Having a clean and fresh bathroom doesn’t just contribute to its aesthetic—it keeps the area a suitable, healthy living environment. However, because the bathroom sees so much foot traffic, it’s more likely to be exposed to moisture. And when this happens, the area can quickly become a breeding ground for unpleasant odors. Even so, there are several simple yet effective tips to keep your bathroom smelling fresh and rejuvenating.

7 Tips To Keep Your Bathroom Smelling Fresh

By taking better care of your bathroom with a routine, you can guarantee that it stays a welcoming and refreshing space for you and your family. And with just a little effort and lots of consistency, you can not only eliminate foul odors but enjoy a bright and rejuvenating atmosphere every day. Here’s how.

1. Create a regular cleaning routine.

Creating a regular cleaning routine is fundamental to having a clean, healthy bathroom. To do this, be sure to clean the surfaces in your bathroom on a regular basis — at least weekly. Use cleaning products that don’t contain toxic ingredients to eradicate bacteria, prevent odor from building up, and keep you safe.

2. Remember ventilation is key.

Having proper air ventilation in your bathroom is of utmost importance to keeping your space free from foul odors. When your bathroom isn’t properly aired out, it can cause moisture to accumulate. This, in turn, leads to the buildup of mold and mildew, which tend to emit pretty nasty odors. To prevent this, open the windows or turn on your exhaust fan during and after showers to let steam escape and fresh air circulate freely.

3. Use air fresheners and deodorizers.

Another way to keep your area fresh is by using air fresheners or deodorizing products that are specially formulated to hide odors that form in the bathroom. When picking out an air-freshening product, be sure to select natural or simply mild fragrances that won’t overpower the space but instead provide a subtle and refreshing aroma.

4. Incorporate essential oils.

To maximize the natural power of aromatherapy, use essential oils to create a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere in your bathroom. To do this, simply add several drops of your favorite essential oil to a diffuser and wait for the sweet-smelling fragrance to fill the air.

If you don’t have an air diffuser on hand, you can also try soaking cotton balls in your essential oil of choice and then strategically arranging them in the bathroom to release a delightful fragrance.

5. Keep your drains clean and clear.

Dirty drains have a tendency to harbor bacteria that emit foul odors. So if you notice a stench in your bathroom, the easiest way to prevent this is by regularly cleaning and unclogging drains. You can do this by pouring a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water down the drain, then let the magic happen.

Another strategy you can employ is to install drain covers to catch hair, dirt, and other debris so that they don’t build up in the pipes.

6. Break out the clean linens.

Linens and towels can be breeding grounds for bacteria, especially when they’re damp. This isn’t only bad for your hygiene, but it can release foul odors in the bathroom, too. To keep this from happening to you, always launder your linens — i.e. towels, bath mats, and shower curtains — at least once a week.

7. Keep everything dry.

When it comes to bathroom odors, moisture is a clear enemy. Prevent moisture from ruining your space by wiping down the surfaces that tend to be wet. Think countertops, shower walls, and the bathtub. Dry them after each use to prevent water from accumulating and creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow.