Maintaining a well functioning bathroom is key to a functioning day.
Photo courtesy of Kohler
It is a known fact that mornings are hectic. For those of us who would prefer mornings in the afternoon, rising early and getting ready is a chore every day. Even early birds are often seen rushing about, frantic to get out the door and on their way. So there is no argument about it- when a bathroom is in a chaotic state, so often are the people who are using it. Nothing can get a day off to a bad start like showering without clean towels, fixing your hair without a hairbrush, or washing your face only to find the drain is clogged. Maintaining a well functioning bathroom is key to a functioning day. Taking a few moments every day to keep order in the bathroom is the key to your troubles.
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Set a timer for 15 minutes. This 15 Minute Dash (like we discussed for cleaning kitchens) is a great way to get something accomplished. What gets done in these 15 minutes is good enough for today. Tomorrow's 15 minutes can include other tasks.
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First, attack anything that does not belong in the bathroom. Make a pile and find their homes. This de-cluttering should help clear counters and floors. This also includes all dirty laundry – pick it up and put it in the hamper now.
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Put bathroom items where they belong. Toothbrushes in the cup, odds and ends in drawers or baskets. Whatever it may be, find its home within the bathroom.
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Next, focus on anything that may have an odor. Does the trash need emptied? Is there something stuck in a drain or somewhere where it isn't supposed to be? Are their towels that need to be washed? Find the smell; enact the solution.
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Grab a sponge or a disposable wipe and quickly rub down the big surfaces. Think sink and tub. If truly pressed for time (company is on their way for dinner), wipe down the sink and pull the curtain on the tub. Come back to it as soon as possible.
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Do a quick swish of the toilet brush and cleanser in the bowl. Wipe down outer surfaces.
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If needed, wipe the mirror free of all spots. Do not use the sponge or disposable wipe you have been cleaning with. Most cleansers will smudge on glass. Use proper cleaner and newspaper or towel to prevent streaks. There are some glass cleaners in disposable wipe form.
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Sweep floor to remove hair and dust.
Photo courtesy of Kohler
These few daily cleaning steps will ensure your bathroom is in tip top shape for struggling through those early mornings or when encountering last minute company. They keep the space routinely functional and presentable. However, a room such as the bathroom encounters heavy traffic and is prime for bacteria to thrive. Now and again it is important to take the time for a more thorough cleaning.
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Once a week the tub and shower should be scrubbed with a cleanser that is tough on soap scum. Homemade recipes of lemon, vinegar, and even vodka are often enough to keep spots and stains off the surfaces. Beware of the affect these homemade remedies may have on grout.
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Once a month, pour a cup of baking soda down your drains. Follow with a cup of white vinegar and let sit for an hour. Flush with warm water to clear out and keep drains functioning with ease.
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Materials in the bathroom are subject to heavy moisture and need to be laundered regularly to prevent mold and mildew. Decorative towels, shower curtains, and window treatments should not be overlooked when thoroughly cleaning.
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Regularly look up at the ceiling and the corners. Do they need dusting? Do the walls in general need washing? (This cleaning routine may be good for every room in your home.).
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Every now and then check the fans, vents, and light fixtures. These need regular dusting and maintenance to ensure quality performance.
Photo courtesy of Kohler
Whatever cleaning tasks you tackle, check labels on cleaning products to ensure they will not damage surface materials. Also ensure there is proper ventilation whenever using cleaning products in large quantities. Do not be afraid to put a little elbow grease into your work, either. Taking a little time each day to accomplish smaller projects will lighten the load and keep your home running smoothly.
Photo courtesy of Kohler
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