TikTok Cleaning Hacks Tested: PASS or FAIL? Real #CleanTok Results

TikTok Cleaning Hacks: PASS or FAIL? We Tested Viral #CleanTok Trends So You Don’t Have To

If your For You Page looks anything like ours, you’ve probably fallen down the #CleanTok rabbit hole. Endless satisfying transformations. Clever shortcuts. And cleaning hacks that promise miracle results with almost zero effort.

But here’s the real question.

Do viral TikTok cleaning hacks actually work in real life, or are they just made to look impressive on camera?

We tested some of the most popular trends to separate the PASS from the FAIL.

Want to explore the trends while you read? Browse #CleanTok on TikTok.

PASS: Lemon Steam Microwave Cleaning

Explore the trend: lemon microwave cleaning

The hack

Place lemon slices in a bowl of water, heat it in the microwave to create steam, then wipe away loosened grime.

Does it work?

Yes. The steam softens dried food splatter and helps neutralise odours, making everyday cleaning quicker and easier.

CleanHQ tip

Steam loosens the mess but does not fully remove grease. Follow up with Astonish Grease Lift to properly cut through leftover grease and leave the surface genuinely clean.

Verdict: PASS.

PASS (WITH LIMITS): Toothpaste for Shower Glass

Explore the trend: toothpaste shower glass

The hack

Use white toothpaste as a polishing cleaner for shower glass or stainless steel.

Does it work?

Surprisingly yes for light water spots and residue because toothpaste contains mild abrasives. But it is not ideal for regular cleaning as abrasives may cause micro scratching over time.

CleanHQ tip

A purpose made glass cleaner gives a safer, streak free shine. And if you want that freshly cleaned look to last longer, a quick daily spray of Astonish Daily Shower Shine Whites & Lilies helps prevent watermarks and soap build up, meaning you can stretch out the time between deep cleans.

Verdict: PASS (with caution).

FAIL: Dryer Sheets for Soap Scum

Explore the trend: dryer sheet shower door

The hack

Use used dryer sheets to wipe soap scum off shower screens.

Does it work?

Not really. It might remove very light residue but struggles against real mineral build up and stubborn soap scum.

CleanHQ tip

A dedicated limescale remover will cut through build up much faster and with less effort. And we just happen to have a great one... Astonish Lime Blast

Verdict: FAIL.

PASS: Baking Soda and Vinegar Toilet Fizz

Explore the trend: baking soda vinegar toilet

The hack

Combine baking soda and vinegar to create a fizzing toilet clean.

Does it work?

Yes for maintenance cleaning. The fizzing action helps lift light grime and freshen the bowl. However it does not provide a full hygienic clean on its own.

CleanHQ tip

For deeper cleaning and lasting freshness, follow up with Astonish Toilet Bowl Fizz & Fresh Tabs Eucalyptus 8 Pack. The fizzing action helps lift grime below the waterline while keeping your toilet smelling fresh, making it an easy upgrade from DIY mixes.

Verdict: PASS (for light cleaning).

PASS: Dishwasher Tablet Deep Clean for Baked On Grease

Explore the trend: dishwasher tablet cleaning hack

The hack

Use a dishwasher tablet with warm water to scrub baked on grease from oven trays, glass dishes or heavily soiled surfaces.

Does it work?

Yes. Dishwasher tablets are designed to break down grease and food residue, which makes them surprisingly effective on stubborn build up.

CleanHQ tip

While this hack works, using a dedicated degreaser will cut through heavy grease faster and with less scrubbing. Shop: Astonish Grease Lift

Verdict: PASS.

FAIL: Mixing Multiple Cleaning Products

Explore the trend: mixing cleaning products

The hack

Combine multiple cleaners together for a stronger deep clean.

Does it work?

No. And it can be unsafe. Mixing chemicals may create harmful fumes or reduce cleaning effectiveness.

CleanHQ tip

Stick to one purpose built product at a time for safer and better results. If you want an antibacterial all rounder, browse: Fabulosa antibacterial options

Verdict: FAIL.

Why Some #CleanTok Hacks Work (And Others Don’t)

Cleaning TikTok is built for visual impact. Some hacks genuinely simplify cleaning. Others look dramatic but don’t deliver real world results.

Before trying any viral trend, ask yourself:

• Is it safe for the surface?
• Is there actual cleaning science behind it?
• Would a purpose made product do this faster?

The CleanHQ Verdict

We love CleanTok because it makes cleaning feel fun, motivating and oddly satisfying. But the best results come from combining clever shortcuts with the right products.

PASS hacks save time.
FAIL hacks waste time.

And if a hack involves mixing random chemicals, it’s probably best left on your For You Page.