Even the most meticulous individuals can fall victim to errors in bathroom cleaning.
Cleaning bathrooms can be a chore, but there are common mistakes you might be making that make the job harder than it needs to be. Starting with how you approach the task is essential. Marla Mock, the president of Molly Maid, an Irving, Texas-based Neighborly company, shares the most common mistakes people make when cleaning their bathrooms and how to avoid them.
Being Careless with Your Cleaning Supplies
Using the same cloth or sponge throughout your bathroom can spread bacteria from one area to another. "Always use separate cloths for the sink, toilet, and shower, or opt for disposable disinfecting wipes," advises Mock. Toilet brushes can also become a breeding ground for bacteria. If you're using a standard toilet brush, rinse it thoroughly, spray it with disinfectant, and let it dry completely before storing it in its holder.
Forgetting High-Touch Surfaces
High-touch surfaces like light switches, faucet and toilet handles, are some of the dirtiest spots in the bathroom because they are frequently touched by unclean hands. Mock recommends wiping them down with a disinfectant and then wiping them dry to prevent the finishes from getting damaged.
Neglecting the Hard-to-See Zones
Shower curtains, underneath containers and bottles, are prime real estate for mold, mildew, and germs. Mock suggests cleaning shower curtains monthly by placing them in the washer with a large towel and a small dose of laundry detergent. She also recommends wiping down the areas beneath countertop items every time you clean your bathroom.
Being Haphazard with Cleaning Solutions
Using too many chemicals can leave surfaces sticky in the best of scenarios and create dangerous fumes in the worst. Avoid mixing bleach with ammonia or vinegar, as it can produce toxic gases. Instead, stick to simple and effective cleaners and always follow safety instructions.
Skipping the Schedule
By dividing cleaning tasks into daily upkeep and scheduled deep cleans, cleaning becomes more manageable and keeps the bathroom clean all year long. Clean the bathroom daily, including vacuming floors, squeegeeing shower walls, and wiping down highly used surfaces. Deep clean once a week, scrubbing the toilet, tub, and shower, wiping down sinks and mirrors, and vacuuming and mopping the floors.
By following these tips, you can take your bathroom cleaning game to the next level and avoid common mistakes that lead to ineffective cleaning, damage to surfaces, or health issues.
Incorporating strategic cleaning procedures into your bathroom routine, as suggested by SouthernLiving and Marla Mock from Molly Maid, can significantly improve the cleanliness of your home. For instance, instead of using the same cloth or sponge throughout your bathroom, utilize separate ones or disposable disinfecting wipes to prevent the spread of bacteria. Additionally, don't overlook the importance of cleaning high-touch surfaces like light switches, faucet and toilet handles. Regularly maintain the hard-to-see zones, such as shower curtains and beneath containers and bottles, to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and germs. Lastly, it's crucial to be mindful of the cleaning solutions you use, ensuring not to mix bleach with ammonia or vinegar to avoid producing toxic gases. Adhering to these tips can undeniably improve the cleanliness and overall condition of your Texas bathroom.
