TikTok has become the go-to place for viral trends, from fun dance challenges to random DIY projects. One of the latest crazes to take over is CleanTok, a cleaning trend where people post videos of themselves doing over-the-top cleaning tasks with dramatic results. While these videos are super satisfying to watch, there are some hidden risks that everyone should know about before jumping in and trying CleanTok for themselves.
What is CleanTok?
CleanTok, also known as “Mexican Cleantok,” originated as a cleaning phenomenon where users would flood their floors with soap, water, and various cleaning products to create visually appealing videos filled with bubbles and foam. The goal was to achieve a perfectly clean floor by scrubbing away dirt and grime in an exaggerated, over-the-top manner. These videos are often set to upbeat music and feature satisfying “before and after” shots.
The trend first exploded in popularity in 2022 and has since taken over social media platforms, particularly TikTok. The hashtag #CleanTok has millions of videos and is filled with people from all walks of life showing off their cleaning skills. While the trend may seem harmless, it has raised concerns among both professionals and homeowners about its impact on different types of flooring.
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Is CleanTok Worth the Risk?
One of the primary concerns is the overuse of water and soap, which can cause damage to certain types of flooring. Wood floors, in particular, are highly vulnerable to excess moisture. When too much water is used, it can seep into the wood and cause it to warp, swell, or even buckle. Moisture can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which not only damages your floors but can also be harmful to your home environment.
In addition to moisture issues, the aggressive scrubbing involved in CleanTok can also create long-term damage to delicate floors. Harsh cleaning products or scrubbing with rough tools can leave scratches and dents on floors like laminate or vinyl, which are not designed to withstand excessive pressure. Even high-quality finishes can be stripped away by the use of inappropriate cleaning methods.
Experts recommend using gentler cleaning methods to avoid these issues. Instead of flooding your floor with large amounts of water and soap, it’s better to use a damp mop or a steam cleaner. These techniques allow for effective cleaning without exposing your floors to unnecessary moisture. A steam cleaner, for example, uses minimal water but still provides a deep clean, making it a safer option for delicate flooring.
How to Safely Enjoy CleanTok?
While there are risks, you can still safely enjoy CleanTok by using the right tools and moderating the amount of water you use. Instead of soaking your floor with soap and water, opt for a damp mop or microfiber cloth to avoid excess moisture that can damage your flooring.
It’s also important to choose gentle cleaning products suitable for your floor type. Harsh chemicals can harm surfaces, especially wood or laminate. Testing on a small, hidden area first can help prevent significant damage. For delicate floors, stick to cleaning methods designed for specific surfaces to maintain their quality.
