Cleaning Hack Goes Viral but Sparks Warnings from Experts

A new cleaning tip shared by influencer @nicmariehome has gained considerable attention on social media, but it has also incited warnings from users and experts alike. The method, which originates from Mexico, suggests using a broom soaked in a cleaning solution for scrubbing floors. While the influencer touts this technique as a path to achieving sparkling clean surfaces, many caution that it could result in damage and mould, particularly for certain types of flooring.

In a recent Instagram reel, @nicmariehome, who has over 8,700 followers, demonstrated the technique she learned from TikTok users in Mexico. The video featured her pouring cleaning solution and water over a broom before using it to scrub her floors and skirting boards. She captioned the post, “She said her abuela (grandmother) taught her this… I can’t lie, my floors have never sparkled like this! One broom scrubbing session and I’m hooked.” The post quickly went viral, amassing more than 181,000 likes.

While many viewers praised the method, several commenters voiced significant concerns. They noted that the flooring in Mexico often consists of concrete or tiles, which can handle heavier cleaning techniques without the same risks faced by wooden or laminate floors. One user warned, “For everyone with wooden floors, please don’t do this; otherwise, they will quickly soak up water and could be ruined forever.” Another commented on their own experience, stating, “As someone who just pulled a second mortgage to mitigate mould under my ‘waterproof’ floors, I do not support this message.”

Experts from Good Housekeeping provide guidance on the proper cleaning methods for various types of flooring. They emphasize that laminate floors should be vacuumed or wiped with a lightly dampened mop, and advise against using soap-based detergents, which can leave a dull film. For cleaning marks and stains, a dilute solution of water and vinegar is recommended.

When it comes to ceramic and quarry tiles, the experts suggest sweeping and washing with a mild detergent solution before rinsing with clean water or using a steam cleaner. For terracotta tiles, a specialized cleaner, sealant, and polish are necessary to maintain their quality.

Cork floors should be cleaned with a damp mop using a washing-up liquid solution, while vinyl flooring can be swept with a soft brush or vacuumed and then mopped with a mild detergent before rinsing thoroughly. Stone floors require a resin sealant to protect against staining and should be cleaned with a mild detergent solution after thorough vacuuming.

For sealed wooden floors, the recommendation is to sweep and damp-mop without excessive water, as too much moisture can cause the wood to swell and split. Unsealed and waxed floors should be swept regularly and re-polished occasionally, with wax used sparingly to avoid a tacky residue.

In terms of carpet cleaning, using a carpet cleaning machine is ideal, but for those without one, spot-treating stains with products like Dr Beckmann Carpet Stain Remover is effective. Regular vacuuming, particularly along the edges and under furniture, is essential to prevent the accumulation of dirt.

The discussion around this viral cleaning hack highlights the importance of understanding the specific needs of different flooring types. While some methods may work well in one region, they could potentially lead to long-term damage in others. As cleaning trends evolve, homeowners are encouraged to consider expert advice and their unique flooring conditions before adopting new techniques.