Maintaining a bathroom doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive, even if you’re renting. Our recent survey revealed that many complaints to housing authorities involve issues that could be prevented or at least minimised with a few simple steps.
From blocked toilets to limescale build-up, these easy maintenance tips will help you keep your bathroom clean, functional and problem free.
Managing toilet blockages
To keep your toilet running smoothly, only flush toilet paper down the pan. Items like sanitary products, hair, kitchen towels and wipes can easily clog plumbing and cause blockages.
Regular cleaning is essential to avoid any nasty surprises. At least once a week, scrub the bowl with a toilet cleaner and brush, allowing the cleaner to sit for 10 minutes before flushing. For extra freshness, add a cup of bicarbonate of soda weekly or install an in-cistern cleaner to keep it sanitised after each use. Don’t forget to disinfect the flush handle regularly by wiping it and letting the disinfectant sit for a few minutes before drying.
Tackling and preventing mould
Mould thrives in the damp environment of bathrooms and is a common issue in all households. Proper ventilation is crucial to keep moisture levels down and stop mould growth. Always open windows and run extractor fans during and after bathing or showering. Wiping down bath surfaces and using a squeegee on shower glass removes much of the lingering moisture before it has a chance to settle - a quick step that can reduce mould risk significantly.
If you notice small areas of mould appearing, try a natural solution first by mixing white vinegar with water (two parts vinegar to one part water) in a spray bottle. Spray the area and leave it for 30 to 60 minutes before wiping clean. For extensive mould on areas like walls or ceilings or around your shower or tub, or if the problem is recurring, it’s best to inform your landlord or consult a professional as soon as possible.
Keeping your sink drains clear
A blocked sink is inconvenient but often preventable. Avoid letting hair and toothpaste clumps go down the drain, as these can accumulate and cause blockages. Running hot water through the drain weekly can help dissolve soap residue and grime.
Avoid overusing harsh chemical cleaners, which can harm pipes over time. Instead, try a sink cleaning brush for manual clearing of the drain. These cost as little as £2 from most online shops.
Caring for your taps
Hard water can cause stubborn limescale on taps. A natural remedy is a mixture of lemon juice and water (three parts lemon juice to one part water). Apply with a soft sponge, let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Regularly wiping water splashes from taps helps prevent scale build-up as well.
Shower and bath maintenance
Apply the same limescale prevention tips used for taps to your showerhead. Clean your shower tray at least once a week for best results.
The right cleaning method does depend on your bathroom surfaces, though. If you’re not sure what you have, ask your landlord to help. This will make sure you don’t cause any unnecessary damage.
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Acrylic or ceramic: Spray a white vinegar and water solution, then gently scrub with a sponge to tackle soap scum. For tough stains, a baking soda paste left for 30 minutes works well before scrubbing.
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Stone resin: Use the vinegar, water and lemon mix. Spray and wipe with a soft cloth, letting it sit longer for limescale deposits before wiping.
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Natural stone: Rinse thoroughly and use only products designed specifically for natural stone to avoid damage.
By taking these straightforward steps, you can keep your bathroom in great shape, prevent common issues and enjoy a cleaner, fresher space every day. Remember, a little regular care goes a long way in avoiding costly repairs and maintaining a comfortable home environment.
However, If problems do arise beyond simple fixes, don’t hesitate to reach out to your landlord or a professional for support.
