A cardinal cleaning rule is that you don’t mix products unless the package explicitly tells you to do so. Combining the wrong cleaning products creates toxic gases. Mixing bleach and vinegar, for example, produces chlorine gas, which can result in breathing problems, burning eyes, blistering skin, and in some cases, fatalities.
Yet, even though many know the dangers of mixing cleaning products, a popular trend on TikTok involves “recipes” that combine multipurpose cleaners, dishwasher tabs, laundry detergent, and fabric softener.
This is One of the Worst CleanTok Hacks of All
@brandie_jimenez Tried this TikTok from @momthatlovestoclean ! Omg my house smells amazingg & my floors,walls and baseboards are so shiny #cleantok #momsoftiktok ♬ Astronaut In The Ocean – Masked Wolf
If you value your safety and that of your loved ones, don’t mix cleaning products. Dish detergents, for example, are tested on dishes — manufacturers don’t test them mixed in a bucket with a mopping solution. While not every cleaning combination is going to produce a toxic byproduct, it’s not worth the gamble.
Another reason not to mix cleaners is formulations.
A prime example is fabric softener, which coats your clothes in a thin waxy substance that reduces static cling and makes clothes softer. So, what happens when you mop your floors with a mixture containing fabric softener? Rather than cleaning, it leaves behind a thin waxy layer. You might not immediately notice this layer, but your floors will develop a white haze that will be difficult to remove after repeated use.
Use Cleaners as Intended
Dishwasher tabs break down grease and stuck on food from dishes, laundry detergent lifts dirt from fabric, and multipurpose cleaner is suitable for many hard surfaces. Combining these ingredients doesn’t boost their cleaning power. Instead, it likely does more damage to the surface you’re cleaning.
You can get your home just as clean by using products as intended. As an added benefit, you’ll save money and won’t damage your house or health in the process.
