I spend a lot of my time researching and writing about the best cleaning hacks, but when I'm not doing that, I'm probably scrolling on TikTok. So it makes sense that I came across a video of six controversial cleaning habits user Ani Vanderbeek swears by, and while commenters are divided on her top tips, I for one think they're genius.
User @annivanderbeek usually shares lifestyle and interiors content, but her video on her controversial cleaning hacks racked up nearly half a million views when she posted it in August. And if you've seen how glamorous her home is, you might be surprised that she's got such a savvy technique for keeping it looking clean and tidy!
The first three hacks all involve repurposing used fabrics such as clothes and washcloths to clean before you put them in your laundry basket. Here's why I think that's brilliant.
Daily cleaning without the stress
I've got a well-worn collection of microfiber cloths that I use for my deep cleans. From wiping down mirrors to scrubbing my sink clean of toothpaste marks, it's shocking how much dirt and grime they can pick up even on a weekly basis.
The hack is so smart because it uses one of my favorite lazy cleaning techniques: habit stacking. It's something I've been trying to integrate into my own daily routine recently: vacuuming the floors while I wait for my kettle to boil, or wiping down my waste container every time I change the bag.
Firstly, Vanderbeek shares how she uses worn clothes to wipe down surface-level dust before throwing them in the laundry basket each day, which I think is a great way of preventing dust buildup in high-traffic areas, without having to use a new microfiber cloth every day. After all, the clothes are going through the washing machine either way!
Secondly, Vanderbeek shares that she uses her washcloth to wipe down her bathroom sink after washing her makeup off in the evening. Seeing as you should probably be swapping out your washcloth each evening anyway (admittedly, this is a rare occurrence in my house), it also makes complete sense to me that you'd use it to quickly remove any splashes or grime from your sink or counters before you throw it in the laundry hamper.
But while I personally think these low-effort habits are a great way of reducing weekly dirt buildup, commenters are less convinced...
Why so controversial?
Vanderbeek acknowledges that her tips may be controversial in the caption of her video, asking viewers whether they're gross, or genius. And TikTok users were more than happy to weigh in!
One user says "It's the chemicals for cleaning. Those things leave residue. Think of it this way if hotels used the dirty hand towels to "tidy" the bathroom would you be thrilled to use it after washing your face?"
And that makes a lot of sense, but maybe I just have more faith in my washing machine than most people. Surely it should be rooting out cleaning spray and remnants of dust after each wash, anyway?
However, other users praised this habit stacking, sharing their own routines. "Yup! Every washcloth, towel, and paper towel I use in the kitchen is used to wipe down the floor, trash can, etc, before it’s taken to the laundry or thrown away. If it’s already dirty, it’s used to wipe down something dirtier."
Personally, I'm with the second commenter, but what do you think — would you use this controversial cleaning hack?
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