The Dark Side of Viral Cleaning Hacks: What TikTok Won’t Tell You!
In the age of social media, cleaning has gone from a chore to a trend. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are full of cleaning hacks, DIY solutions, and “CleanTok” time-lapses that promise miraculous results with minimal effort.
But while some of these tips are genuinely helpful, others are risky, misleading, or even dangerous.
As a professional domestic cleaning company, we’ve seen first hand the consequences of viral cleaning advice gone wrong. Here’s what you—and your home—need to be cautious about.
1. Mixing Chemicals = Hidden Danger
One of the most common (and dangerous) mistakes seen in viral videos is mixing household cleaners without understanding the chemical reactions involved.
Examples:
- Bleach + vinegar = chlorine gas (toxic when inhaled)
- Bleach + toilet cleaner = fumes that can burn the lungs
- Baking soda + vinegar = dramatic fizz, but neutralizes both and does little actual cleaning
Just because it foams or smells fresh doesn’t mean it’s effective—or safe!
2. TikTok = Entertainment, Not Expertise
Many creators aren’t cleaning professionals. Their content is often designed for views and likes, not safe or effective results.
- Unvetted advice: Some “hacks” are based on myths or half-truths.
- One-size-fits-all tips: Using lemon on stone surfaces, for instance, can etch and damage natural materials like marble or granite.
- Overuse of products: Soaking fabric in disinfectants may lead to skin irritation or fabric damage.
Your home deserves more than internet guesswork!
3. Damage to Surfaces & Appliances
What looks satisfying in a 15-second video can cost you in repairs.
Common Issues:
- Magic erasers scratch glossy or delicate surfaces if used too harshly.
- Toilet cleaning bombs (often with blue food dye) stain ceramic and plastic.
- Foil in the dishwasher trick (to make cutlery “shinier”) can void your warranty or harm filters.
What seems like a “cheap trick” can become an expensive mistake!
4. Wasteful or Overcomplicated Routines
Some viral hacks involve multiple steps or excessive use of products you don’t need:
- Using six products where one will do
- Cleaning routines that take 3–4 hours daily—unrealistic for most
- Highly fragranced items that trigger allergies or asthma in small homes with poor ventilation
Minimalism often wins. Less product, more technique!
Safer Alternatives: What We Recommend
Instead of jumping on the latest trend, try:
- Microfibre cloths + warm soapy water for most surfaces
- Using eco-certified, fragrance-free products for kitchens and bathrooms
- Following manufacturer guidelines for ovens, floors, and furniture
- Consulting a professional (like us!) for deep cleans, limescale build up and maintenance cleans
Final Thought
TikTok hacks might look impressive—but they’re no substitute for real knowledge, experience, and care. At Cleaning Queen, we love innovation—but only when it’s safe, proven, and actually effective.
Let’s leave the entertainment to influencers and the elbow grease to the experts!
Whether you're welcoming a cleaner for the first time or having a regular clean, knowing how to prepare your home for a cleaning service can save time, reduce stress, and improve results. As an established cleaning company serving homes across East Anglia, we’ve compiled our top recommendations to help you get the most from every visit. We understand that not everyone is able to prep and you definitely don't have to, it's your own preference but it does save time, therefore money and your cleaner can complete more cleaning rather than tidying. Why Preparation Matters Hiring a professional cleaning service doesn’t mean you need to scrub before they arrive—but a few simple steps can help cleaners focus on the cleaning. Our customers often ask: Do I need to tidy up before a cleaner arrives? Should I leave out my own cleaning products? Will they clean around clutter or organise things? This blog answers those questions and more. 1. Tidy Up, Don’t Deep Clean You don’t need to clean before the cleaners—that’s our job! But light tidying is highly recommended. What to do: Pick up toys, clothes, paperwork, or other clutter from floors and countertops. Wash up any dishes and put away. Remove personal items from bathroom counters. Why? Tidying frees up surfaces and floors so cleaners c an vacuum, dust and polish eff iciently without needing to move lots of items. 2. Clear Kitchen & Bathroom Surfaces Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most time-intensive areas to clean—especially in UK homes where limescale and grime build up quickly. What helps: Remove dirty dishes and food items from counters. Take toothbrushes, razors, or cosmetics off the sink area. Keep on top of stray hairs. Pro tip: use a squeegee after showering to remove the water and reduce limescale building up. 3. Secure Pets & Provide Access At Cleaning Queen we love pets—but they can be distracting. On the day of cleaning: Let us know if pets will be home (especially if they’re reactive or nervous). Keep pets in a separate room or garden if possible. Ensure keys, alarm codes, or access instructions are communicated in advance if you won’t be in. Some clients also leave out pet-safe floor sprays—we're happy to use these when requested. 4. Make Special Requests in Advance Want us to focus on skirting boards, deep bathroom scrubbing, or skip a certain room? Just let us know. Best practice: Message or email requests or you can let your cleaner know on the day if you wish as long as it fits within the timescale booked. Label any areas that should be avoided (e.g. work-from-home offices) 5. Leave Out Products (If Required) While Cleaning Queen bring their own products, clients w ith allergies, eco concerns, or pets may prefer to supply their own. We use our clients vacuum and mop so please either advise us where these are kept or leave them out for your cleaner. Options: Leave out preferred products (e.g. Method, Ecover, Zoflora) and tools (like your own mop or vacuum). Speak to your cleaner or leave a note if certain products should or shouldn't be used in certain rooms. If you’d like us to use your own products just let us know—we’re happy to do this. 6. Prep Payment & Instructions (If You're Out) If you won’t be home during the clean: Provide us with detailed instructions on access and any specific requests in advance Leave payment (if paying by cash) in a clearly labelled envelope. Ensure doors, gates or alarm systems can be operated easily. 7. Don’t Worry About Perfection! Your cleaner isn’t judging your home. We’re here to make life easier, not harder. Life gets messy—especially with children, pets, or a busy schedule. That’s exactly why you asked us to help. We recommend: Keeping open communication. Letting us know what’s most important to you. Booking regular cleans (weekly or fortnightly) for consistently clean results. Preparing for your cleaner’s visit doesn’t need to take long—but a small effort can make a big difference. With a clear space to work and clear instructions, your cleaner can deliver the sparkling results you’re paying for.
