You’ve seen the viral videos – on TikTok, on Instagram, Facebook, maybe even on your favourite morning shows. The oh-so easy cleaning “hacks” that promise to solve all of your grit and grime woes in the simplest of ways, using readily available products that almost all of us will have in our cupboards. Now, hands up if you’re guilty of trying one?
Look, the truth is, we’re all for a speedy solution that minimises time spent slopping up spills and stains – truthfully, we’ve even tried and tested some ourselves. But according to experts, the success and effectiveness of these so-called hacks shouldn’t always be bought into so easily – in fact, some of them could actually be doing some serious damage!
We asked the experts at bespoke cleaning and housekeeping company, Jetlag Remedy, to reveal the things they wish you’d stop trying at home. So, here are 5 cleaning hacks to avoid at all costs.
Keeping your kitchen clean is no mean feat – but beware the shortcut.
(Photography: Damian Bennett | Story: real living)1. PUTTING A SPONGE IN THE MICROWAVE
That gross sponge that usually sits dormant in your sink? Imagine if you could pop it in the microwave and pull out a like-new version, saving you money, time and effort. Unfortunately, it’s not so simple, says Simone Tsigolis of Jetlag Remedy. “This cleaning hack is often used to kill bacteria on a sponge. However, it can be unsafe and potentially even become a fire hazard,” she explains. Oops!
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“Microwaving sponges can lead to overheating and ignition of certain materials in the sponge. Additionally, it may not effectively eliminate all bacteria present. We recommend replacing your sponges regularly (every few weeks) and sanitising them by soaking in a solution of water and bleach or running them through a dishwasher on a hot cycle.”
BRB – off to replace our sponges that are definitely a little over a few weeks old.
2. USING LEMON JUICE TO CLEAN STAINLESS STEEL
Resilient, easy to care for and sleek, many opt for stainless steel benches in a kitchen for very good reason. But if that’s you, for the love of God, put down that lemon. “While lemon juice is commonly believed to clean and shine stainless steel surfaces, it can actually cause damage,” shares Simone.
“The acidic nature of lemon juice can corrode the protective layer on stainless steel, leading to discoloration and pitting (holes) over time. Instead, opt for a stainless steel cleaner (which you can purchase from a supermarket) or a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water to maintain the shine without causing harm.”
Don’t ruin the sleek and sophisticated nature of your stainless steel bench – put down the lemon wedge!
(Photography: Pablo Veiga | Styling: Kerrie-Ann Jones | Story: Inside Out)3. CAN YOU MIX VINEGAR AND BLEACH?
Say it with me now: NO!!! While both vinegar and bleach are toted to be incredibly effective and powerful household cleaners, together, they are bad news. “This mixture can produce toxic chlorine gas, which can be extremely harmful when inhaled. It is essential to avoid this combination as it poses serious health risks,” tells Simone.
Instead, Simone suggests using vinegar and bleach separately in well-ventilated areas, always following the instructions on the product labels. However, if you’re tackling mould, you may need to consider a different method: “Remember, bleach only masks the mould – it does not kill it!”
4. USING NEWSPAPER TO CLEAN WINDOWS
Recommended as a hack to save money, newspaper has sometimes been said to be an effective tool for window washing, with some experts claiming it to be more absorbent than paper towel. However, Simone says that it’s best to leave The Sydney Morning Herald for crosswords and a cup of tea.
“Using newspaper to clean windows may seem like an economical choice, but it can leave behind ink residue and streaks on the glass,” she explains. “Instead, opt for microfibre cloths or lint-free paper towels paired with a streak-free glass cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar. These alternatives will provide a clearer and more effective result.”
We know it can be tempting to weaponise every single potent cleaning product under the sun to bring your bathroom back to beautiful, but just… don’t.
(Photography: Abbie Melle | Styling: Steve Cordony | Story: Country Style)5. USING HAIRSPRAY TO REMOVE STAINS
A beauty product that doubles as an effective stain buster? We love to see it. But, the reality is, we don’t. “Hairspray is sometimes suggested as a stain remover for fabrics or even texta on walls (thanks kids!). However, it often contains alcohol and other chemicals that can further set the stain or damage the fabric/paint,” Simone warns.
Instead, she recommends blotting the stain gently with a clean cloth or sponge followed by a specialised stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water. “Always follow the fabric care instructions and test any new cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the stain.”
ABOUT JETLAG REMEDY
Founder Simone and her team of highly meticulous cleaners spend their time helping time-poor people keep a tidy and thoroughly clean home in a way that is, above all, safe.
You can find them and explore their services online at jetlagremedy.com.au, or DM them on Instagram @jetlagremedy
