Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) is a powerful cleaning agent, but its use has drawbacks.
Learn how to use TSP safely to clean your home.
Getty Images / Natalia Kopyltsova
What is TSP and when would you use it in your home?
Credit:Getty Images / Natalia Kopyltsova
It is frequently used toprepare surfaces for repaintingor refinishing.
While TSP is a versatile and effective heavy-duty cleaner, it is not without significant drawbacks.
TSP is highly caustic and can cause severe eye and skin damage if used improperly.
What Is TSP?
However, TSP is still commonly used by contractors and painters to prepare surfaces for painting.
Uses for TSP
Prepare painted surfaces: Use TSP before repainting or refinishing surfaces.
Store TSP in a secure, dry area.
When mixing and working with TSP, wear eye protection, long sleeves, and waterproof work gloves.
Plastic sheeting should be used to cover any areas that are not being cleaned with TSP.
Once mixed, the TSP solution will appear slightly cloudy.
The use of TSP toeliminate mold and mildewcalls for a stronger solution that includes chlorine bleach.
Soak and wring the sponge in the TSP solution frequently while working.
Using a new sponge and a clean bucket filled with cool water, wipe the surface clean.
