A new year is the perfect time for a fresh start, and what better place to begin than your bathroom? As one of the most frequently used rooms in your home, the bathroom can accumulate germs, grime, and clutter over time. Giving it a deep clean and incorporating healthier, eco-friendly cleaning habits can ensure a fresh, sparkling space all year long. In this guide, we’ll cover tips for making a clean sweep in the bathroom and share healthy cleaning methods to keep things spotless without harsh chemicals.
1. Declutter and Organize First
Before you start scrubbing, take some time to declutter your bathroom. An organized space not only looks better but also makes cleaning more manageable.
- Purge Expired Products: Go through your medicine cabinet, drawers, and shelves, and discard any expired medications, skincare products, or toiletries. This frees up valuable space and reduces clutter.
- Sort and Store: Use clear containers or labeled baskets to group similar items together. For example, store all your hair products in one container and skincare in another. This makes it easier to find what you need and keeps surfaces clear.
- Create a Minimalist Countertop: Limit the number of items on your countertop to essentials like hand soap and a toothbrush holder. Keeping surfaces clear helps reduce dust buildup and makes regular cleaning faster.
2. Use Natural Cleaning Solutions
Many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Fortunately, you can achieve a sparkling clean bathroom using healthier, natural alternatives.
- DIY All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of essential oil, such as tea tree or lavender, for a pleasant scent and additional antibacterial properties. This solution works well for cleaning countertops, mirrors, and sinks.
- Baking Soda Scrub: For stubborn stains in your sink, tub, or toilet, sprinkle baking soda on the surface and scrub with a damp sponge. Baking soda is mildly abrasive, making it effective at removing grime without damaging surfaces.
- Lemon for Shine: Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and works wonders on water stains and soap scum. Rub half a lemon over chrome fixtures and rinse with water to leave them gleaming.
- Hydrogen Peroxide for Mold: If you’re dealing with mold in grout lines, spray hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected areas. Let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing with an old toothbrush. It’s a safer alternative to bleach and effectively kills mold spores.
3. Focus on High-Touch Surfaces
High-touch surfaces in the bathroom can harbor bacteria and viruses, so it’s important to give them extra attention.
- Light Switches and Door Handles: Wipe these down with a disinfecting solution regularly, especially during cold and flu season.
- Toilet Handle and Seat: Spray the handle and seat with a natural disinfectant and wipe clean. Don’t forget to clean under the toilet seat, as this area can often be overlooked.
- Faucet Handles: Faucet handles are touched multiple times a day, so clean them frequently using a vinegar-based cleaner or antibacterial wipes.
4. Freshen the Air Naturally
Bathrooms can develop lingering odors, especially in colder months when ventilation is limited. Instead of relying on chemical-laden air fresheners, try these healthier alternatives:
- Essential Oil Diffuser: Use a diffuser with your favorite essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or citrus, to keep your bathroom smelling fresh.
- DIY Potpourri: Make your own potpourri by drying citrus peels, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Place them in a decorative bowl for a natural fragrance boost.
- Activated Charcoal: Place small bags of activated charcoal in your bathroom to absorb odors and moisture. It’s a natural, chemical-free way to keep the air fresh.
5. Prevent Future Grime Buildup
Once your bathroom is clean, take steps to prevent grime from accumulating again.
- Squeegee the Shower: After each shower, use a squeegee to remove water from the walls and glass doors. This helps prevent water spots and soap scum buildup.
- Keep a Cleaning Schedule: Establish a weekly cleaning routine to keep your bathroom looking its best. Regular cleaning reduces the need for deep scrubbing sessions and makes upkeep easier.
- Replace Towels Regularly: Damp towels can harbor bacteria and develop unpleasant odors. Replace hand towels every two to three days and bath towels after three to four uses.
6. Add Finishing Touches
Once your bathroom is clean and organized, consider adding a few finishing touches to create a calming, spa-like atmosphere.
- Greenery: Add a small potted plant or two. Plants like aloe vera or pothos thrive in humid environments and can improve air quality.
- Plush Mats and Towels: Invest in high-quality, plush bath mats and towels. Not only do they feel luxurious, but they also make your bathroom more inviting.
- Decorative Storage: Use stylish containers or baskets to store extra toilet paper, hand towels, and toiletries. This keeps the bathroom functional while adding a decorative element.
The Final Sweep
Making a clean sweep in your bathroom for the new year is a great way to start fresh and set a positive tone for the months ahead. By decluttering, using natural cleaning solutions, and maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, you can create a healthier, more inviting space. Small changes, like freshening the air naturally and preventing grime buildup, can go a long way in keeping your bathroom looking and feeling fresh. So grab your gloves, mix up some natural cleaners, and get ready to welcome the new year with a sparkling clean bathroom!
If you’re looking for a bigger clean sweep, our design team is happy to help design a new, streamlined bathroom design!