As much as you dread hearing this, the bathroom really needs your attention on a weekly basis. By neglecting the most frequently use room in the house, mildew and grime will build up, bacteria that can make your family sick will go unchecked and you’ll be embarrassed when guests drop by and ask to use the facilities. Don’t despair because once you do a complete and thorough job this time around, all the subsequent touch-ups will be quick and easy. So, grab your microfiber cleaning cloth and let’s go fill the toilet paper dispensers.

It’s probably a safe bet that scrubbing the commode is your least favorite chore in the entire universe. We can totally sympathize, so let’s just get it over with and tackle it first. Some things to do before you start is that you’ll want to get a long-handled, sturdy brush, some rubber gloves (like the ones also used for washing dishes) and to read the labels on all products so that you don’t accidently mix a product that contains bleach with another that contains ammonia or else toxic gases could be released. Products that are safe for the porcelain bowl could ruin other surfaces like counters, showers and floors, so be careful. If you are disgusted by storing a bacteria-laden brush from week to week, then use disposable brushes, although the cost could add up quickly. It’s a breeze to remove stains by pouring one-quarter cup of borax (a laundry booster) in the bowl and allow it to sit overnight and scrub it in the morning. You can also save yourself a lot of work by dropping the two denture tablets, leaving it overnight and finishing first thing the next day.

To make countertops and sinks made of cultured marble shine and last for years to come, avoid using any abrasive products which will make scratches that dirt can settle into. For other counter surfaces such as laminate, a scrubbing pad can be used to loosen dirt. A recipe for a solution that can be used anywhere in the bathroom is to mix three tablespoons baking soda, one-half cup ammonia and two cups warm water. Anytime when you’re using ammonia, always keep the room well ventilated and wear gloves.

The best thing to make mirrors sparkle and streak-free like ammonia or vinegar. Make a solution by mixing one-third cup clear ammonia (or vinegar instead) with one gallon of warm water and pour into a spray container. After spraying the mirror, immediately buff with a lint-free paper towel, chamois or newspaper.

You won’t feel very fresh after you’ve just washed yourself in a grimy shower or tub. To make your life a whole lot easier, take just one minute after you bathe to wipe down the shower enclosure and tub or use a squeegee on glass and smooth shower walls. Glass shower doors and enclosures will glisten when hard water spots are removed with the vinegar and water solution we discussed earlier. Use a non-abrasive product for fiberglass and porcelain tubs and don’t forget to remove hair form the drain. Before you know it, you’ll be done…until next time!

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