Cleaning the bathroom properly

In short: In the bathroom, limescale, soap residue, moisture and germs all come together, so a fixed order and the right product for each surface are worthwhile. Short routines after showering keep the big clean manageable.

In more detail: Acidic cleaners work against limescale, while mild all-purpose cleaners deal with grease and soap residue. Above all, never mix cleaning products and keep the room well ventilated while cleaning.

In detail

• Order: Work from top to bottom and from clean to dirty, so first the mirror and washbasin, then the shower or bath, and finally the toilet and floor.
• Separate cloths: Use a separate cloth or colour for the toilet so that germs are not spread to the washbasin or taps.
• Limescale: Acidic cleaners such as diluted citric acid or vinegar-based cleaners dissolve limescale; afterwards rinse thoroughly with clean water so that no acid is left on taps and joints.
• Delicate surfaces: Natural stone such as marble, as well as some taps and enamel, can be damaged by acid; only use products the manufacturer says are suitable.
• Never mix: Chlorine-based cleaners must never come into contact with acidic products such as limescale or toilet cleaners, because toxic chlorine gas can form; even when using them one after the other, rinse thoroughly with water in between.
• Grout and silicone: Dark spots in silicone joints are often mould; regular drying and airing prevent it, and badly affected joints are best replaced.
• Drain: A hair catcher in the shower and washbasin drain prevents blockages and is easy to empty into the general waste bin.
• Quick routine: After showering, dry the walls and glass with a squeegee and air the bathroom; this greatly reduces limescale stains and mould (kalkablagerungen-im-haushalt-entfernen, putzplan-und-reinigungsmittel, richtig-lueften-und-schimmel-vermeiden).