Mixing cleaning supplies can be dangerous
getty
Experts are warning of the dangers of several ‘cleaning hacks’ circulating on TikTok that could lead to anything from chemical burns to explosions.
While common household chemicals can often be used to get a home sparkling clean, using them in combination can be highly risky. Despite this, many videos fail to mention the dangers, instead promoting them as ‘safe, budget-friendly’ solutions.
Most people are aware that mixing bleach and vinegar creates chlorine gas, which can lead to breathing difficulties, chest pain, lung damage and – in high concentrations – even death.
However, some cleaning influencers still recommend a combination of bleach and lemon juice in posts such as this one, which has received around 750 likes. “Lemon and bleach go together hand in hand,” said the poster.
However, this is just as dangerous as mixing bleach and vinegar, as lemon juice is an acid too, and will trigger a similar chemical reaction.
And other combinations of household chemicals can be dangerous too.
A mixture of baking soda and vinegar, for example, is often recommended as a method of cleaning drains – as in this TikTok video that gained 32,200 likes.
However, if the mixture is stored in a closed container, it can build up pressure and explode. And even pouring the two ingredients down a drain separately can create pressure that damages, rather than cleans, the pipes.
Several TikTok videos, meanwhile, recommend combining hydrogen peroxide and vinegar – this one, for instance, which has received nearly 2,000 likes.
However, doing this creates peracetic acid, which can cause skin burns, eye damage and respiratory problems.
“Some of these so-called ‘cleaning hacks’ are nothing short of chemical warfare in your own home. Mixing the wrong products can create lethal gases or even trigger explosions,” warned Derek Bruce, a health and safety expert at safety training provider SMSTS Course.
“Just because something has a million views doesn’t mean it’s safe. If you’re unsure, always check with official health and safety guidance before trying any chemical mix.”
Other ‘cleaning hacks’ represent a fire risk, according to Electrical Safety First.
One, for example, which has been viewed more than 43,000 times, shows a user cleaning an air fryer by putting a dishwasher tablet in the drawer and running the appliance.
“Running an air fryer with water in it can damage the appliance and potentially cause a fire due to the shorting of electrical components and risk electric shock,” said Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First.
“Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best way to clean your appliance.”
This post was created with our nice and easy submission form. Create your post!
