This year, discussions on pets snuggling in beds, viral hacks circulating on social media, and the use of dishwasher pods dominated cleaning conversations. Each person has their own distinct approach to tidying their home, yet occasionally a new trend or idea emerges that questions our established practices. However, just because a cleaning trend gains widespread attention doesn't automatically imply it offers sound advice. In fact, many of the cleaning suggestions we highlighted in 2024 sparked debates among our readers regarding best practices in the comments section. 
Numerous articles about cleaning ignited discussions, challenged long-standing norms, and unveiled surprising insights throughout 2024.

From frequent cleaning blunders to unexpected successful trends, here are the tips that got everyone engaged.

1. Is it Necessary to Clean Your Microwave Filter? 
In early 2024, popular TikTok and Instagram clips showcased homeowners taking out and cleaning their microwave filters. Scanning the comments showed that many people were unaware these filters even existed, let alone that they require routine cleaning. Our advice: If you're just now learning about microwave filters, it's certainly time for a thorough cleaning. Microwaves have various filter types, but regardless of which you own, routine cleaning is vital to avoid grease accumulation. A dirty, obstructed filter can hinder your microwave's operation and create unpleasant smells.

2. Are Dishwasher Pods Dangerous for Your Plumbing?
Dishwasher pods provide a convenient and spill-resistant alternative to conventional dishwasher detergent. Nevertheless, there are worries about their environmental effects and the possible consequences of their thin plastic exterior on your plumbing system—opinions among our readers are divided regarding their effectiveness.
Our conclusion: The plastic film on most pods is intended to completely dissolve throughout the wash cycle, so they typically won’t pose a threat to most dishwashers. However, it’s crucial to verify compatibility with your specific dishwasher model, as using a pod that doesn’t fit properly can cause issues with soap dispensing.

3. Is Boiling Kitchen Towels an Effective Cleaning Method?
Given the daily messes and drying tasks they handle, it's reasonable to think boiling kitchen towels is a top cleaning strategy. Since kitchen towels can harbor bacteria, and heat is effective at killing germs, this idea seems sensible.
Our response: Boiling kitchen towels can indeed eradicate stubborn bacteria, making this method quite reliable. However, repeated high-heat exposure can weaken the fabric, leading to more frequent replacements. If you're fond of your towels (or enjoy collecting unique designs), a regular washing machine cycle should suffice to keep them clean and fresh.

4. Should You Let Pets Sleep with You?
After a tiring day, many pet owners relish the comfort of snuggling with their furry companions in bed. However, sharing your sleep space introduces fur, dander, and dirt into your bedding. Is this a concern?
Our response: If you love nighttime cuddles, fear not! With some extra cleaning efforts, sharing your bed can be perfectly fine. This might include washing linens more often, using additional mattress protectors, and choosing laundry products designed for stains and disinfection.

5. Can Aluminum Foil Be Used to Clean Your Oven?
A viral trend showcasing oven cleaning with a ball of aluminum foil, water, and baking soda took social media by storm, attracting over 77 million views. Yet, skepticism remains regarding its efficacy.
Our response: While using aluminum foil and baking soda is effective, many viewers were concerned about potential damage. Rest assured, as long as you clean your oven only a few times each year—sufficient for its maintenance—this hack poses no risk.

6. Is Sleeping with Wet Hair Harmful to Your Sheets?
Many of us have gone to bed with wet hair after showers or beauty hacks. However, this habit could damage your cozy sheets over time.
Our response: Wet hair can lead to dampness in your pillows and sheets for an extended period, creating a conducive environment for bacteria and mold. This can harm your bedding and potentially affect your health. It may require some extra time at night, but ensuring your hair is dry before sleep is best.

7.Does the Popular DIY Grout Cleaner Work?
According to a trending cleaning hack, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and Dawn dish soap can revive your grout's original color. However, we wanted to see if this DIY method truly works.
Our response: After applying the solution and wiping it away, we noticed a distinctly lighter grout. While the outcome wasn't as dramatic as some viral videos suggest, we still found the method simple and effective.

8. Can This Cleaning Hack Remove Spaghetti Stains from Tupperware?
If you've stored spaghetti in plastic Tupperware, an unpleasant red stain may have developed. This trending cleaning hack claims to restore clarity to your container.
Our response: This method provides a straightforward and effective solution for recent stains, but it won't eliminate set-in marks. If your container has had a red tint for weeks or has gone through the dishwasher, that stain will likely remain.

9. Does Washing Leggings Inside Out Help?
Leggings can boost your confidence, but pilling can diminish their appeal. Washing clothes inside out, particularly leggings, is a common advice. We consulted a laundry expert on this matter.
Our response: While it isn’t strictly necessary to wash leggings inside out, doing so can have noticeable benefits over time. This practice helps protect against dye transfer and shields them from rough items, like buttons and zippers, in your laundry.

10. Can Aluminum Foil Really Remove Rust?
Seeing rust spread on metal items can be frustrating, yet this cleaning hack suggests you can eliminate rust spots using aluminum foil and water.
Our response: This method holds promise for banishing unsightly rust patches from your cherished metal goods and furnishings.
Our response: When aluminum foil interacts with rust, it triggers a chemical reaction that effectively reverses the oxidation that led to the formation of rust originally. So, what’s the takeaway? This cleaning tip can make your metal surfaces look brand new. Additionally, it doesn’t cause scratches, making it a safer option compared to employing a steel wool scrubbing pad.