In a female-led home, the man is often expected to take care of most chores, the woman may chip in at her discretion, but the dirty work in particular, typically remains the domain of the submissive. Cleaning the bathroom is a prime example of a job that even the most self-reliant head of household is often happy to have taken care of for her… and there are ways to do it with her in mind. My wife is very particular about how the bathrooms in her home must be cleaned.
Here are her step-by-step directions for cleaning a full bathroom and how I prepare:
I start by gathering the cleaning supplies. I get all the necessary cleaners and tools ready before I begin. This includes gloves, a bucket, cleaning solutions (e.g., bathroom cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant), a toilet bowl cleaner, a scrub brush, a sponge, and a mop (or Swiffer). Then I ventilate the bathroom. I open a window or turn on the exhaust fan to be sure I can breathe while cleaning.
- Clear all surfaces
Remove any items from countertops, shelves, and bathroom fixtures such as toothbrushes, soap dispensers, decorative items, bottles of product, etc. Take note of where things were. Place them in a separate location outside the bathroom.
- Wipe down countertops and sinks
Apply an appropriate bathroom cleaner to the countertops and sinks. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe them thoroughly, removing any stains, grime, or soap residue. Rinse with clean water and dry with a cloth.
- Clean mirrors and windows
Spray glass cleaner onto a lint-free cloth or paper towel, then wipe down mirrors and any glass surfaces in the bathroom, such as windows or glass shower doors. Ensure a streak-free finish by working in a circular motion.
- Scrub the bathtub/shower
Apply a suitable bathroom cleaner to the bathtub or shower walls. Use a scrub brush or sponge to thoroughly scrub away soap scum, mildew, and stains. Pay special attention to grout lines and corners. Rinse the surfaces with water once clean.
- Clean the toilet
Apply toilet bowl cleaner to the inside of the toilet bowl, allowing it to sit for a few minutes. Scrub the bowl using a toilet brush, paying attention to the waterline and under the rim. Clean the exterior of the toilet with a disinfectant cleaner, including the seat, lid, and base.
- Clean the toilet accessories
Wipe down any toilet paper holders, towel racks, or other bathroom accessories with a cloth sprayed with a disinfectant cleaner.
- Mop the floors
Sweep or vacuum the bathroom floor to remove any loose dirt, hair, or debris. Then, mop the floor using a floor cleaner. I like to use the Swiffer Wet Jet mentioned above. Pay attention to corners and edges, and ensure the floor is thoroughly cleaned and dried.
- (Optional) Clean the grout
You may want to clean the grout lines if your bathroom has tile and grout. Apply a grout cleaner or make a paste of baking soda and water, then use a grout brush to scrub the grout lines. Rinse with water and dry.
- Replace the bathroom items
Once everything is clean and dry, return the items you removed in Step 1, such as toothbrushes, soap dispensers, and decorative items. Be sure to put things back where they were or the head of your house prefers.
Remember to always read and follow the instructions on your cleaning products for best results and safety.
And that’s it! Following these steps will help you keep your bathrooms sparkling. A good homemaker will take pride even in the dirtiest and least appealing chores. If you can take pleasure in cleaning her tubs and toilets, I’m sure she will happily let you.