TikTok has become the go-to platform for just about everything: recipes, fashion, life advice, and yes, even cleaning. With hashtags like #CleanTok racking up billions of views, it’s clear that viewers are hooked on the oddly satisfying visuals of grime disappearing, sparkling transformations, and oddly specific hacks involving household products. But how many of these viral cleaning tips actually work? And when should you stop scrubbing and just call a professional?
Let’s dive into some of the most popular TikTok cleaning hacks, test their validity, and explore when it’s better to bring in experts to get the job done right.
Vinegar and Baking Soda: TikTok’s Favorite Power Duo
The Hack
Mixing vinegar and baking soda is hailed as the ultimate natural cleaning combo. TikTokers use it to clean everything from toilets and sinks to mattresses and ovens. It’s popular because it’s affordable, accessible, and offers that fun, fizzy reaction that looks great on video.
Does It Work?
Kind of. The reaction creates fizz, which can help dislodge dirt and grime, especially in drains or mildly stained surfaces. However, the combination neutralizes itself chemically, meaning it won’t disinfect or cut grease effectively. For general freshening, it’s fine, but don’t expect miracles.
When to Call the Pros
If you’re dealing with persistent odors, mold, or grime that doesn’t go away after repeated treatments, it’s time to bring in a professional. Mildew buildup in tile grout, years of soap scum in a shower, or gunk in your drains can’t be solved with pantry staples alone. Yaalee Cleaning offers best cleaning services in Glen Burnie, MD that address these stubborn issues using the right tools and products for lasting results.
Toilet Bowl Tablets in the Tank
The Hack
Drop a blue cleaning tablet into the toilet tank for fresh scent and continuous cleaning every flush. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it solution that looks good in videos and promises a sparkling bowl.
Does It Work?
While it may keep your toilet looking cleaner for longer, plumbers and cleaning experts caution that these tablets can corrode parts inside the tank. The dye also doesn’t mean the bowl is truly clean; it just masks buildup. It’s more about maintenance than true sanitation.
When to Call the Pros
If your toilet has calcium build-up, limescale stains, or rings below the water line, you need a proper scrub-down with commercial-grade descaling agents. Professional cleaners can restore the appearance of your bathroom fixtures while ensuring they stay functional and fresh. Don’t let a cosmetic fix hide bigger problems.
Dishwasher Pods in the Washing Machine
The Hack
Some TikTokers recommend tossing a dishwasher pod into your washing machine for an easy clean. It supposedly clears gunk from the drum and gets rid of unpleasant smells.
Does It Work?
Technically, yes. Dishwasher pods contain surfactants that can break down residue. But these products are formulated for dishwashers not washing machines so repeated use could damage seals and void your appliance warranty.
When to Call the Pros
If your washer smells musty or has built-up detergent scum and mold, a deep appliance cleaning is needed. Professionals use safe, manufacturer-recommended methods and tools to restore freshness without risk to your equipment.
Lemon in the Microwave Trick
The Hack
Heat a bowl of lemon water in the microwave for 3–5 minutes to loosen food splatters and make wiping easier. The steam releases grime while the lemon adds a fresh scent.
Does It Work?
Absolutely. The acidity of lemon helps cut through light grease and the steam softens stuck-on messes. It’s a safe, non-toxic method that requires minimal effort.
When to Call the Pros
If your microwave has caked-on residue, burn marks, or has gone months without a proper clean, you may need more than lemon water. Professional cleaners can thoroughly sanitize and degrease appliances inside and out. It’s also worth considering a full kitchen clean if multiple appliances are overdue.
Scrubbing Walls with a Broom
The Hack
Attach a cloth or towel to a broom and use it to clean walls without a ladder. This allows users to reach high corners and dust-covered areas without much effort.
Does It Work?
Yes, for dusting and wiping down surface dirt. But it lacks the pressure and precision needed for stains, splatters, or buildup from smoke or humidity. Plus, it doesn’t clean baseboards, molding, or textured surfaces well.
When to Call the Pros
For full wall cleaning like post-renovation residue, cooking grease near stoves, or general dinginess professionals use safe solutions that won’t damage paint or wallpaper. A trained cleaner knows which products to use on matte, satin, or glossy finishes without leaving streaks.
Ice Cubes to Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades
The Hack
Toss ice cubes into the disposal with a bit of lemon to clean and “sharpen” the blades. It’s an oddly satisfying video category on CleanTok.
Does It Work?
Partially. The ice helps knock off gunk and lemon freshens odors, but disposal blades aren’t actually sharpened in the process. It’s a good maintenance trick, but it’s not a substitute for deep cleaning.
When to Call the Pros
If you still notice foul smells or clogs, it could be due to buildup deep in the plumbing or bacteria. A cleaning service can sanitize the disposal, surrounding sink area, and even check for potential mold. Regular pro-level sanitation extends the life of your disposal unit.
Toothpaste to Remove Wall Scuffs
The Hack
Use non-gel toothpaste and a damp cloth to erase scuff marks on painted walls. TikTokers claim it works like magic.
Does It Work?
Yes, for light scuffs and on light-colored walls. The mild abrasiveness lifts surface dirt without damaging the paint. But darker paint finishes, older stains, or deep marks won’t come off easily and excessive scrubbing could leave a faded patch.
When to Call the Pros
If you’re preparing your home for sale, hosting guests, or doing a seasonal refresh, professionals can provide a more uniform and safe wall clean. They’ll know how to remove marks without risking paint damage or discoloration. They can also spot when touch-up painting is a better solution.
Final Thoughts: The CleanTok Balance
TikTok cleaning hacks are fun to watch and can be useful in a pinch. But viral videos often oversimplify messy problems and using the wrong technique can do more harm than good. That’s where professional cleaning services come in.
