10 Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid for a Hygienic Bathroom
Hidden germs, unpleasant odors, and bacteria make cleaning a bathroom an unappealing but necessary job. After all, we all want the bathroom to be tidy to be comfortable, and hygienic for us, our guests, and our family members. But despite all the good that comes from cleaning a bathroom, people usually make errors that could worsen a pre-existing situation. So here are ten mistakes to avoid to keep the space hygienic and clean.
Cleaning in a cluttered space
One of the first mistakes most people make while cleaning the bathroom is not decluttering the space first. You should remove clutter, such as empty containers, bottles, and exhausted tissue rolls. You should also wipe and put away anything that does not belong in the bathroom. Spaces requiring decluttering include under the sink and cupboards and throwing items that have passed the expiration date or have been kept open for longer than the recommended time. Moreover, you should also place baskets and tubs to store toiletries and cosmetics. Doing so may help ensure the cleaning process is uniform and quicker.
Not dusting first
A bathroom collects dust based on the amount of time between each cleaning process. Not dusting the bathroom may trigger allergies even if the other surfaces are clean. Furthermore, when you use water or cleaning products to wash surfaces, the floor may become slimy because of the dust combined with water. If this happens, the space may take much longer to clean. It could also make the floor rather slippery and put you at risk of falls. So to reduce the risk of this bathroom complication, ensure that you dust the bathroom regularly with a clean microfiber cloth.
Neglecting the drain
Another spot in the shower that requires constant attention is the drain. When this component of the bathroom isn’t cleaned regularly, it could get clogged, resulting in foul odors. A clogged drain may also serve as a breeding ground for microbes. To avoid getting into this unpleasant situation, clean the drain at least once a week, if not sooner. Also, look for products to help keep the inside of your drain free from pests, as such infestations could do serious damage to the system.
Disorderly cleaning of surfaces
There’s an orderly way to clean a bathroom that most people overlook, especially when cleaning surfaces. One may often start cleaning from the dirtiest spot. But one may not realize that several germs lurk on bathroom surfaces, and cleaning from the most contaminated spot may cause the spread of bacteria to cleaner regions. Therefore, it is essential to start wiping down cleaner surfaces such as countertops, sinks, and mirrors before moving to dirtier spots like showers and tubs. Furthermore, the toilet and its surrounding area should be cleaned last.
Wiping surfaces too soon
Cleaning products are one of the best ways to remove stains and eliminate bacteria and germs from the bathroom. But each cleaning essentially requires a certain amount of time to do its job when applied on a surface. So if you clean the surface immediately after spraying a solution, it may not work effectively. You should let the formula sit for a couple of minutes and give them time to work before wiping them off. Some people do not wipe surfaces after using a spray-and-go cleanser. However, one should ensure they remember to clean the sprayed region, as failing to do so could create a build-up that is much harder to wipe off.
Mixing cleaning products
Another common mistake people make while cleaning their homes is fusing two or more cleaning products. You should remember that certain products may contain bleach while others might be made with ammonia. And if you mix the two ingredients, the concoction could damage the bathroom surfaces. Moreover, the fumes that are created could be harmful to your lungs. Therefore, consider using cleaning products as they are.
Overlooking the shower curtain
While a shower curtain may look clean even after a month of usage, it isn’t. The bathroom accessory can collect tons of bacteria and mold, which could lead to infections following contact with the skin; even the curtain liners could collect germs. Therefore, you should clean the washroom curtain regularly. Also, replace liners every six months to a year. Also, do not forget to clean the shower head as the component may also harbor mycobacteria that could lead to lung diseases.
Placing the wet toilet brush immediately in the holder
Most people immediately put the toilet brush in the holder after using it. The toilet brush is designed to scrub off dirt and debris from various surfaces in the bathroom. So it will likely be one of the most contaminated objects there. Once you complete the cleaning process, wash the brush off once into the toilet bowl. Next, press it under the toilet seat and let it drip dry into the bowl. Once it is dry, tuck it away in the brush holder.
Using the wrong cleanser for ceramic tiles
Using the wrong cleanser on a surface it isn’t meant for is one of the most common mistakes made in cleaning a bathroom. Each cleaning product is designed to work on a specific surface. So an individual who uses an abrasive cleanser on ceramic tiles could damage the delicate structure. Abrasive cleansers may also affect other materials like the bathtub and stainless steel. Manufacturers usually print instructions on which surface a particular product is designed for. Moreover, you could also keep it simple by using a little soap and water to clean these surfaces.
Not cleaning hands
A big miss among many individuals who clean their bathrooms is failing to wash their hands. Loads of germs could get onto the hands after cleaning dirty spaces such as toilet bowls and other surfaces in the bathroom. Therefore, you should wash your hands with soap after cleaning the washroom to avoid contracting diseases. Moreover, one should also bathe after cleaning the bathroom, as it helps remove any dirt and germs.
