If you’re anything like me then you probably absolutely hate to clean your bathroom. It just seems like it is already the dirtiest area of your house, made worse by even the thought of how much bacteria is packed into such a small space.
Unfortunately, the sad reality is that there really isn’t an option to skip over cleaning your bathroom. Even delaying it can have some pretty serious consequences for both you and your home. Let’s take a look at what actually happens if you don’t clean your bathroom frequently and well.
Bacteria and Germ Build-up
One of the biggest concerns that pop up when we neglect cleaning the bathroom is that it becomes what I can only call a “breeding ground” for all sorts of harmful microorganisms, including harmful bacteria and germs. Bathrooms are pretty much the perfect spot for these bad boys, thanks to the usually warm and humid conditions.
From the toilet seat to the sink and the shower to the floor, there isn’t a surface in your bathroom that would be considered “safe,” as each can harbor harmful bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus. These bacteria can cause all sorts of illnesses, from gastrointestinal to urinary tract infections and even respiratory problems. If you aren’t regularly cleaning, these bacteria and germs can multiply rapidly, creating a real risk to your health and family.
Bad Odors and Mold Growth
Another real issue that comes along with a dirty bathroom is unpleasant smells. The combination of all that dirt, moisture, and bacteria can create a foul smell that can be hard to eliminate if you aren’t staying up on your cleaning efforts. And, let’s face it, no one wants to have to face a stinky bathroom, especially if you are having guests over!
There is also mold growth. Mold loves damp environments, and bathrooms are pretty well known for their high moisture levels, especially if you like to take long, hot showers or baths. If not taken care of, mold can spread quickly on all sorts of surfaces including walls, tiles, ceilings, and inside cabinets. From there, it can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory problems, especially in those who already have pre-existing conditions like asthma or allergies.
Fixture and Surface Damage
You might not know this, but neglecting proper bathroom cleaning and maintenance can also cause damage to your bathroom’s fixtures and surfaces. Over time, accumulated dirt, grime, and hard water deposits can cause discoloration, corrosion, and sometimes even permanent damage to faucets, showerheads, and other metal surfaces. There’s also the issue of stains on tiles, grout, and countertops, which can become stubborn messes that are seriously a pain to remove, forcing you to have to deal with a bathroom that doesn’t look nearly as nice as it should, or even forcing you to replace all sorts of pieces in the space.
Regularly cleaning your bathroom keeps it clean and hygienic, and overall, it will be a more pleasant space in your home. Not doing so can expose you and your family to harmful bacteria and germs, bad smells, mold growth, and even damage that can be expensive, time-consuming, or both to fix. So take the time to clean your bathroom regularly and give yourself the gift of a healthier, cleaner, and overall better space!