People Are Using A Watermelon To Clean Their Carpet. Should You Try It?

The internet is full of quirky cleaning hacks, but a recent viral sensation is definitely the fruitiest one yet. This summer, more TikTokers than you'd think, have suggested using a watermelon to clean your carpet. No, it doesn't involve coating your floors in sticky pink pulp or rubbing juicy white rinds on stained spots. In fact, your watermelon stays totally intact because the entire idea is to use it as a weight on top of your vacuum brush. The theory? A heavier vacuum means deeper suction. But people are split on whether this sweet cleaning hack actually works or just burns out your vacuum motor.

There are a lot of TikTok cleaning hacks that aren't worth the hype. But 200,000 likes later, @justhaimomthings and her followers seem convinced that setting a watermelon on top of a vacuum or shampooer is like hitting the jackpot when it comes to getting carpets cleaner than ever. It actually makes sense when you consider that carpet is one of the hardest types of flooring to clean. Dirt and debris squishes deep within the fibers, making firm contact and strong suction critical. Although many vacuum manufacturers promote their cordless options, easy-to-clean dust compartments, or lightweight maneuverability, rotating bristles that agitate deep inside your carpet are what actually lift dirt. Adding weight to the top with a large watermelon, which typically weighs around 20 pounds, helps the vacuum head press deeper into the pile, increasing the amount of contact with the brush bristles (or beater bar). Yes, it's silly. But there's a lot of anecdotal evidence suggesting this is one hack that will turn your least favorite chore into a picnic.

If you can't wait to try this hack for yourself, start with a whole watermelon. One of the biggest challenges is getting it to stay put on top of your vacuum while hoovering around the house. Pick your piece of fruit carefully, opting for one with a slightly flat side. Bonus: That's called a "field spot," and if it's a creamy yellow color, you're in for a ripe and delicious treat after your cleaning session. Weight also matters. You want a watermelon heavy enough to increase contact with your carpet, but not so hefty that it overloads your vacuum's mechanical systems. Several commenters warned that this hack could burn out a motor fast. Watch out for the warnings, like a burning smell or weird noise, both of which are signs that you need a new vacuum.

Once you've picked out the perfect watermelon, the next step is simple. Plop it right on top of your vacuum head. Balance is key, and you may find that the design of your vacuum nicely accommodates or even cradles your watermelon. If it's struggling to stay put, you might want to do what @theanniediaries did for her TikTok demonstration: Secure it with plenty of tape.

A few skeptical commenters worried that a watermelon would roll right off, crack in half, and cause a massive mess. It's not impossible. So, if you're cleaning particularly precious white carpets or rugs, try another heavy item like a bag of rice instead. Who knows? Your pantry or fridge could hold the next great viral cleaning hack.