“Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Bathroom”
Cleaning a bathroom can be a challenging task, with scrubbing floors, tubs, and tiles to remove tough stains like mildew and soap residue. However, there are ways you may unknowingly be making the job harder for yourself. According to Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid based in Irving, Texas, the way you approach cleaning can impact the efficiency and effectiveness of your efforts.
One key mistake is cleaning out of sequence, which can result in unnecessary additional work. For example, if you vacuum before dusting, debris from surfaces like countertops and shelves might fall onto the freshly cleaned floor, leading to the need for a repeat vacuuming session. Mock recommends following a strategic approach to ensure a thoroughly clean and sparkling bathroom.
Mock also highlights some common errors that might be hindering your bathroom cleaning efforts:
1. Reusing the same cleaning cloth can spread bacteria from one area to another. Mock advises using separate cloths for different areas like the sink, toilet, and shower, or using disposable disinfecting wipes.
2. **Neglecting high-touch surfaces:** High-touch surfaces such as light switches, faucet handles, and toilet handles are often overlooked but can harbor a significant amount of bacteria. Mock suggests wiping them down with a disinfectant and ensuring they are dry to prevent damage.
3. **Overlooking hard-to-see areas:** Areas like shower curtains and under containers can accumulate mold, mildew, and germs. Mock recommends cleaning shower curtains monthly and wiping down hidden surfaces beneath countertop items regularly.
4. **Using too many cleaning solutions:** Using excessive chemicals can leave surfaces sticky and produce harmful fumes. Mock advises against mixing bleach with ammonia or vinegar and recommends sticking to simple and effective cleaners while following safety instructions.
By avoiding these common mistakes and adopting a systematic approach to cleaning your bathroom, you can achieve a more efficient and thorough cleaning routine.
“Ensuring they are safe for any surface you plan to use them on is crucial. Skipping the schedule for cleaning tasks may result in an overwhelming workload and a less than fresh bathroom throughout the year,” advises Mock. She provides a comprehensive breakdown of daily, weekly, monthly, and even annual tasks to streamline bathroom maintenance.
On a daily basis, it is recommended to vacuum the floors daily, including the rugs, and wipe down the shower walls with a squeegee to prevent water spots and soap buildup. Additionally, don’t forget to wipe down frequently used surfaces such as sinks, countertops, and toilet handles.
For a more thorough cleaning session on a weekly basis, Mock suggests scrubbing the toilet, tub, and shower, wiping down sinks and mirrors, as well as vacuuming and mopping the floors.
Taking care of monthly maintenance tasks can prevent situations from getting out of hand. Mock advises conducting a monthly cabinet and drawer cleanout, in addition to focusing on more detailed cleaning procedures like discarding expired products, washing blinds and shower curtains, and deep cleaning fixtures, walls, and the shower area.
Annually, dedicate time to tackle more challenging cleaning tasks. Mock emphasizes the importance of cleaning bathroom vents and exhaust fans, soaking the showerhead in vinegar to eliminate mineral deposits, and scrubbing tile grout with an oxygen bleach paste for a brightened and disinfected finish.”
