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The bathroom is where we wash and groom our bodies, make ourselves comfortable and leave all our worries behind. In the process, the bathroom becomes a haven of dust, dirt, exfoliates and bodily fluids, which, together with moisture, encourage the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. End result: a myriad of unpleasant odors.

Scrub the bathtub where dirt and grime create nasty and stinking stains. Apply a bathroom tub and tile cleaner and let it soak for a few minutes. This will give the product enough time to soften the dirt and grime, making it easier for you to scrub them off. Rinse well. Towel dry.

Scrub the shower stall where dirt, soap and calcium leave a smelly residue. A scum remover product is most effective in cleaning shower stalls thick with water spots and soap scum. Apply, scrub with a brush or sponge, rinse off and towel dry.

Wash and dry all the accessories in the bathtub and shower area. Be sure to clean the undersides of soap, body wash and hair care containers where mold tends to grow.

Clean the toilet bowl, which is a major source of bathroom stench. Apply toilet bowl cleaner to the inside walls of the bowl, scrub with a brush, making sure to reach the underside of the rim and then flush. Use an antibacterial spray and paper towels to clean the outside of the entire toilet bowl and water closet. Pay special attention to the rim and under the seat. Get on your knees to reach the bottom and back areas of the bowl.

Clean the vanity counter and washbasin (sink) where odor-causing scum and mold gather quickly. Scrub the counter with a tile cleaner. Rinse and wipe dry. Use a scum remover to remove soap scum and water spots from the fixtures. Wipe dry. Wash and dry all accessories that get in contact with water.

Sweep the floor to remove dust and hair, then mop with detergent soap and water to remove everything that landed there to deteriorate or decay. Rinse and wipe dry.

Replace all curtains, floor mats and used towels that reek musty odors from bacteria and mildew.

Empty and disinfect all trash bins.

How to Prevent Odor Causes

Wash or replace shower curtains and floor mats regularly. The more people that use the showers, the more frequently the curtains and floor mats should be washed or replaced.

Replace sponges, loofas and other bath implements regularly because bacteria grow on them very quickly.

Refresh bath, hand and face towels as often as necessary.

Dry the counter and sink area after washing your hands and face to minimize mildew and scum buildup.

Ventilate the bathroom or keep the exhaust fan on for a few minutes after every bath or shower to reduce moisture that encourages molds and mildew.

Empty the trash bins often. Use plastic liners for easy collection and disposal.