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It's no secret that not all TikTok cleaning trends actually work. And unfortunately, there's another viral cleaning hack that could ruin your furniture. Popular TikTok videos talk about cleaning sofas, headboards, and other upholstery with detergent pods.
While this trend isn't dangerous like the Tide Pod challenge videos of the 2010s, it's still unnecessary. And it can cause lasting damage to your upholstered furniture , not to mention skin irritation and respiratory problems.
If you haven't seen the viral videos with the hashtag #cleantok, we're going to break them down. Read on to learn what it means, why it's not worth trying, and how you can better keep your upholstered furniture clean.
What is the trend in Tide pod cleaning?
As the name suggests, the technique involves cleaning furniture using laundry pods. In the viral videos, the creators place a pod in a container and pour boiling water directly over it so that it begins to dissolve. Then take a cleaning rag or kitchen towel, wrap it tightly around the lid of a small pot and dip the flat side into the soap solution.
Next, the creators of the video clean their fabric furniture using the fabric-covered pot lid. The immediate effects seem impressive as visible blemishes and blemishes seem to magically disappear. And designers often add that their sofas smell divine once they're finished. But in reality, the consequences are short-lived and result in permanent damage to the furniture and your family, especially your pets!
Why is the Tide Pod Cleaning Trend a Bad Idea?
If you read the comments on these videos, you'll notice that many viewers are skeptical about the cleaning technique or completely disappointed with the results after trying it at home. And while many other people have said this tip works wonders, it's a quick fix that will actually damage your furniture over time. There are two main reasons why we don't recommend trying this trend.
1. Causes premature wear of furniture
Viral TikTok videos are attractive because you can see spots and dirt disappear. But instant gratification doesn't justify long-term wear and tear. Because the makeshift cleaning tool is soaked in water and a strong chemical, rubbing it firmly on the fabric can cause pilling. Worse still, moisture can penetrate the fibers and cause mold to form. Before you know it, your furniture could suffer irreparable damage. As anyone who has ever bought a sofa knows, sofas are an investment , so shortening their lifespan is not a wise decision.
2. Causes skin irritation.
Laundry capsules are highly concentrated and suitable for washing the clothes of an entire family. Therefore, using an entire capsule on a single piece of furniture leaves quite a bit of chemical residue all over the surface. You, your children, your guests and possibly your pets sit or lie on the same surface. This is particularly harmful to people with skin sensitivities or allergies. This can lead to rashes, dermatitis, or other problems over time. Additionally, the lingering smell can irritate a person's respiratory system or cause headaches in those who are sensitive to strong odors.
Best Ways to Clean Upholstered Furniture
Now that you know the potential risks associated with using Tide Pods on upholstered furniture, it's wiser to err on the side of caution and skip the trick altogether. If your sofa desperately needs a thorough cleaning, there are alternative, safer ways to do it.
If you've already tried the wash pod method, TikTok commenters recommend vacuuming the entire surface with a vacuum or carpet vacuum . This will help absorb any remaining moisture and detergent residue.
However, the ideal is to skip the modules and go straight to one of the following methods for cleaning furniture. Always check the cleaning instructions (there are four in total) or the manufacturer before trying anything on new furniture. A potentially easier solution is to simply remove the sofa cushion covers (if available) and wash them separately.
How to clean microfiber or cotton
The first step is to remove as much pet hair, dirt, or crumbs as possible with a vacuum cleaner. Then, depending on the manufacturer's label, you can treat the stains by rubbing them with a mixture of water and mild dish soap, isopropyl alcohol, or a cleaner specifically made for upholstered furniture.
How to clean velvet
This velvet furniture cleaning process is not much different than microfiber cleaning. However, keep in mind that you must be very careful when vacuuming so as not to damage the more delicate velvet. Treat stains as quickly as possible with a little soapy water and a soft cloth in one direction. You can also steam the fabric to smooth the fabric, or use a brush to remove lint and dirt to reduce the frequency of vacuuming.
How to clean clothes
As with velvet, it's best to use a light touch when treating linen furniture. Mix small amounts of clear dish soap, baking soda, and white vinegar to form a paste. Gently rub the dirty areas, let the mixture work for a moment and then vacuum completely.
How to clean polyester
Depending on the label, you can use a commercial cleaner made for polyester or make a homemade solution using warm water, mild detergent, and white vinegar. After cleaning dirty areas, smooth the fabric with a soft-bristled brush.
How to clean wool
Although wool lining is quite durable, it is recommended to clean it with water only. First, run a vacuum cleaner or hood over the fabric, then rub the stains in a circular motion using a microfiber cloth dampened with warm water.
How to clean the caterpillar
Chenille is delicate because it can absorb moisture more quickly than other materials. Therefore, it is important to treat spills immediately by soaking them up with a dry towel and applying spot treatment if necessary, emphasizing that they are safe for use on the track. Do not leave it on longer than directed before drying the cleaner.
