Cleaning the bathroom may not be the most exciting task on you’re to-do list, but it’s a necessary one if you want a fresh, hygienic living space. Besides, the last thing you want is to be taking a relaxing bath only to look over and see a dirty corner from a spot you missed. While there’s no real “wrong” way to clean, it definitely needs a different kind of attention than the other rooms in your home. So, when you’re ready to tackle cleaning your bathroom, keep these do’s and don’ts in your back pocket.

Everyone Wants a Sparkling Bathroom

A clean bathroom isn’t just about keeping up appearances; it’s about maintaining a healthy environment. A well-maintained bathroom can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold while providing you with a more pleasant experience.

The Dos

1. Gather your cleaning stuff.

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies at your fingertips. This includes disinfectants, toilet bowl cleaner, glass cleaner, scrub brushes, and microfiber cloths.

2. Remember ventilation is important.

Inhaling those harmful chemicals is much harder to avoid in smaller spaces like this. Save yourself the headache and nausea and make sure you have proper ventilation during and after cleaning. Open a window if you have it, or turn on the exhaust fan to let out any fumes and moisture. This will also help prevent mold and mildew from taking hold.

3. Begin with the toilet first.

Start with the toilet because it’s usually the dirtiest part of the bathroom. Use a toilet brush and disinfectant to scrub away stains and bacteria. Don’t forget to clean the flush handle!

4. Shine your sink.

Your bathroom sink deserves some love too. Use an all-purpose cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to remove toothpaste splatters and soap scum.

5. Give your shower and bathtub some TLC.

All-purpose cleaner will work, but if you want to go the extra mile to keep these areas pristine, get a good quality shower cleaner. Regularly scrub away soap residue and grime to prevent buildup.

6. Don’t forget mirrors and glass.

Make your mirrors and glass surfaces shine by using a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Wipe in a circular motion for a streak-free finish.

7. Focus on the floor.

Finish off by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove dust and hair. Then, mop with a bathroom-friendly floor cleaner for a sparkling finish.

The Don’ts

Cleaning is so normalized, sometimes it’s easy to forget that we’re working with harsh chemicals designed to strip surfaces clean of bacteria and grime. Here’s what you should avoid.

1. Mixing Chemicals

Never mix cleaning chemicals, especially bleach and ammonia. Seriously This combination can release toxic fumes that are really, really bad for you.

2. Using Abrasive Tools

Avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool or abrasive pads on delicate surfaces, as they can scratch and damage them.

3. Ignoring Grout Lines

Grout is the Achilles’ heel of bathroom cleanliness. Don’t let it become a breeding ground for unsightly mold and mildew. Use a grout brush and cleaner to keep it clean and mold-free.

4. Overusing Harsh Chemicals

While strong chemicals can be effective, avoid overusing them, since they can damage surfaces and harm the environment.

5. Flushing Non-Flushable Items

Remind everyone in your household not to flush non-flushable items like wipes, cotton balls, or dental floss, as they can clog your plumbing.

6. Skipping Regular Cleaning

Don’t wait until your bathroom is a disaster zone. Regular, routine cleaning is key to maintaining a fresh and sanitary space.
Consistency is the secret sauce of bathroom cleaning success. A little effort often goes a long way in keeping your bathroom in top shape.