“Note: This article may contain affiliate links from Hearst Magazines and Yahoo, resulting in commissions or revenue.” Cleaning the shower often feels like a dreaded task that no one enjoys. However, it is a necessary chore to prevent discolored grout, watermarks, and soap scum buildup. Surprisingly, a recent survey by Drench revealed that three-quarters of individuals multitask by cleaning the shower while using it. This revelation sparked conversations among colleagues, with many admitting to this practice.
While the idea of saving water, time, and effort by combining showering and cleaning may seem efficient, it can actually be wasteful and pose potential risks. Here are the reasons why this practice is not advisable:
1. Skin Exposure to Harsh Chemicals:
Most bathroom cleaners contain chemicals that can be harmful to the skin. Splashes or direct contact with these cleaning agents can lead to skin irritation and irritant contact dermatitis, causing dryness, itching, and cracking. It is recommended to wear protective gear like rubber gloves and clothing to minimize skin exposure. Moreover, products containing bleach should be handled with extreme caution, as they can cause severe skin damage and should not be used in the shower.
2. Inhalation of Toxic Fumes:
Bathroom cleaners emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and strong fragrances that are meant to be used in well-ventilated areas. Inhaling these fumes in an enclosed space like a shower can result in dizziness, lightheadedness, respiratory issues, and irritation to the eyes and nose. Individuals with asthma may experience exacerbation of symptoms due to exposure to such fumes. Even natural alternatives like vinegar can release strong odors that require proper ventilation.
3. Increased Risk of Slipping:
Cleaning a wet and slippery shower floor can heighten the risk of accidents. It is safer to clean the shower when it is dry and promptly dry any wet surfaces to prevent slipping hazards. Taking precautions like using tools for scrubbing and ensuring proper drying can minimize the risk of falls during cleaning.
In conclusion, it is essential to prioritize safety and proper ventilation when cleaning the shower to avoid skin exposure to chemicals, inhalation of toxic fumes, and slipping hazards. By following these precautions, you can maintain a clean and safe shower environment effectively.
When you leave the shower running while you clean it, the cleaning solution will rinse away before it has a chance to work effectively. Even if it’s getting hit with a few residual splashes, the results won’t be as good as they could be. Consequently, you’re likely to end up using much more cleaning solution to get the job done, resulting in wastage.
Moreover, if you wear glasses or contact lenses, you’re aware of the difficulty of seeing clearly in the shower. Adding steam to the equation only makes it blurrier for everyone. Under such conditions, cleaning thoroughly becomes a challenge as it’s hard to spot where stains are located in the first place. To clean efficiently, the shower should be open and dry so you can clearly see where you need to clean and where you’ve already applied the cleaning product.
Additionally, the stains in your shower often require a focused effort and thorough scrubbing to remove. If you try to clean the shower while also using it for bathing, you’re unlikely to give it the necessary attention it needs. By setting aside dedicated time for cleaning the shower, you’re more likely to invest the time required to give it the deep clean it deserves.
In conclusion, while it may seem practical to clean your shower while using it, it is actually safer and more effective to clean yourself and your shower separately. Wearing rubber gloves (and clothes!) can limit your skin’s exposure to cleaning solution chemicals, and cleaning the shower while it’s dry reduces the risk of slipping and allows you to pay better attention to stains. Cleaning the shower in an open and ventilated space also minimizes your exposure to fumes.
Even if you clean the shower before using it, it’s advisable to protect your skin during the cleaning process and allow the area to air out after rinsing away the cleaning products. By following these steps, you can ensure a cleaner and safer shower experience for yourself.
