Quick and Easy Tips for Cleaning the Bathroom.

How to Clean the Bathroom

When I moved into a forty-year-old apartment with a forty-year-old bathroom, I quickly realized just how important the basics of bathroom cleaning are. A dirty bathroom isn’t just unpleasant – it’s a breeding ground for bacteria. I spent hours scrubbing with every commercial cleaner imaginable, buying lime removers, scum busters, and odor controllers, hoping to find a magic solution. But the truth is, there’s no single miracle product – time, patience, and mastering the basics of bathroom cleaning are what truly make a difference.

Step 1: Prep Before You Start

Before diving into scrubbing, set yourself up for success:

• Remove items from the shower, tub, and sink counter so nothing gets in the way.
• Pick up throw rugs and bath mats, then take them outside to shake off dust or toss them in the laundry.
• Do a quick sweep with a Swiffer or vacuum to pick up hair and debris before mopping later.

Once everything is cleared, spray or sprinkle your preferred cleaners onto the tub, shower, sink, and toilet. If anything needs extra attention, scrub first and let the cleaner sit for 10 minutes before wiping – it gives the product time to break down grime.

Step 2: Cleaning the Bathtub and Shower

The shower and tub should be cleaned at least once a week – more often if you have a large family. Soap scum and bacteria build up fast!

• Use a sponge, green scouring pad, or scrub brush (whichever is safe for your surface) and start at the top of the shower walls, working down to the tub.
• Rinse everything thoroughly when finished.
• Polish fixtures with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.
• Replace items you removed before cleaning.
• Pro Tip: Use a squeegee on the walls after showering to reduce buildup, and wipe fixtures with a hand towel to prevent water spots.

Step 3: Cleaning the Toilet

After letting the cleaner sit:

1. Wipe down the exterior of the toilet, including the handle, lid, and base.
2. Scrub the toilet bowl thoroughly, making sure to get under the rim.
3. Rinse and wipe dry to prevent water spots.
4. For stubborn stains on white toilets, use a pumice stone – just keep it wet while scrubbing to avoid scratching.

Step 4: Cleaning the Sink and Mirror

• Scrub the sink bowl with your cleaner.
• Use an old toothbrush to clean around the drain and faucet edges.
• Polish the faucet and wipe down the countertop.
• Don’t forget cabinet doors – they collect dust and toothpaste splatters!
• Spray the mirror with glass cleaner and wipe dry with a soft cloth to avoid streaks.
• If the mirror has a frame, spray the cloth first, then wipe the surface.

Once done, replace toiletries and organize your counter for a fresh look.

Step 5: Cleaning Bathroom Floors

Once all surfaces are clean, it’s time to finish with the floors:

• Use an appropriate floor cleaner based on your flooring type.
• Mop thoroughly, paying extra attention to sticky areas, like where hairspray may have settled.
• Wipe down baseboards – they collect dust faster than you think!
• Replace rugs and mats once the floor is dry.

Step 6: Removing Bathroom Odors

Keeping odors at bay is easier than constantly covering them up. Here’s a simple DIY bathroom room spray:

DIY Bathroom Freshener Spray

In a bowl, mix together

• 3/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol
• 20 drops essential oil (choose your favorite scent or a mix)

1. Pour into a dark glass spray bottle and label.
2. Shake before each use and spritz as needed!

Great Essential Oils for Bathrooms

• Lavender – Relaxing and fresh
• Bergamot – Uplifting citrus scent
• Lime & Lemon – Bright and clean-smelling
• Cinnamon & Clove – Warm and spicy
• Cedarwood & Tea Tree Oil – Great for odor control
• Eucalyptus & Rosemary – Refreshing and energizing

Put a few drops of essential oil inside the toilet paper roll – it releases a light scent every time someone uses it!

Mastering the Basics of Bathroom Cleaning

Cleaning the bathroom doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following the basics of bathroom cleaning, you’ll keep the space fresh, hygienic, and guest-ready with minimal effort.

• Use your bathroom fan to improve air circulation and reduce moisture buildup (which leads to mold).
• If you have a window, crack it open while cleaning and after showers to keep the space fresh.
• Stick to a routine! A quick wipe-down every few days means less scrubbing later.

With these simple yet effective steps, your bathroom will stay sparkling clean without feeling like a never-ending chore.

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