What should you not use TSP on?

Author: Nathan Pollich PhD  |  Last update: Sunday, January 18, 2026

When mixed with water, TSP is a highly alkaline solution that can cause irreversible damage to many common household surfaces. It is strongly recommended that TSP not be used in bathrooms, in particular, because it can darken and corrode metal fixtures; cause etching in glass and ceramic tile; and eat away at grout.

What are the disadvantages of trisodium phosphate?

Trisodium phosphate in food is deemed problematic by many health experts because of the potential health risks it can cause. It is believed to cause kidney damage, soft tissue calcification, and bone calcium remova. Continuous ingestion over a long period of time is linked to bone density diseases such as osteoporosis.

Why was TSP banned?

TSP is still sold and used as a cleaning agent, but since the late 1960s, its use has diminished in the United States and many other parts of the world because, like many phosphate-based cleaners, it is known to cause extensive eutrophication of lakes and rivers once it enters a water system.

Is TSP safe to use around plants?

TSP is trisodium phosphate, and is a really great cleaner, but dreadful for humans and plants. This is very alkaline, and if you've got acid-loving plants nearby, you're going to have to work, as Alex z7 said, to keep them safe.

What are the disadvantages of TSP fertilizer?

The disadvantages for producing TSP fertilizer from phosphate rock are purity, insolubility, and reduction of natural mineral resources. Therefore, it is necessary to find another raw material to replace phosphate rock, such as calcium carbonate obtained from limestone minerals or various shells/eggshells.

5 Things You Should Not Use TSP For?

Do you have to rinse off TSP?

Let TSP work, and rinse well for the best results.”

What is the drawback of TSP?

Limited Investment Options

Unlike 401 (k) plans, the TSP offers only six investment fund choices, all based on index funds. Index funds allow investors to buy a bundle of stocks that tracks a single market sector. Those fund choices include: G Fund – Short-term U.S. Treasuries specially issued to the TSP.

Can TSP go down the drain?

The most accessible way to dispose of TSP in the home would be to pour it down the toilet so it gets treated properly. This is even safe on septic systems. Never dispose of used degreasing rinsates like TSP into lakes, streams, storm drains, or open bodies of water.

Do you sand before or after TSP?

By de-glossing the surface first using TSP, it will dull the surface and allow the new paint to stick. Normally the areas are sanded and otherwise prepared before they are washed with TSP. Be sure to rinse with a clean, damp sponge and allow the surface to dry thoroughly.

Can you mix TSP and vinegar?

If you have a small amount of leftover TSP solution, you can dilute it heavily with water and use it to clean outdoor surfaces like driveways or sidewalks. You can also neutralize the alkalinity by adding a mild acid, such as vinegar, before disposal.

Does cheerios contain trisodium phosphate?

Ingredients. Whole Grain Oats, Corn Starch, Sugar, Salt, Tripotassium Phosphate. Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) Added to Preserve Freshness.

Is TSP harmful?

Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is an inorganic phosphate additive that is widely found in processed foods. Although small amounts of TSP may not cause health problems, eating foods high in phosphate additives on a daily basis can be harmful to your health.

Will TSP damage concrete?

Another widely used concrete cleaner is trisodium phosphate (TSP). It is alkaline, so it will not harm your concrete, but it is alkaline enough to cause skin irritation and even burns.

Should you wear a mask when using TSP?

Safety Gear: Before handling TSP, make sure you're wearing your safety gear: gloves, goggles, and a mask. These precautions are vital to protect your skin, eyes, and lungs.

Can I use Simple Green instead of TSP?

Simple Green Surface Prep cleans and degreases surfaces prior to painting to remove the dirt, grease and unseen oils that cause paint to be uneven, crack or peel. The phosphate-free formula is a safer alternative to TSP.

Can I use Dawn instead of TSP?

Dawn: You can use the original blue Dawn dish detergent instead of TSP to cut through surface grease. Pressure-washing: This is another alternative to cleaning outside surfaces without TSP. With sufficient and well-calibrated water pressure, it is possible to clean tough areas with only the pressure of the water.

Does TSP damage plastic?

TSP is a pretty harsh cleaner, it will etch many items including some plastics and aluminum. That is one reason why it is used before painting because it will take the gloss off of some painted surfaces.

What neutralizes TSP?

It is important to note that TSP is most effective against aerobic microbes (Sallam et al., 2004); 1 cup per 5 gallons is the recommended dilution, and washing with citric acid is recommended to neutralize the residue.

What are the cons of TSP?

The major limitation of TSPs is that participants must be employees of the U.S. federal government. This includes part-time and full-time employees of the civilian branches, as well as military service members.

When to use TSP?

Use TSP to clean surfaces after using paint/varnish removers. Preferred by painting and cleaning professionals. Removes smoke and soot stains from walls. Cleans chalked paint.

Does TSP report to IRS?

We report all TSP withdrawals and distributions to the IRS, to the appropriate state tax agencies if applicable, and to you on IRS Form 1099-R, Distributions From Pensions, Annuities, Retirement or Profit-Sharing Plans, IRAs, Insurance Contracts, etc.

Is borax a good substitute for TSP?

Borax is a considered a more natural alternative to TSP. Sodium borate (as its called by chemists) is also alkaline and also consists of white colorless crystals that dissolve in water.

Do I need gloves with TSP?

Safety Precautions When Using TSP

As a highly regulated substance, it is also critical to read and follow package directions to the letter, including and especially the provided safety warnings. When working with TSP, wear suitable clothing, including long sleeves, waterproof work gloves, and eye protection.

What does TSP do to walls?

Trisodium phosphate, also known as TSP, is a powder you mix with warm water and use to wipe down your walls before painting. It is an essential step to paint preparation, acting in three ways to improve your paint's overall look and adhesiveness.

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