ReadersAisle.com | Reliable Information Simplified

20 bathroom cleaning mistakes to avoid

Maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom is a top priority for every household. And it should be since hygiene and tidiness go hand in hand. Nevertheless, despite the best intentions, people often unintentionally make common bathroom cleaning mistakes, inadvertently impeding their efforts and potentially giving rise to hygiene-related concerns. To help one avoid that, here are some common bathroom cleaning errors that should be sidestepped. These will help in ensuring a sparkling bathroom with a healthy environment.

Neglecting regular cleaning
One of the most common bathroom cleaning mistakes is neglecting regular cleaning. Waiting too long between cleanings accumulates soap scum, grime, and mold, making the cleaning process more daunting. It is better to establish a regular cleaning schedule and clean the bathroom at least once a week to maintain a consistently clean bathroom.

Forgetting to dust first
Many people dive right into cleaning bathroom surfaces without dusting first. Dust and loose debris can settle on surfaces, making it harder to achieve a spotless result. It is advisable to always start the bathroom cleaning routine by dusting surfaces from top to bottom. Using a microfiber cloth or a duster to capture dust and cobwebs ensures that subsequent cleaning efforts are more effective and leave the bathroom spotless.

Using harsh chemical cleaners
While it’s tempting to reach for heavy-duty cleaners, using harsh chemicals can damage surfaces, harm the environment, and pose health risks. Opting for milder, eco-friendly cleaners that are equally effective without the harsh side effects is better.

Overlooking tile and grout
Tiles and grout are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning, but they are prone to accumulating dirt, bacteria, and mold over time. Neglecting to clean them regularly can lead to unsightly stains and an unhealthy environment. To effectively clean and maintain tiles and grout, it is recommended to use a mixture of baking soda and water as a natural and affordable cleaning solution.

Using a dirty toilet brush
It is common to overlook cleaning the toilet brush after cleaning the toilet. Therefore, it is advisable to rinse the brush thoroughly after use and let it air dry. Additionally, it is important to periodically disinfect the brush by soaking it in a mixture of bleach and water.

Not disinfecting high-touch surfaces
Overlooking high-touch surfaces like faucets, light switches, and doorknobs can lead to the spread of germs. It is also important to regularly disinfect these surfaces with an antibacterial cleaner or disinfectant wipes.

Neglecting shower curtains and liners
Shower curtains and liners can accumulate soap scum and mildew, leading to unsightly stains and odors. So, one should wash and scrub shower curtains and liners regularly or replace them when they show signs of wear.

Using dirty cleaning tools
Cleaning tools like sponges and scrub brushes can harbor bacteria and grime if not cleaned properly. Rinsing and sanitizing cleaning tools after each use and replacing them regularly ensures effective cleaning.

Not cleaning the showerhead
Mineral deposits and mildew can accumulate in the showerhead, leading to reduced water flow and mold growth. To clean it properly, one must remove the showerhead and soak it in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits, then scrub it clean and reattach it.

Leaving hair in the drain
Hair clogs in the bathroom are a common issue that can result in slow drainage and unpleasant odors. Regularly using a drain cover to catch hair and cleaning any hair buildup can prevent clogs.

Not cleaning toothbrush holders
Toothbrush holders can collect water, toothpaste residue, and bacteria. So, one must regularly wash toothbrush holders in hot, soapy water or run them through the dishwasher to clean them thoroughly.

Skipping the baseboards
Baseboards can accumulate dust and dirt over time, detracting from the overall cleanliness of the bathroom. Wiping down baseboards regularly as part of the cleaning routine maintains a polished look.

Not emptying the trash can regularly
Overlooking the bathroom trash can will result in unpleasant odors and bacteria buildup. One must empty and clean the trash can regularly. Also, one can consider using liners to make cleaning easier.

Forgetting the toilet tank
Cleaning the toilet bowl is a regular chore, but often, we forget about the toilet tank. The tank can collect mineral deposits and mildew, so it’s essential to remove the lid and clean it properly. Also, one should check for any issues with the flushing mechanism while one is at it.

Using excessive water
When cleaning, using too much water can lead to excess moisture, which promotes mold growth. Instead, use a damp cloth and dry surfaces thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup.

Rushing through cleaning
Rushing through cleaning can lead to missed areas and ineffective results. Instead, it’s important to take time and clean methodically, ensuring all surfaces and corners of the bathroom are addressed.

Using abrasive scrubbing pads
When cleaning surfaces, it’s important to avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads as they can damage finishes and leave scratches. Instead, use non-abrasive scrubbing pads or brushes to safely remove stains and grime.

Mixing cleaning products
Mixing different cleaning products, especially those containing bleach, can create toxic fumes. So, it is important to use one cleaning product at a time and follow label instructions carefully. Also, one should never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning agents.

Storing cleaning products incorrectly
Leaving cleaning products exposed to extreme temperatures or sunlight can reduce their effectiveness. Storing cleaning products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and checking expiration dates to ensure they are still effective is essential.