The Mental Health Benefits of a Clean and Tidy Home In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a clean and tidy home can often feel like a daunting task. However, the benefits of a well-organised living space extend far beyond aesthetics. Numerous studies have shown that a clean home can significantly improve mental health and overall well-being. Let's explore the mental health benefits of keeping your home clean and tidy, supported by facts and expert insights. 1. Reduction in Stress and Anxiety A cluttered environment can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety. According to a study published in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, individuals with cluttered homes exhibited higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol. By maintaining a tidy space, you can create a calming environment that reduces stress and promotes relaxation. 2. Improved Focus and Productivity A clean home can enhance your ability to focus and be productive. Clutter can be distracting and overwhelming, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks. A study by Princeton University Neuroscience Institute found that physical clutter in your surroundings competes for your attention, resulting in decreased performance and increased stress. A tidy home can help you stay organized and focused, boosting productivity. 3. Enhanced Mood and Happiness A clean and organised home can positively impact your mood and overall happiness. The act of cleaning itself can be a form of physical activity that releases endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. Furthermore, a tidy space can create a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, contributing to a happier state of mind. 4. Better Sleep Quality A clean bedroom environment is conducive to better sleep quality. The National Sleep Foundation recommends keeping your bedroom tidy and free of clutter to promote restful sleep. A clean and organized bedroom can help you relax and unwind, leading to improved sleep patterns and overall well-being. 5. Boosted Immune System Maintaining a clean home can also have physical health benefits that indirectly support mental health. Regular cleaning reduces the presence of allergens, dust, and germs, which can strengthen your immune system. A healthier body often leads to a healthier mind, reducing the risk of illness-related stress and anxiety. Conclusion The mental health benefits of a clean and tidy home are undeniable. By creating a clutter-free and organised living space, you can reduce stress, improve focus, enhance mood, and promote better sleep. Embrace the positive impact of cleanliness on your mental well-being and enjoy a happier, healthier life. If you need help achieving this please contact us for a free quote, we are more than happy to help. All you need to do is click on the "Get a free quote" button at the top and let us know your details. Thank you for reading, enjoy the rest of your day! Cleaning Queen HQ
The Guilt of the Modern Homeowner – Why it's time to break free from outdated expectations At Cleaning Queen we’ve spent years helping families and individuals across the UK bring calm to the chaos of modern living. And there’s one thing we hear time and time again from our customer—guilt. In today’s fast-paced world, keeping your home spotless can feel like just one more impossible task on an already overloaded to-do list. Work pressures, school runs, household chores, weekend sports, grocery shops, meal preps, and maybe—just maybe—a few minutes of downtime for yourself? The truth is, we are all stretched thin. Yet, despite all this, many homeowners still carry a lingering sense of guilt for not managing to clean the shower, hoover the stairs, or keep the kitchen looking photo-ready. Why? The Myth of the Perfect Home We live in a time of Instagram-worthy interiors and spotless Pinterest boards. It’s easy to believe that everyone else has it all together. But behind those filters and curated feeds are real people just like you—people who also struggle to balance it all. The image of the pristine home maintained entirely by a busy, full-time working parent is not just unrealistic—it’s unhealthy. At Cleaning Queen, we say it's time to let go of that myth. A clean home is important, yes—but so is your peace of mind, your time, and your health! Time Is Your Most Precious Commodity Let’s be honest: your evenings and weekends shouldn’t be spent scrubbing tiles or tackling that growing mountain of laundry. These are moments that should be spent playing with your children, catching up with friends, or simply taking a breather with a cup of tea and your feet up. Hiring a professional cleaning service isn’t a luxury now—it’s a modern solution to a modern problem. It’s not about extravagance. It’s about choosing to spend your time wisely and investing in support that helps your household run more smoothly. You’re Not Failing—You’re Delegating Outsourcing home cleaning doesn’t make you lazy. It makes you practical. We hire professionals to fix our cars, teach our children, and cut our hair. Why should the cleanliness of your home be any different? At Cleaning Queen, we’re more than just cleaners. We’re partners in helping you create a healthier, more manageable home environment. Our team is fully vetted and care about delivering sparkling results—so you can walk through your front door and breathe easy, knowing it’s been taken care of. No More Guilt—Just a Brighter Nest So here’s our message to all the busy parents, full-time professionals, carers, and anyone simply doing their best: let go of the guilt. You don’t have to do it all. And you certainly don’t have to do it alone! We’re here to take that weight off your shoulders. Your home deserves to shine—and so do you. Interested in finding out how we can help lighten your load? Get in touch for a no-obligation quote and let’s chat about how we can make your life a little easier!