Bathrooms are one of the most frequently used rooms in our homes, and they require more than a quick wipe to stay hygienic and fresh. Despite regular cleaning routines, many areas are often overlooked, becoming hotbeds for dirt, bacteria, and mildew. Below, we’ll walk you through 12 commonly missed bathroom spots, why they need attention, and how to clean them effectively.
1. Light Fixtures and Vent Covers
When was the last time you cleaned the light fixtures in your bathroom? Light fixtures and vent covers are prone to collecting dust, grime, and even insects. Over time, this buildup can dull the brightness of your lights and reduce the efficiency of your vent.
- How to Clean: For light fixtures, use a damp cloth with a mild cleaner to wipe down the exterior. If possible, remove the cover to clean the inside. For vent covers, turn off the power, remove the cover, and wash it with warm soapy water. Be sure to vacuum the vent itself to remove dust.
- Why It Matters: Clean light fixtures provide better illumination, while clean vents improve air circulation, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
2. Toothbrush Holder and Soap Dispenser
The toothbrush holder and soap dispenser are high-touch items that are often neglected during regular cleaning. Toothpaste residue, soap scum, and bacteria can accumulate quickly, creating an unhygienic environment.
- How to Clean: If your toothbrush holder is dishwasher-safe, that’s a convenient option. Otherwise, soak it in hot, soapy water and use a small brush to scrub any tight spots. For soap dispensers, rinse them out thoroughly and wipe down the exterior with a disinfecting cleaner.
- Why It Matters: These items come in direct contact with your mouth or hands multiple times a day. Regular cleaning prevents the spread of bacteria and keeps them looking fresh.
3. Shower Curtain and Liner
Shower curtains and liners are magnets for mold, mildew, and soap scum. Over time, these materials can become discolored and even smelly if not cleaned regularly.
- How to Clean: For plastic liners, simply toss them in the washing machine with a bit of detergent and baking soda. Add a couple of towels to help scrub away grime. Fabric shower curtains can also be machine washed; just make sure to follow the care instructions. Air-drying is usually the best method to prevent shrinkage.
- Why It Matters: Mold and mildew are not only unsightly but also harmful to your health. Regularly cleaning your curtain and liner prevents buildup and prolongs their lifespan.
4. Behind the Toilet and Baseboards
The area behind the toilet is one of the most commonly missed spots. Dust, dirt, and even stray hairs can accumulate here, leading to a less-than-fresh bathroom environment. Baseboards around the bathroom can also collect dust and grime that’s easy to miss during routine cleanings.
- How to Clean: Use a long-handled duster or mop to reach behind the toilet. You may need to get down on your hands and knees with a disinfecting wipe or cloth to tackle stubborn areas. For baseboards, wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.
- Why It Matters: Clean, dust-free surfaces contribute to a healthier and more visually appealing bathroom. Keeping these areas clean also helps eliminate unpleasant odors.
5. Faucets and Showerheads
Water spots, mineral deposits, and soap residue can quickly build up on your faucets and showerheads, making them look dull and reducing water flow.
- How to Clean: For faucets, wipe them down with a vinegar solution to remove mineral deposits and water spots. For showerheads, unscrew them and soak them in vinegar overnight to break down hard water deposits. If you can’t remove the showerhead, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it around the head with a rubber band.
- Why It Matters: Clean faucets and showerheads not only look better but also function better, ensuring optimal water flow and pressure.
6. Towel Racks and Door Handles
Towel racks and door handles are high-traffic touchpoints that can harbor germs and bacteria. They’re often skipped during regular cleanings, but they should be disinfected regularly, especially in shared bathrooms.
- How to Clean: Use a disinfecting wipe or a cloth with an antibacterial cleaner to thoroughly wipe down towel racks and door handles. Pay extra attention to the small crevices where dust can accumulate.
- Why It Matters: Regularly disinfecting these touchpoints helps reduce the spread of germs, contributing to a healthier bathroom environment.
7. Toilet Brush and Plunger Holder
While you use your toilet brush and plunger to clean the bathroom, they also need regular cleaning themselves. Left untouched, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria and germs.
- How to Clean: After each use, rinse the toilet brush with hot water and let it dry completely before storing it. Periodically soak it in a solution of bleach and water for about an hour. The plunger holder can be cleaned with a disinfecting wipe or soaked in the same bleach solution.
- Why It Matters: Keeping these tools clean ensures they’re effective the next time you need them, and it prevents bacteria from spreading around your bathroom.
8. Bathroom Fan and Air Vents
The bathroom fan and air vents are crucial for proper ventilation, but they often get overlooked. Over time, dust and grime can clog the vents, reducing airflow and potentially leading to moisture buildup and mold.
- How to Clean: Turn off the fan’s power before cleaning. Remove the vent cover and soak it in soapy water. Use a vacuum to remove dust from the fan and surrounding area. If the fan blades are dirty, use a damp cloth to wipe them down.
- Why It Matters: Clean vents ensure that your bathroom is properly ventilated, reducing the risk of mold and maintaining good air quality.
9. Cabinet Knobs and Drawer Pulls
Cabinet knobs and drawer pulls are touched multiple times a day but are often skipped during cleaning. They can collect germs, dirt, and grease, especially in a humid bathroom environment.
- How to Clean: Use a disinfecting wipe or a cloth with an all-purpose cleaner to thoroughly wipe down knobs and pulls. Pay attention to any decorative grooves where dust can accumulate.
- Why It Matters: Regularly cleaning these surfaces helps maintain a sanitary environment and keeps your bathroom fixtures looking polished.
10. Mirrors and Light Switch Plates
Smudges and fingerprints easily accumulate on mirrors and light switch plates but are often missed during routine cleanings. These surfaces are highly visible and can make your bathroom look untidy if not maintained.
- How to Clean: Use a glass cleaner or a vinegar solution to wipe down mirrors, leaving them streak-free. For light switch plates, use a disinfecting wipe to remove smudges and germs.
- Why It Matters: Clean mirrors improve the brightness and clarity of your reflection, while sanitized light switch plates help reduce the spread of germs.
11. Shower Drains and Sink Overflow Holes
Over time, shower drains can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris, while sink overflow holes can accumulate grime and mildew.
- How to Clean: For shower drains, use a drain snake or a baking soda and vinegar solution to clear any clogs. Rinse with hot water to flush away debris. Sink overflow holes can be cleaned by pouring a mixture of water and bleach down them to kill any bacteria.
- Why It Matters: Clean drains and overflow holes prevent clogs and unpleasant odors, ensuring your bathroom remains fresh and functional.
12. Trash Can and Bathroom Mat
Your trash can and bathroom mat are often overlooked, but they can harbor germs, odors, and bacteria if not cleaned regularly.
- How to Clean: Wipe down the inside and outside of your trash can with a disinfectant. For bathroom mats, check the care label and wash them in the washing machine with hot water to kill any bacteria.
- Why It Matters: Regularly cleaning your trash can and bathroom mat helps maintain a fresh, odor-free bathroom and reduces the spread of germs.
Make Your Bathroom Sparkle with Maid Service Today
Life gets busy, and keeping up with bathroom cleaning can be a challenge. If you’re overwhelmed with maintaining every nook and cranny, let us help! Maid Service Today offers professional cleaning services in San Mateo to keep your bathroom – and your entire home – looking spotless. Give us a call at (650) 977-2968 or visit our website to schedule a one-time or regular cleaning service. With our expert team, you’ll never have to worry about those forgotten spots again!