I’m an appliance pro & a popular TikTok cleaning hack can leave you with a big plumbing bill – another just wastes time
THE #cleantok community has sent out some mixed messages among neat freaks.
One appliance expert stepped up to say that the tidying tips could do more harm than good.
Appliance expert at RDO Kitchens & Appliances, Matt Ayres, gave a rundown of issues with popular cleaning trends.
He said some of the hacks flat out don’t work, while others could be seriously damaging the home.
Cleaning whizzes have been consulting the internet for tips and tricks.
With short-form explanatory videos, a lot of context can get lost on the DIYer.
DOS AND DON’TS
Ayres not only called out the tidying no-nos, he gave some alternative tips to try instead.
“Sink cleaning hack can cause a hefty plumbing bill,” he said.
“One TikTok hack promises to clean grime and other build-up in kitchen sink plugholes, making them sparkly like brand new.
“The ‘hack’ involves removing the plug hole with little effort.
“In many videos, the ‘gunk’ that influencers are removing is actually the rubber seal, which is meant to prevent leakage in the sink.”
One viral TikTok demonstrating the hack left the cleaner looking clearly disappointed by the end of it.
“To clean plug hole build up, use a drain unblocker, allow it to sit for an hour, and then follow with boiling water,” Ayres advised.
“Keep your plughole and sink fresh by using baking soda and rinsing with boiling water two to three times per week.”
Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda is available from Target for $1.59.
FRESH OUT THE OVEN
Ayres also pointed out a viral cleaning tip that flat out doesn’t live up to expectations.
“Three-ingredient oven cleaning hack is inefficient,” he said.
Cleaning hacks and tips
Here are some tips to help you when you clean your home next:
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- This ‘lazy’ hack will ensure your oven is clean for pennies
“Well-loved ovens can see a buildup of food and residue, which is why one [viral] TikToker shared a hack to clean the appliance with a paste made up of fairy liquid, baking soda and vinegar,” he said.
“The cleaning method involves using a large amount of each ingredient to make the paste, which is applied to oven racks, glass, and anywhere else with grease built up inside the oven.
“This is then left overnight and cleaned off.”
Ayres said that the night shift cleaning job could be overkill for those looking for a fresher oven.
“This hack is time-consuming from the offset,” Ayres said.
“Standard oven cleaners and degreasers can get the same results with minimal mess.
“Also, baking soda is a mild abrasive and shouldn’t be used to clean scratch-proof surfaces like glass.”