I would like to talk about a modest area of most homes: the bathroom. Do not underestimate the power these diminutive areas have to add comfort and refinement to your home. These pint-sized rooms communicate a powerful message about your housekeeping. Even more, the condition of the bathroom illustrates your concern for the comfort and well-being of your family and guests alike.
Make a quick assessment of one of your bathrooms. Does it need general cleaning? You actually should be able to completely clean a bathroom, from the shower to the floor, in under 20 minutes. Be methodical and use appropriate cleaning solutions. I generally clean the sink, counters and cabinets. I then move on to the shower and/or bathtub: remove everything first, discarding unwanted bottles, soap pieces and even toys. Make sure you clean off all of the high edges and even the rails if you have sliding shower doors. Wipe off the bottles and containers before you replace them. Next, move on to the toilet. Clean all surfaces. Use an appropriate cleaning product and brush for the bowl. Now, move on to the mirror and faucets, polishing these to a beautiful shine. You can finish up by cleaning the floor and floorboards. You may need to vacuum or sweep before mopping.
Now that you have a fresh, clean bathroom, you can step back and accessorize. Make sure it is well stocked with tissue, baby wipes, toilet paper, soap, air freshener and even lotion. Consider adding pretty towels that are soft and absorbent. A basket of assorted magazines is always a nice touch. Do not forget to have a trash container conveniently located. This container can be attractive and should be lined and changed frequently.
Your bathrooms should be maintained daily. This does not neccesarily involve an intense cleaning every day. Instead, a clean bathroom should be incoporated into your family’s lifestyle. Your children can learn to help keep the bathrooms clean. They can pick up their own clothes and towels. As they get older, they can be taught to clean the sink and mirrors after they have finished getting dressed. Boys can even be taught certain “rim rules” that will always help maintain the general appearance of the bathroom.
Your bathrooms can be a point of contention, a source of embarrassment or simply another lovely room in your home. “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (I Corinthians 14:33).
Tags: cleaning