How to Choose Bathroom Cleaning Supplies

The bathroom is the one area of the house where cleaning is dreaded and unfortunately it's also the room that poses the most difficult cleaning issues to solve. As with any chore, you need the right supplies to do the job well.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Protect your hands with latex gloves. Standard dishwashing gloves work well and are reusable, just be sure that you only use the gloves to clean bathrooms and they don't do double duty in the kitchen, as it transfers unwanted germs. Disposable gloves work well and are available in bulk. Many are latex free for those who are allergic.

2. Stock the cleaning supply closet with microfiber cloths for cleaning mirrors, soft cotton rags or paper towels, a large scrub brush, a new toothbrush dedicated only to bathroom cleaning, a broom, mop and bucket.

3. Keep a stock of basic cleaning supplies on hand like a streak-free glass cleaner, a general purpose disinfecting cleaner and toilet bowl cleaner.

4. Add additional cleaners for problem areas like mildew, hard water stains and soap scum. These supplies help break down stains, so tougher stains require these specialty products and a little elbow grease. For lighter stains, a general purpose cleaner and a good rinse is enough.

5. Prevent hard water stains from etching your bathroom surfaces. Clean hard water stains at least once a quarter and immediately remove water from surfaces with a wipe or squeegee.

Tips & Warnings

• Many of bathroom cleaning supplies give off heavy fumes, so ensure the bathroom has adequate ventilation.
• Hard water stains are difficult to remove once they have set in because if left untreated, water spots will etch themselves into the surface.