TikTok Cleaning Hacks That Could Damage Your Home

Not all TikTok cleaning tips are effective or safe. Some may even damage your bathroom fixtures! Read here the do's and don'ts of TikTok cleaning Hacks

When you're in the mood for spring cleaning, it’s tempting to try out some of the viral TikTok cleaning hacks that float about. However, not all of these trendy tips are as effective or safe as they seem. Some may even damage your bathroom fixtures, kitchen surfaces, or household furniture. Fear not however, as many are both effective and useful when incorporated into your cleaning routines. 

In this article, we’ll highlight the viral cleaning hacks you should avoid and the ones you should adopt.

Here are the essential do’s and don’ts when it comes to cleaning your home, TikTok-style.

The Do’s and Don’ts of TikTok Cleaning Hacks

Tip 1: Don’t use vinegar for everyday cleaning

Vinegar is often hailed as a versatile household cleaner, but it isn’t suitable for all surfaces. While vinegar can effectively remove dirt and grime, its acidic properties can damage materials like treated wood, laminate flooring, and natural stone surfaces (e.g., marble and granite). Over time, using vinegar on these surfaces could erode finishes and cause costly damage.

Tip 2: Do Use Vinegar to Remove Limescale

Vinegar shines when it comes to tackling limescale buildup. The acid in vinegar reacts with the chalky deposits, breaking them down effectively. A great trick when removing limescale from a shower head, is to fill a ziplock bag with white vinegar, place it around your showerhead, and secure it with an elastic band. Let it sit for a few hours to dissolve the limescale.

Note: Avoid using vinegar on black or matt shower heads, as it can damage their surface.

Tip 3: Don’t Overuse Bleach

Bleach is a powerful disinfectant, perfect for toilets and heavily soiled areas, but it’s not suitable for everything - especially bathroom grout! Grout can develop mould and mildew, leading to discoloration. While bleach may temporarily remove the surface appearance of mould, it doesn’t kill the roots, meaning the problem will return. Worse, repeated bleach use can erode the grout over time, making it more prone to dirt build-up. 

Tip 4: Do Clean Your Mirrors With a Mop

One TikTok hack that works wonders when followed correctly, is using a microfiber cloth on a mop to clean bathroom mirrors. The cloth helps remove dust and prevents streaks. Start cleaning from the top of the mirror and work your way down. The mop handle’s length allows you to reach the entire surface easily, leaving a streak-free, lint-free shine.

Tip 5: Don’t Overuse Cleaning Products

While it’s tempting to try all the latest cleaning products seen on TikTok, most homes don’t require multiple specialised cleaners. Many cleaning products are multipurpose and can be used throughout your home. Overusing products, particularly harsh ones like bleach or disinfectants, can lead to surface damage in toilets, sinks, and countertops.

Aesthetic TikTok cleaning videos often show users mixing several colourful and great-smelling products, but combining too many can be harmful. Not only can this damage surfaces, but mixing chemicals can release dangerous fumes, posing health risks.

Tip 6: Do Use Rain Repellent on Shower Screens

Tired of watermarks on your glass shower screen? This TikTok hack is a great solution. Apply a window cleaner with rain-repellent properties to your shower screen. The repellent creates a water-resistant coating that allows water to slide off the glass, preventing streaks and watermarks after each shower. It’s a simple way to keep your shower screen sparkling and clear for longer.

Cleaning Inspiration

TikTok can be a great source for cleaning inspiration, but some hacks are better left untried. Stick to reliable cleaning methods, and always consider the long-term effects on your home surfaces. Following the right tips can keep your bathroom and home clean without causing damage!