Teabags are a hidden gem when it comes to cleaning (Image: Getty)
UK households are being urged to think twice before tossing their used , as cleaning experts reveal an unexpected yet effective way to keep bathroom faucets gleaming. The in tea can cut through grime, reduce streaks, and leave metal and glass surfaces shining with minimal effort, making it an eco-friendly and budget-conscious alternative to chemical cleaners.
Cleaning expert Nigel Bearman, director of , encourages homeowners to give the trick a try, explaining that simply rubbing a damp, used tea bag over taps and shower screens can create a streak-free shine. Once the surface has been wiped down with a microfiber cloth, the result is a noticeable improvement in cleanliness and lustre.
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The tannins in tea bags work well to remove water stains (Image: Getty)
Bearman insists that this quick hack is not only effective but also a sustainable way to repurpose waste, adding, “The next time you make yourself a cup of tea, let the tea bag cool and use it on your taps. It’s a simple, eco-friendly trick.”
Intrigued by the claims, writer Ottilie Blackhall put the tea bag trick to the test in her own bathroom. She admitted to feeling sceptical at first but was genuinely impressed with the results.
Running a damp tea bag over her bathroom faucets, she immediately noticed a subtle shine. While it wasn’t as powerful as using toothpaste to tackle hard water stains, she found that it still did a decent job.
The only drawback she encountered was the fragility of the tea bags. “Two out of three split open while I was wiping, making a bit of a mess,” she noted, though a quick rinse with water cleared it away without issue.
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Cleaning expert Karina Toner confirmed that the science behind the trick is sound, explaining that the tannins in tea have mild polishing properties that can help break down water spots and dullness on metal surfaces.
However, she also cautioned that tea bags do not have disinfecting properties.
“They won’t kill bacteria, mould, or mildew in areas that need proper sanitation,” she said, recommending that homeowners follow up with a disinfectant or natural cleaning solution for a thorough clean.
While the tea bag method may not be a miracle cleaner, it has proven to be a clever and cost-effective way to maintain shine on bathroom fixtures. It’s a small, effortless swap that helps reduce waste while keeping faucets looking polished.
Before tossing your next used tea bag, consider giving it a second life by running it over your taps.