The bathroom is a haven for all types of bacteria for a few different reasons. The fact that it is warm and humid just creates a breeding ground for all types of nasty things that can make you or members of your family sick. If you want to ensure your home is safe, then you will need to know how to keep the bathroom squeaky clean. Additionally, you will need to know basic tips that will help keep the space hygienic.


The bathroom is a haven for all types of bacteria for a few different reasons. The fact that it is warm and humid just creates a breeding ground for all types of nasty things that can make you or members of your family sick. If you want to ensure your home is safe, then you will need to know how to keep the bathroom squeaky clean. Additionally, you will need to know basic tips that will help keep the space hygienic.

Did you know that the bathroom is full of bacterial like E. Coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa? You may not know what all of those are, but you probably realize they sound quite dangerous (How to Keep the House Hygienic). That’s because they are. 

Follow these tips in addition to regular basic cleaning to keep your bathroom hygienic and safe for your family.

dirty tile wiped clean with sponge

Use Vinegar

Vinegar is one of the most important tools you could use in the bathroom. It will kill bacteria that already exists and then prevent more from forming. Additionally, vinegar will help to remove soap scum and mold.

All you need to do is fill a spray bottle with vinegar and then spritz down everything in the bathroom once a week. You can also pour it down the drain to clear any bacteria there. For solid surfaces, soak a cloth in vinegar and then wipe down everything regularly. The sink and vanity will harbor the most bacteria, so make sure you clean here often.

two hand towel hanging side by side

Towels

Each member of the family should use their own hand towels, and those towels should only be used for the hands, not the body or feet. Towels should always be kept hung up and dry. If they aren’t dry, then they will be the perfect place for bacteria to thrive.

Change out the hand towels regularly. You should never leave them up for more than a few days at a time.

rinsing off hands, covered in soap

Washing Hands and Toilet Use

Any time you use the toilet, you need to wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap. Always flush the toilet and close the lid before you wash your hands and not afterward. Choose soap in a push pump or hands-free dispenser to avoid bacteria and germs growing on bars that tend to sit in wet trays.

Additionally, always close the toilet lid before flushing. This keeps soiled water from splashing onto the floor and spreading bacteria.

close up of toothbrush

Toothbrushes

Don’t wait until toothbrushes are frayed to replace them. If you do, then you are allowing them to grow bacteria between brushing. Just imagine putting all that bacteria right in your mouth! Be sure to replace every toothbrush every three months. Additionally, keep them in a dry, clean place. Never leave the toothbrushes out on the sink because they will be exposed to more bacteria.

fancy victorian restroom with ventilation

Ventilation

You need to make sure your ventilation system is working properly in the bathroom. If it isn’t, humidity will become trapped, and this will allow bacteria to grow much faster. Always make sure you allow the bathroom to air out, especially after hot showers or baths.

Overall, even if you clean the bathroom regularly, it isn’t exactly a hygienic space. You do need to take extra steps to ensure the whole room is safe from bacteria and germs. Be sure to go over these steps with your family as well so that everyone in the household will be able to practice good bathroom hygiene. Additionally, remember to choose environmentally friendly products when you clean so that you don’t expose anyone to harmful chemicals in the bathroom either.

Works Cited

How to Keep the House Hygienic. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2014, from So Feminine: http://www.sofeminine.co.uk/personal-life/keep-house-hygienic-d39052c480954.html