Cleaning Hack Goes Viral, But Experts Warn of Damage Risks

Cleaning floors is a routine task for many households, yet recent advice from a social media influencer has sparked controversy. Influencer @nicmariehome, who shares cleaning and organizational tips with her 8,762 followers on Instagram, introduced a floor-cleaning technique she claims to have learned from TikTok users in Mexico. While her video showcasing this method garnered over 181,000 likes, numerous viewers caution against it, warning that it could lead to severe damage, including mould growth.

In her viral reel, the influencer demonstrated pouring a cleaning solution mixed with water over a broom before scrubbing her floors and skirting boards. The video included overlay text stating, “POV, you’ve been watching Mexican cleantok and decided to give the floors a broom scrubbing.” In the accompanying caption, she referenced her grandmother’s teachings, stating, “I can’t lie, my floors have never sparkled like this!”

Although some viewers praised the method, others raised alarms, particularly those with wooden floors. Critics highlighted that many homes in Mexico feature concrete or tiled flooring, which can withstand such cleaning techniques. One comment warned, “For everyone with wooden floors, please don’t do this; otherwise they will quickly soak up water and could be ruined forever.” Another user, sharing a personal experience, stated, “As someone who just pulled a second mortgage to mitigate mould under my ‘waterproof’ floors, I do not support this message.”

Expert Cleaning Recommendations for Various Floor Types

Given the mixed reactions to the influencer’s tip, experts from Good Housekeeping emphasize safer cleaning methods tailored to different types of flooring. For laminate floors, they recommend vacuuming, dusting, or using a lightly dampened mop instead of soaking the surface. It’s essential to avoid soap-based detergents, as these can leave a dull film. For stubborn stains, a diluted solution of water and vinegar proves effective.

When it comes to ceramic and quarry tiles, homeowners should sweep and wash with a mild detergent solution, followed by rinsing with clean water. Those with terracotta tiles are advised to use specialized cleaners and sealants to maintain their integrity.

Cork flooring requires a damp mop with a washing-up liquid solution, while vinyl should be swept with a soft brush or vacuumed before being wiped with a damp mop and mild detergent. As for stone floors, experts recommend protecting them with a resin sealant and cleaning them with a vacuum and a mild detergent solution.

Proper Care for Wooden and Carpet Floors

Sealed wooden floors necessitate only sweeping and damp-mopping to avoid excessive water exposure, which could lead to swelling or splitting of the wood. Unsealed and waxed floors require regular sweeping and occasional polishing, ensuring that excess wax does not create a sticky residue.

For carpet maintenance, using a carpet cleaning machine is the most effective approach. In the absence of such equipment, spot-treating stains with products like Dr Beckmann Carpet Stain Remover followed by thorough vacuuming can help maintain cleanliness. Homeowners should pay special attention to the edges of carpets and areas under radiators to prevent the formation of black lines around skirting boards.

In summary, while innovative cleaning tips can be appealing, it is crucial to evaluate their suitability for specific flooring types. Following expert recommendations can help maintain the integrity of your floors and prevent costly damage. As the popularity of cleaning hacks continues to rise, ensuring the safety and longevity of your home’s surfaces remains paramount.