In the age of social media, it’s not uncommon for viral hacks to sweep across platforms, promising quick fixes and easy solutions to everyday problems. However, not all that glitters is gold, and some of these viral trends can turn out to be more trouble than they’re worth. One such trend is the fan-cleaning hack, which has been gaining traction as we approach the warmer months of spring. But before you jump on the bandwagon, let’s take a closer look at why this method might just blow up in your face—quite literally.
The social media fan-cleaning hack involves spraying a cleaning solution onto the fan and then covering it with a plastic bag. The idea is that the fan’s operation will blow the loosened dust and dirt into the bag, making for a no-fuss clean-up. Sounds simple and effective, right? Unfortunately, the reality is a bit more complicated—and potentially damaging to your fan.
One social media user decided to put this hack to the test with two different fans, and the results were less than stellar. After following the instructions seen in numerous social media videos, which suggest using various cleaning solutions like rubbing alcohol or dish soap, our brave tester opted for diluted Fabuloso, a common household cleaner. The first fan, a tower model, was sprayed liberally and then bagged, but no dust or dirt was collected—perhaps a testament to its cleanliness, but not to the hack’s effectiveness.
The second fan, a small table model, was visibly dirty and seemed like the perfect candidate for this cleaning method. After a thorough spraying and a 10-minute wait with the bag in place, the dirt remained stubbornly in place. Worse still, the fan became too wet and malfunctioned, refusing to turn off. This highlights a significant flaw in the hack: the need to keep the fan plugged in and running during the process, which goes against the basic safety rule of unplugging electrical devices before cleaning them.
The result? A fan that was not only still dirty but also potentially broken due to water damage. It’s a stark reminder that not all hacks are created equal, and when it comes to electrical appliances, safety and proper care should always come first.
So, how should you clean a fan the right way? The tried-and-true method involves unplugging the fan and, for larger models, unscrewing and removing the front plate to access the interior. You can then soak the plate in soapy water and wipe down the blades and other parts. For those who prefer not to disassemble their fans, using a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust through the vents is a safer alternative. Finish by wiping down the exterior with soapy water, taking care to avoid any electrical components, which can be cleaned with a dry microfiber cloth.
Not all viral cleaning hacks are as effective or safe as they may seem at first glance. While some might promise convenience, it’s always important to consider the potential risks involved.
What cleaning hacks have you tried that worked well for you? Or do you have an experience where a viral trend didn’t go as planned? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below!
Also read: Survey sparks hygiene debate: Are we cleaning our toilets enough?
