The recent popularity of DIY cleaning hacks circulating on social platforms like TikTok has indeed revolutionized our homecare routines. One such hack that’s been making waves is the use of dish soap to clean laundry machines. This unorthodox method promises to keep the machines clean, fresh, and functioning smoothly with minimum input and maximum results. Let’s dive deeper into this DIY washing machine cleaner.
What is the TikTok washing machine cleaning hack all about?
The TikTok washing machine cleaning hack relies on one household staple – dish soap. The premise of this viral cleaning method suggests that a few spoonfuls of good-quality dish soap are enough to keep the laundry machine clean and fresh.
To embark on this low-cost cleaning routine, you first need to empty your washing machine. Next, add 1-2 tablespoons of dish soap into the drum of your washing machine. Set the machine to its longest and hottest cycle, then let it do the work.
The dish soap will foam up, cutting through any dirt, grime, or discharge that might be clinging to the inside of your machine. This popular cleaning hack suggests that after the cycle, your washing machine should come out looking cleaner and smelling fresher.
The potential downsides of this method
While this method is undoubtedly low-cost and straightforward, some potential downsides should be considered. Firstly, washing machines are specifically designed to function with designated cleaning products. Dish soap, though potent, is not formulated for use in laundry machines and can result in excessive suds, causing potential damage to the machine.
Some manufacturers and cleaning professionals have warned against the use of dish soap, arguing that it could corrode particular parts of a washing machine. Therefore, before rolling up your sleeves and pouring in the dish soap, please consider checking with your machine’s manufacturer for the best cleaning practices.
More sustainable and innovative alternatives
There are many eco-friendly options available that can help you clean your washing machine without compromising your dedication to sustainability. Researching and investing in green cleaning strategies can significantly contribute to a cleaner and healthier household.
One alternative is using baking soda and vinegar. Both substances are natural, widely available, cheap, and proven to be remarkably effective in cleaning. Plus, they are far less detrimental to the environment compared to dish soaps that might contain harmful chemicals.
Cleaning the washing machine with a combination of baking soda and vinegar is as easy as using dish soap. As a ballpark idea, you can use 2 cups of vinegar and ¼ cup of baking soda. Put the mixture into your washing machine and run the longest cycle at the hottest temperature.
From solar energy to natural cleaning practices like using vinegar and baking soda, sustainable living involves a series of choices in line with a more eco-friendly lifestyle. This TikTok DIY hack is undoubtedly an innovative approach, but one must consider the potential environmental impact and the possibility of unintentional damage.
While TikTok and other such platforms can introduce us to innovative and budget-friendly ways of managing our homes, it’s important to remember that not all that glitters is gold. The commitment to sustainable living requires consistent learning, experimenting, and sometimes skepticism when it comes to practices that might be more popular than they are sustainable or safe.
When the world is rapidly moving towards innovative and eco-friendly solutions, from energy production to housekeeping, it’s our collective responsibility to be on the lookout for better, smarter, and greener ways to do our part. So, let’s remain open and enthusiastic about such hacks and remember to look for the silver lining in each cloud while we power-wash those clouds away.
Emma Johnson is a passionate and insightful writer specializing in the house and garden niche, bringing over a decade of experience to her readers. At the youthful age of 34, Emma has already established herself as a leading voice in home improvement, landscaping, and interior design. Her journey began with a degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia, followed by years of hands-on experience working with renowned landscaping firms across the country.
Emma’s writing career took off when she started sharing her unique ideas and eco-friendly gardening tips on her personal blog. Her ability to blend practical advice with aesthetic design quickly garnered attention, leading to her current position as a featured columnist for a prominent online news site.
Dedicated to sustainable living and innovative design, Emma’s articles offer a wealth of knowledge, from DIY home projects to the latest trends in garden technology. Her work not only enlightens homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the environment.
When she’s not writing or experimenting in her own garden, Emma enjoys mentoring young designers and participating in community beautification projects. Her contributions extend beyond her written work, embodying her commitment to making the world a more beautiful and sustainable place, one home at a time.
