In the digital age, social media has become a space for creativity, expression, and sometimes risky behaviors. Users frequently develop ingenious strategies, known as “hacks,” to optimize their presence on platforms. However, one such hack involving the cleaning product Fabuloso has caught the attention of experts for its unconventional and potentially harmful application.
TikTok’s Latest Fabuloso Cleaning Hack Raises Concerns
Beware of this bathroom cleaning hack trending on TikTok—experts are warning it could cost you dearly in the long run.
Cleaning professionals are urging caution over a viral TikTok trend where users pour or place bottles of Fabuloso cleaner directly into their toilet tanks.
In TikTok clips with over 30 million views, users are shown pouring the cleaner into the tank or submerging the entire bottle inside. The product activates when the toilet is flushed, filling the bowl with bubbles and fresh scents like lavender, lemon, watermelon, or citrus.
“It might be tempting to create visually striking content, but hacks like this can potentially cause more harm than the creator realizes or admits,” said Mary Gagliardi, in-house scientist and cleaning expert at Clorox, speaking to Better Homes & Gardens.
@mommapeaches5 #cleantoilet #cleaner #fabuloso #cleantok #fy #fypageシ #foryoup #foru #fyppp #foryoupage #tiktok #fyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy #fyp #fyppp ♬ original sound – Mommapeaches5
This cleaning hack can damage the toilet, irritate skin and eyes, and lead to excessive buildup in drains, potentially resulting in costly repairs.
A Growing Social Media Phenomenon
According to We Are Social, in 2024, active social media users surpassed 5 billion—62.3% of the global population—after adding 266 million new users in the previous year, representing a 5.6% growth rate.
Despite its popularity, experts strongly advise against such practices. “We don’t recommend placing Fabuloso or any other multi-purpose cleaner into the toilet tank,” stated experts from Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. “These cleaners can be corrosive and degrade the rubber gasket and tank seal, causing leaks and increasing water bills.”
Health and Safety Hazards
Gagliardi also pointed out that since most bathrooms lack proper ventilation, infusing cleaning products containing harsh chemicals into toilet tanks can create hazardous breathing conditions.
Nonetheless, the warnings didn’t stop content creator @mommapeaches5 from trying the hack herself. In a resurfaced TikTok video, she demonstrates the process, which has amused plumbers online—but for the wrong reasons.
Plumbers React
Under her viral video, tradespeople sarcastically encouraged the trend, joking that it keeps their business thriving.
“As a plumber, I hope everyone does this so I’ll have work for the rest of my life,” one plumber quipped.
“The fact that people are searching ‘don’t put Fabuloso in the toilet,’” another noted wryly.
“The way plumbers are openly praying for your downfall—this is why I love the internet,” joked a TikToker.
“Fabuloso: Keeping plumbers employed since 2019!” someone else chimed in.
Experts Offer Safer Alternatives
Instead of relying on a local plumber to fix a preventable problem, Gagliardi recommends using products specifically designed for toilet cleaning.
“Ultimately, only products specifically formulated for use in the toilet bowl or tank should be used,” Gagliardi told Better Homes & Gardens. “Following instructions is crucial to ensure the product works as intended and is used safely.”
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