can also be harmful.
Instead of using hydrogen peroxide, use a carpet cleaner specifically designed for your type of carpet.
Using Toothpaste to Clean Silver
Many TikTok users have been touting toothpaste as a quick and easy way to clean silver jewelry and other silver items. However, while toothpaste can effectively remove tarnish, it can also scratch the surface of your silver, leaving it damaged. Instead, opt for a silver polish specifically designed for use on silver and a cellulose sponge rather than the manufacturer’s sponge to prevent more damage. Another gentle and effective way to clean your jewelry is with a polishing cloth pre-treated with a micro-abrasive polishing compound.
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“Mop With Me” Videos
Using boiling water and laundry detergent to wash floors is damaging to certain types of floors. For example, boiling water can cause some floors, such as vinyl and laminate, to warp or buckle. Additionally, laundry detergent may contain harsh chemicals that can strip away the protective coating on some floors or cause discoloration.
It’s important to note that different types of floors require different cleaning methods and products. For example, hardwood floors require gentle cleaners that won’t strip away the finish, while tile floors may require stronger cleaners to remove grime and stains.
If you’re unsure how to clean your floors properly, it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek advice from a professional. It’s always better to err on the side of caution to prevent any potential damage to your floors. Don’t spend twice the money and double the effort for a better-smelling floor you could have gotten by buying a different floor cleaner.
#productoverload Videos
It is generally recommended that you should never mix different cleaning products unless explicitly instructed to do so by the manufacturer. Mixing cleaning products can be dangerous because the chemicals in different products can react with each other and release toxic fumes, cause chemical burns, or even explode.
Furthermore, some cleaning products contain ingredients that are not compatible with others. For example, mixing bleach with ammonia produces the toxic gas chloramine, which irritates the eyes, nose, and throat and causes coughing and breathing difficulties. Likewise, mixing bleach with acidic cleaners like vinegar produces chlorine gas, which is harmful if inhaled.
Product overload is bad for health, plumbing, and the environment. Not to mention expensive.
Things To Remember
When it comes to cleaning, cleaning products are usually better or safer than at-home alternatives, and many eco-friendly options are also available.
TikTok can be an excellent source for cleaning hacks, but not all are safe or effective. So be wary of the tips and tricks you see online, and always do your research before trying out a new cleaning hack. When cleaning your home, it’s a good idea to stick with tried and true methods that are safe and effective.
