In the age of social media, it’s not uncommon for a household tip or trick to catch fire and spread like wildfire across various platforms. One such hack that has gained significant traction over the past couple of years involves a rather unconventional method of couch cleaning, where individuals vigorously scrub their sofa surfaces with a cloth-covered pot lid. The hack promises a deep clean, but at what cost?
Before you roll up your sleeves and start scrubbing, it’s time to pause and consider the advice of hygiene expert Mary Futher, also known as Madame Sweat on social media. She has recently spoken out against this viral trend, suggesting that not only is it labour-intensive, but it may also be ineffective at truly disinfecting your beloved couch.
In a social media video that counters the pot lid method, Madame Sweat advises her followers to put down the lid and pick up a clothes steamer instead. The rationale behind this recommendation is simple yet scientifically sound: the heat from the steam is capable of killing 99 per cent of bacteria, odours, dust mites, and other unhygienic elements that may have found refuge in your sofa. This method has the added benefit of being chemical-free, which is not only better for your health but also for the longevity of your furniture.
The steamer’s ability to dispatch germs without the use of harsh chemicals is a significant advantage, especially considering the potential damage that some cleaning agents can cause to delicate upholstery. However, Madame Sweat’s advice has been met with mixed reactions online. While some social media users are enthusiastic about the steamer hack, others raise valid concerns about its ability to tackle stains and dirt.
One commenter pointed out that while steam may disinfect, it doesn’t necessarily clean or remove debris embedded in the upholstery. Another suggested a two-step approach: vacuuming the furniture first to remove loose particles, followed by steam cleaning. This seems to align with most ‘how to’ guides for steam cleaning a couch, which recommends vacuuming and pre-treating stains before introducing the steamer.
When it comes to stains, such as mud, a gentle approach is key. A soft bristle brush can be used to lift the stain, followed by vacuuming and spot treatment with an upholstery cleaner or a DIY solution of dishwashing liquid and warm water. It’s crucial to blot stains rather than scrub or rub them, as the latter can exacerbate the issue.
Once the stains are addressed, the steamer can be employed to disinfect the surface. This method not only saves you from the physical exertion associated with the pot lid hack but also provides a more thorough and hygienic clean. Regular steaming, perhaps on a weekly or fortnightly basis, can help maintain a germ-free sofa.
For those in need of more intensive cleaning, spot-cleaning machines have become increasingly popular. These devices can be found at various price points, with affordable options available at retailers like Kmart. Their $99 spot cleaning machine, in particular, has gained notoriety on social media for its effectiveness in extracting dirt from sofas, often selling out due to high demand.
Have you experimented with any viral cleaning hacks? How did they work for you? Or perhaps you have some trusted cleaning methods that never fail? Share your experiences in the comments below – let’s exchange tips and learn together!
Also read: The viral spring cleaning hacks everyone needs to avoid
