FAQ

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ABOUT US

+ Why the name YOKUU?

YOKUU comes from the word "shinrin-yoku", a Japanese therapy where people are sent to the forest for its beneficial effects. Literally translated, it means 'forest bathing'. YOKUU brings a piece of nature back into the home and allows people to bathe in the good bacteria.

+ Why clean with probiotics?

Our active products contain probiotics. Probiotics are living microorganisms from nature that can work wonders when it comes to cleaning. The bacteria remain active on the surface after application and continue to break down fat, dirt, and odor for up to seven days. This means that dirt particles are still being removed even after cleaning.

Probiotic products clean the surface and not only leave a visibly cleaner result but are also effective against odors. This deep cleaning process is called microscopic cleaning because probiotics reach into the smallest crevices.

After dissolving and applying YOKUU products to the surface, they restore the natural microbiological balance to create a human-friendly microflora.

+ Can I leave a review?

Yes, please - they really help us! You can rate us on Trustpilot or on our webshop.

PRODUCTS

+ On which materials can I use YOKUU?

Our Multi-Purpose, Floor, and Glass cleaners are 100% safe for any type of surface. Only our Bathroom cleaner, which is slightly more acidic, should not be used on calcareous stone types such as marble.

+ Can I use your sprays on textile?

You can do that with our Multi-Purpose cleaner. This can be used, for example, to remove odours or stains from textiles. Just spray a few times and let it soak in. Odours disappear very quickly, but our bacteria need a bit more time for stains. If the stain is not gone the first time, simply repeat the process!

Probiotic products clean the surface and not only leave a visibly cleaner result but are also effective against odors. This deep cleaning process is called microscopic cleaning because probiotics reach into the smallest crevices.

After dissolving and applying YOKUU products to the surface, they restore the natural microbiological balance to create a human-friendly microflora.

+ Are your products disinfectant?

Chemical disinfectants are meant to eliminate all types of bacteria, which can lead to the development of harmful and resistant bacterial strains, known as "superbugs". Studies have shown that these superbugs can have long-lasting harmful effects on both the environment and our health. YOKUU does not kill, but instead introduces beneficial bacteria that colonize your living environment and provide long-lasting protection against dirt and grime.

+ Can I add my own scent to YOKUU?

You can add essential oils to the YOKUU solution for extra fragrance. Our bacteria will still work just as effectively!

+ Are the products safe for children and pets?

Yes! Our products are completely hazard-free. There are no scary looking hazard symbols on our products. Of course, they're intended for cleaning surfaces, not for consumption!

Our bacteria have been inspected by recognised agencies for food safety. Therefore, there are no problem with using YOKUU to clean your kitchen counter.

All our bacteria are harvested from natural landscapes. No genetically modified microorganisms!

+ How long do the products keep?

The pearls can keep for up to two years in their original packaging. Once dissolved, the solution remains effective for three months. For storage, it's best to keep our products dry in an aluminum container. Don't use rainwater, but tap water!

+ Can I put my spray bottle in the dishwasher?

No, because then the bottle will break! Between two pearls, you can rinse the bottle with lukewarm water.

+ Does YOKUU have any product certificates?

YOKUU has the V-label (vegan label). Our formula is completely free from animal ingredients.

YOKUU is a member of '1% for the planet'. Every year, we donate 1% of our revenue to charity! Additionally, we support organizations that are committed to biodiversity and sustainable forest management.

Unfortunately, YOKUU does not have the EU Ecolabel because our product is not a ready-to-use solution (due to our soluble products). Sometimes innovation is faster than legislation.

+ Where are the products made?

Our products are produced in various locations, depending on the specific item. While While our probiotics originate from the Belgian Ardennes, our manufacturing facilities are spread across different regions. We're continuously evaluating and refining our production processes to have the smallest impact on the environmental possible.

+ Is your packaging sustainable?

Our pearls are packaged in 100% paper packaging. You can dispose of our paper wrappers with your paper waste. Our plastic bottles are made of high-quality plastic, ensuring a long lifespan.

THE SCIENCE

+ How do bacteria clean?

Our YOKUU bacteria clean by releasing enzymes that break down organic matter into simpler compounds, effectively reducing grime and biofilms on surfaces. These enzymes target organic material like fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, decomposing them to ensure the surface remains clean and free of harmful microorganisms. Studies show that enzyme release from spores enhances cleaning efficacy and persistence on surfaces, even in challenging environments [1].

+ How do the cleaning products stay fit for use while they contain bacteria? Don’t they spoil?