Ignoring ventilation
Not ventilating the bathroom properly during and after showers can lead to excessive moisture, which encourages mold and mildew growth. So, one must turn on the bathroom fan during showers and leave it on for a while afterward. One can also open windows to improve air circulation.

Incorporating these tips into the bathroom cleaning routine will help avoid common mistakes and maintain a sparkling, hygienic space. A clean bathroom looks inviting and promotes a healthier environment for the family. By adopting these practices, one can ensure that their bathroom remains clean and fresh.

Popular Reads

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Many individuals mistakenly believe that dementia is a disease, but it’s a term used to describe symptoms related to memory, social abilities, and thinking. These symptoms can be challenging to manage and can impact daily activities. However, healthcare professionals often recommend implementing a healthy meal plan as a way to improve management. If you’re interested in learning about how your food intake can reduce the risk of developing dementia, read on. What is dementia? As previously mentioned, dementia is not a specific disease. Instead, health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease are among its most frequent causes in older adults. Other known causes of dementia include damage to the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the brain, the formation of balloon-like proteins in the brain, and the breakdown of connections and nerve cells in the brain. While memory loss is one of its most recognizable signs, this symptom alone does not mean one has dementia. Most symptoms of this group of health issues can vary depending on the cause. Hence, here are some of the most common signs to look out for. Memory loss Difficulties while communicating Reasoning and problem-solving issues Poor control of movements and coordination Disorientation Confusion What are the foods that can help reduce the risk of dementia? Typically, dementia and Alzheimer’s are known to be caused by a combination of several factors, such as environmental, lifestyle, and genetic. Furthermore, developing issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can contribute to cognitive decline in patients. Therefore, healthcare professionals suggest the consumption of nutrient-rich foods to reduce dementia risk as one grows older. Some of the foods that can be added to one’s meal plan are: Avocados Avocados are one of the most commonly known superfoods, which can provide the brain with the needed energy without a spike in blood sugar levels.

Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

There is nothing a warm shower cannot resolve. Showering after a long day can be a stress reliever and enhance one’s mood instantly. It also has several other health benefits besides cleansing the body, including facilitating cold relief, boosting immunity, and relieving muscle pain. However, not bathing the right way can give rise to skin conditions such as rashes and eczema. Here are some common mistakes one should avoid while bathing and showering: Not moisturizing after a shower Wiping after a bath can reduce the body’s moisture, causing dry skin, which can lead to rashes and itching. Dermatologists recommend applying body lotion and moisturizer immediately after a shower to retain skin texture and prevent dryness. One should look for hypoallergenic moisturizers that do not have any added fragrances. Bathing in scorching hot water Scorching hot water can damage keratin cells in the skin’s outer layer. Consequently, the skin becomes dry and dehydrated. It is important to balance the water temperature before stepping into the shower. Ideally, the temperature of the water should be lukewarm. Using the wrong towel An absorbent towel that does not feel rough is ideal for wiping oneself after a shower. The most effective way to select the right towel is to check its density, measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Towels with GSMs between 400 and 550 are considered ideal for use after bathing. One should avoid towels below a GSM of 400, as these towels can be thin and rough, causing skin dryness. Moreover, towels made of superior-quality Egyptian or Turkish cotton are extremely soft and perfect for the skin. Soaping the arms and legs excessively While it is important to wash and clean one’s arms and legs, these areas typically do not collect much oil and dust. Hence, scrubbing them excessively can dry out these areas and hamper their natural texture.

15 signs of a weak immune system

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that act as the body’s defense mechanism against diseases and infections. The system —the innate immune system that people are born with and the adaptive immune system, which develops due to exposure to toxins and microbes. Both parts work together to keep infection-causing germs and toxins. So, weak immunity can make the body susceptible to diseases and other health issues. High stress levels The American Psychological Association suggests that chronic stress weakens the immune system. This is because stress lowers the number of white blood cells (i.e., lymphocytes) in the body that fight infections, increasing the risk of infections such as the common cold. Persistent cold Most adults develop two to three colds per year, which usually last from 7 to 10 days. During this period, the immune system forms antibodies to fight the virus. However, if one keeps catching a cold or is dealing with common cold symptoms for a long time, it could be a sign of weak immunity. Slow-healing wounds When one develops a cut or a wound, the body immediately goes into damage control mode to stop any bleeding and regenerate skin. Immune cells in the body guide this process. However, when dealing with a weakened immune system, wounds take longer to heal. This can make one more susceptible to infections as well. Frequent infections Those with a lowered immunity are at a higher risk of contracting infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, bronchitis, and skin infections. They are also more likely to experience autoimmune disorders, organ inflammation, blood disorders such as anemia, and growth and developmental delays. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, some signs of weak immunity include: – Having more than four ear infections in a year – Developing pneumonia twice within a year – Dealing with chronic sinusitis or more than three episodes of bacterial sinusitis in a year Fatigue If one constantly feels tired despite getting enough sleep, it may be a sign of weak immunity.