How to Clean Your Bathroom

Q: What’s the best way to clean my bathroom? – Jessica Beck, New York City

A: Hire a maid. Then you won’t have to. I mean, who wants to clean a bathroom? Ok, fine – so maybe the maid route doesn’t make sense. If you do it on your own, you’ll save some money, and while it sounds like a rough job, it’s really not a big deal.

What You’ll Need

• Ajax (for tiles) or Soft Scrub (for plastics and Formica)
• Windex
• Swiffer Wet Jet
• Soap Scum Remover
• Mildew Remover
• Paper towels
• Regular or Disposable Toilet Brush
• Sponges

Step 1: Soak the Toilet

The first thing you should always do is to pour either Ajax or Soft Scrub in and around your toilet bowl (depending upon what it’s made of). It needs some time to soak in, so let it marinate while you clean the rest of the bathroom. Also, be sure not to pour any of these cleaners directly on the toilet seat – it will eat away at it and leave your throne uncomfortably abrasive. Instead, spray some Windex onto a paper towel and scrub the seat.

Sinks

Sinks aren’t that much different than toilets when it comes to cleaning, except you don’t have to contend with deuce. Again, pour some Ajax or Softscrub into the basin, and use a sponge to scrub away grime. This time you don’t have to let it soak. To clean countertops, use Windex.

Mirrors and Handles

Apply Windex to a paper towel and scrub.

Shower

We recommend a Soap Scum Remover, but you can also use Ajax. Apply liberally and scrub away with paper towel or sponge, then use the showerhead to blast away the residue. In addition, make sure to check shower curtains for mildew. If you find some, just clean it up with a mildew remover.

Floors

The easiest option is to use the Swiffer. A cheaper option is to clean with a soap and water mixture. If and only if you have tiles (not Formica), you can bring in the big guns and use Ajax.

Finale: Scrub and Flush the Toilet

What’s the last thing you always do before you leave the bathroom? No, not give yourself “up eyes” in the mirror. The correct answer is flush the toilet. So right before you’re done, use your toilet brush to scrub the bowl (remember to get under the rim), and then flush. Your bathroom should be ready to be defiled again.