Cleaning Essentials: The Science of Surface Hygiene

Do we really need all those cleaning sprays?

Have a peek in anyone?s cupboard under the sink (ask first or it can get a bit weird) and you?re bound to find a clutch of cleaning sprays and products. The marketing often says they?re designed for certain rooms and do specific jobs.

But listener Alice wants to know if we really need different sprays for our bathrooms and kitchens. Will soap and water do the same job, and what about supermarket own-brand products? She?s also keen to know about the cleaning properties of natural products like vinegar?and what about the concentrated versions that allow you to add your own water?

Greg and Alice are joined by Dr Sally Bloomfield from the International Scientific Forum on Home Hygiene, as well as TV?s ?Queen of Clean?, Lynsey Crombie, to run the science through the evidence mill.

All our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you've seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voicenote to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN