'CHEMICAL BURNS'
WE all want to live in a clean and tidy house and many people flock to social media to delve into the newest trends to do so.
Whether it's how to change bed sheets or the best washing machine setting to use - there's usually a hack for it.
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One current craze which is sweeping TikTok at the moment though is 'product overload'.
Those who use the platform specifically for cleaning will be familiar with the 'CleanTok' corner of the site.
But this newest trend, experts have warned, could cause damage to your health - including extreme burns to the skin.
Product overload involves people using an assortment of cleaning liquids in either a toilet, bath or sink.
Now one doctor has warned that this trend could put you at risk of skin and respiratory issues.
Medical toxicologist, Dr Kelly Johnson-Arbor said it can be particularly dangerous - especially if you're not using the correct equipment.
Dr Johnson-Arbor, who is the medical director at the National Poison Center in the US explained that cleaning products can have a very high, basic Ph.
This is the measure of how acidic something is.
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Speaking to Good Housekeeping, the guru said that skin irritation can be expected due to direct exposure.
"People should wear rubber gloves when using these products, as skin irritation, including redness and pain or even chemical burns, can occur after use", she advised.
The expert also warned that mixing chemicals together could cause respiratory issues.
She explained: "Mixing bleach and ammonia causes the release of chloramine gas, and mixing bleach and toilet bowl cleaner can trigger the release of chlorine gas.
"Inhalation of either of these can cause coughing, irritation of the nose and throat, and trouble breathing; for those with asthma, COPD or lung disease, serious respiratory problems can occur and can even result in death."
OPEN UP
For many partaking in the trend, Dr Johnson-Arbor said they might not be aware of the fact that their bathrooms don't have adequate ventilation.
Proper ventilation in the form of fans and windows can help the odours that arise when chemicals dissipate.
The guru added that without this, fumes can become concentrated - which in turn increases the risk of respiratory toxicity.
If you do want to try out the trends, then Dr Johnson-Arbor said you should be wearing gloves and a mask - which is something that isn't seen in many of the TikTok videos.
It's important to note that you shouldn't use any products without following the instructions.
While it might prove to make great content for social media, she also warned that children could see this as a game or look at the liquid as something to be digested.
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Many of the products are also packaged in a colourful way.
In order to prevent little ones seeking out the products, always store them in a locked cupboard or somewhere that you child would not be able to access.
Cleaning hacks and tips
Here are some tips to help you clean your home like a pro:
- How to clean your washing machine in a few easy steps
- Keep on top of cleaning your oven regularly
- Clean your shower to ensure it's always sparkling
- How to clean your microwave using cheap household items
- Here's how to get rid of that nasty limescale in your kettle
- You're cleaning your carpet all wrong - here's how to get it spotless again in no time
- Unblock a toilet without a plunger
- These are five hacks to ensure your kitchen is spotless
- If you haven't cleaned your mattress in ages, here's how
- Steps to cleaning your dishwasher to leave it looking brand new
- This is how to clean mirrors and windows without streaking
- These simple items will make your carpet clean and look brand new
- Keep your toilet clean in four easy steps
- Give your TV screen a once-over