The bacteria in our products are added as sporesa. They are in a dormant state until activated by the presence of nutrients, which prevents spoilage and ensures long shelf life. Spores are highly resilient to temperature fluctuations, chemical interactions, and handling stresses during storage. This resilience allows microbial cleaning products to maintain bacterial integrity and efficacy over time [2].

+ Is it dangerous to clean with these products?

The bacteria in our cleaners have been evaluated for safety, showing minimal risk for inhalation or dermal exposure due to their non-pathogenic nature. Studies have shown that these bacteria are safe for human contact, as they do not produce toxins that are harmful to humans or pets, making them suitable for home and industrial use [1].

+ How do probiotics in the cleaners work on surfaces?

When applied to surfaces, spore-forming bacteria activate in the presence of nutrients and start releasing enzymes to break down organic residues. This enzymatic activity continues over time, providing a lasting clean effect that prevents the reaccumulation of dirt and biofilm. This ongoing action has been validated in studies that highlight the long-term efficacy of microbial-based cleaning products (MBCPs) in both domestic and industrial environments [3].

+ What makes probiotic-based cleaners different from traditional cleaners?

Unlike conventional cleaners, which may sanitize or sterilize surfaces entirely, probiotics encourage a balanced microbiome on surfaces. The presence of non-pathogenic bacteria can outcompete harmful bacteria, preventing their growth and re-establishing a natural balance on treated surfaces. This approach is both environmentally friendly and effective over time, as highlighted in research on microbial-based cleaning products [4].

+ How does the microbiome effect contribute to a cleaner environment?

By promoting beneficial bacteria, microbial-based cleaning products reduce harmful microbes and allergens on surfaces. This balanced microbiome approach ensures that potentially pathogenic bacteria have less opportunity to establish themselves, thereby reducing the risk of infections and improving indoor air quality. The protective effect has been demonstrated in multiple studies, supporting the microbial approach as beneficial for household and commercial cleaning [4].

+ What safety measures are in place to ensure these products are safe for pets?

Studies on bacteria used in our products show that they have low toxicity and do not produce harmful by-products, making them safe for environments with pets. The spore-forming bacteria in these cleaners are non-pathogenic and do not interfere with pet health when used as directed [1].

+ How long do the probiotics continue to work after cleaning?

Research indicates that microbial cleaning agents can continue working on surfaces for several days after application. The residual bacterial presence maintains enzymatic activity, which helps prevent dirt buildup and reestablishes a favorable microbiome. Studies have confirmed this extended activity window, showing lasting effectiveness in reducing biofilm formation and harmful bacterial populations [3].

+ How can YOKUU products help reduce allergens in the home?

By breaking down organic residues that commonly harbor allergens like dust mites and mold, probiotic cleaners reduce the presence of these triggers. Studies on microbial cleaning products have shown their effectiveness in reducing common household allergens and supporting better indoor air quality [4].

+ What are the environmental benefits of using probiotic cleaners?

Probiotic cleaners are biodegradable and non-toxic, minimizing chemical residue and environmental pollution. Unlike traditional chemical cleaners, these products use naturally occurring microorganisms, which can help maintain ecological balance. This eco-friendly approach aligns with sustainable practices by reducing water pollution and supporting soil and water microbiomes [2].

+ How do microbial cleaners interact with conventional cleaning products?

While microbial cleaners are effective on their own, combining them with strong chemical disinfectants can reduce their efficacy, as these chemicals kill the beneficial microbes.

SHIPPINGS & RETURNS

+ What countries do you ship to?

We ship to all countries within the EU as well as the UK. You can find our shipping costs here.

+ Is there any way I can test the products for free?

Because we're so convinced that you'll love our products, we offer you the opportunity to return them within 30 days of receipt if you are unsatisfied. If this is the case, simply send an email to hi@yokuu.be and we will take care of the rest, no questions asked!

Probiotic products clean the surface and not only leave a visibly cleaner result but are also effective against odors. This deep cleaning process is called microscopic cleaning because probiotics reach into the smallest crevices.

After dissolving and applying YOKUU products to the surface, they restore the natural microbiological balance to create a human-friendly microflora.

+ Where can I see my invoice after a purchase?

After your purchase, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to your invoice. If you’re having trouble or didn’t receive it, feel free to get in touch, and we’ll send it over to you!

+ How do I get an invoice with my VAT number for my business purchases?

First, create an account on our website and enter your VAT number during registration. Make sure you're logged in when placing an order, and your VAT number will automatically appear on the invoice.