How to Make Bathrooms Smell Good
Although there are unavoidable times your bathroom might smell less than fresh, in general, keeping the bathroom smelling good not only makes it a more pleasant space, but helps it appear cleaner and more attractive. Reaching for a can of air freshener is an easy solution, but the spray only masks bad smells and can cause respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
Air it out. A bathroom that stays damp easily can develop a musty, mildew odor. After a shower or bath, leave the bathroom fan running or open the window until the steam dissipates and the walls and floor are dry. If your bathroom lacks a built-in fan or window, use a small electric fan to blow away moisture after bathing. A dehumidifier is another option if your bathroom is especially humid. Hang up towels and bathmats to dry, and wash them at least once each week. Pull the shower curtain closed after bathing to let the surface dry completely.
Clean it up. Bathrooms get dirty and stinky, especially if small children use the facilities. Mop the floors at least weekly; this might be a daily chore if you have a pottytraining boy in your home. Pay special attention to the floor around the toilet and the toilet seat hinges and rim. Keep the sink area free of standing water, toothpaste globs, spilled toiletries and shed hair. Line the bathroom trash container with disposable plastic bags to prevent a build-up of grunge on the can, and empty the trash daily.
Absorb odors. When it comes to the bathroom, odors happen. Keep the room fresh with natural odor absorbers.
Fill a pretty glass vase or bowl with white vinegar or baking soda, then set it on the bathroom counter. Both household products help absorb odors out of the air, leaving the room fresh and pleasant. Another natural odor absorber is activated carbon. You can find this at pet stores in the aquarium section. Pour the carbon into a pretty container, and set it on the bathroom counter or the top of the toilet tank.
Add a pleasant scent. You can add mild fragrance to your bathroom without harsh sprays. Set a basket of potpourri in the corner of the room. A mixture of pine, rose petals, spices and citrus peels smells natural. Another way to add fragrance is a scented soy candle. Light the candle before using the toilet, then blow it out once you are finished. Scented reed diffusers are another option; these have a glass vase filled with fragrant essential oils. Long reeds absorb the oil, then disperse the fragrance into the air. (www.homeguides.
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