22 Jan 2025

What Is TSP Cleaner And How To Use It?

woman cleaning a kitchen surface

Cleaning is an essential part of home maintenance. But not all cleaning tasks are equal; some require more elbow grease than others. When it comes to taking care of stubborn stains or caked-on grease, grime and dirt, professionals and homeowners tend to move towards heavy-duty cleaning solutions to resolve the issues. TSP (trisodium phosphate) is one such extensively used substance. When coupled with warm water, this inorganic substance (Na₃PO₄) acts as a powerful degreaser, stain remover, and cleanser.

TSP is effective on a wide range of surfaces, making it a common cleaning product in both residential and commercial cleaning practices. So, this article will talk about TSP as a cleaner, the various surfaces it can be used on and the correct way to use it. It will also delve into the drawbacks of using this solution so that you can make an informed choice. Understanding how and when to use TSP as a cleaner is essential for deep cleaning your house or doing jobs such as cheap end of lease cleaners Melbourne. Its appropriate application might help you save time while achieving ideal results.

1. What is TSP Cleaner?

woman with a cleaning product

TSP, or trisodium phosphate, is a water-soluble crystalline powder that, when mixed with warm water, produces a very powerful cleaning solution noted for its ability to degrease and clean perfectly. TSP is commonly used to prepare surfaces for painting, clean grease from kitchen walls, and eliminate mould and mildew from outdoor spaces. TSP is more aggressive than regular household cleaners, making it excellent for tasks requiring a thorough cleaning.

While its cleaning abilities are quite powerful, TSP should be used with caution. The product is highly alkaline and can cause extensive damage to certain materials if not diluted properly. Due to its corrosive nature, its use has become restricted in some areas due to environmental concerns, as phosphate can harm the health of aquatic ecosystems and cause pollution. In some regions of Australia, TSP alternatives are recommended for use, but it remains an effective choice for tasks like end of lease cleaning in Melbourne, where attention to detail is critical.

2. How to Use TSP Cleaner?

When using TSP for cleaning, always follow the instructions given on the packaging to the last letter. Otherwise you may either end up harming the surface or yourself in the process of using it. A rule of thumb to follow here is to use the least amount of TSP possible to carry out a specific cleaning task.

Step 1: Gather all your Supplies

Before you start washing or dissolving the TSP in water, ensure that you have all of the equipment necessary, which includes a bucket, warm water, waterproof rubber gloves, safety goggles, a sponge or scrubbing brush, and clean rags. TSP is dangerous, so you should always exercise extreme caution when handling it. Wear protective clothing and avoid exposure to it as much as possible.

Step 2: Prepare the Solution

Mix the TSP powder with warm water according to the instructions given on its packaging. Be sure to follow all the instructions without missing any steps. Typically, 1-2 tbsp of TSP per litre of water is sufficient to handle most cleaning tasks. Stir the solution thoroughly to ensure that the powder has dissolved completely. For lighter cleaning tasks, you can dilute it further by adding more warm water to reduce the strength of the solution.

Step 3: Test on a small Area

Before you apply the TSP solution to any surface, always test out a small, inconspicuous section of it. This will help you check whether the solution is compatible to the surface or whether it will corrode it upon use. You’ll be able to avoid potential damage if you take this step.

Step 4: Apply the TSP solution

Apply the TSP solution you want to clean using a brush or a sponge. Be sure to wring out the maximum amount of solution from the brush or sponge to turn it damp but not completely dripping wet. Avoid working with a dripping brush or sponge, as this can leave behind white streaks or spots after the solution dries. Work in sections to ensure even coverage and allow the solution to sit for a while to break down the dirt and grime.

Step 5: Scrub and Rinse

After letting the solution sit for a while, scrub the surface thoroughly with your sponge or brush. For tougher stains, use more pressure or repeat the process as necessary. Once the cleaning is complete, rinse the surface thoroughly using clean water, this will remove any remaining TSP residue. Then, use a clean rag to wipe it down and dry the surface.

3. Precautions To Take While Using TSP

TSP is a highly corrosive substance that can harm you if you come in direct contact with it. It can cause burns to your skin and can cause severe eye damage, hence it’s imperative that you don protective gear. Always wear gloves, masks and goggles to protect your skin, airways and eyes from irritation. For extra precaution, wear long sleeve clothes when working with them to further limit accidental exposure. If you are using the TSP solution indoors, ensure that the room is properly ventilated to prevent the build-up of fumes.

Do not use the TSP on surfaces such as glass, aluminium, metal, grout, or other sensitive materials, as it can cause etching and damage. After the cleaning is done, make sure to dispose the TSP waste properly and in accordance with local waste disposal regulations. This will help you in reducing the environmental impact of this substance.

4. When To Use TSP Cleaner

TSP is useful for tasks that require deep cleaning like when you are preparing your walls for painting or sticking wallpaper. It is also useful for removing stubborn grease or food stains from kitchen surfaces and for cleaning outdoor areas like patios, decks or driveways. TSP solutions are often used to deal with mould and mildew, too. For the people who are performing quality end of lease cleaning in Melbourne, TSP as a cleaner can be an invaluable tool for ensuring that every surface in the home is spotlessly clean and ready for inspection.

5. Alternative To TSP Cleaner

Due to the polluting effects, many regions of Australia recommend using TSP alternatives for cleaning tasks. These products are phosphate-free and less harsh in comparison but still effective for general cleaning. If you’re concerned about the environment or have restrictions in terms of the surfaces it can be used on, TSP alternatives can come in handy. Some of the alternatives include phosphate-free cleaners, baking soda and vinegar, borax, liquid degreasers, etc.

A Complete Guide on TSP Cleaner

tips for cleaning with TSP cleaners

Wrapping Up

TSP is a powerful and versatile cleaner that has earned its place as a favourite among homeowners and professionals alike. However, TSP requires caution and proper handling to avoid damage and minimise the environmental impact.