31-05-2025
You're cleaning your bathroom wrong! Expert reveals the proper way to scrub your shower and toilet - and why you should NEVER mix products
It's one of the worst chores to get landed with.
But experts have now warned that – aside from the yuck factor – there are hidden dangers linked to cleaning your bathroom.
Common household cleaning errors could be damaging expensive fixtures and putting family health at risk, they said.
And the most frequent mistake is mixing cleaning products together.
John Horner, Managing Director at luxury bathroom company 34 St John, said most homeowners unknowingly use harsh cleaning methods that strip finishes from high-end fixtures.
They also create harmful chemical cocktails in their bathrooms.
'The most frequent mistake we see is mixing cleaning products together to create a 'super cleaner' which people believe will tackle stubborn stains better,' he said.
'This actually creates toxic fumes that can cause serious respiratory issues and damage delicate finishes on premium fittings.'
This dangerous practice typically happens when bleach products combine with either vinegar-based cleaners or ammonia products, he explained.
The chemical reaction produces chlorine gas, which irritates the respiratory system and can cause serious health problems.
Guidance from the UK Health Security Agency echoes this concern, stating: 'Avoid mixing cleaning products together as this can create toxic fumes.'
Poor ventilation can exacerbate the issue, Mr Horner explained, as chemical vapours from cleaning products concentrate in small bathroom spaces.
'Always open windows and run exhaust fans during and after cleaning,' he said.
'This removes chemical fumes and prevents excessive moisture that leads to mould growth behind fixtures.'
Other mistakes include using abrasive cleaners on specialty finishes, he said.
'Many luxury taps and fittings feature special coatings like brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze,' he explained.
'Harsh cleaning powders scratch these surfaces permanently.
'For most premium finishes, warm water with mild soap applied with a soft cloth offers effective cleaning without damage.'
Another mistake involves neglecting frequently-touched surfaces during routine cleaning.
Door handles, light switches and tap handles harbour more bacteria than most bathroom surfaces, yet often receive less cleaning attention, he warned.
'People focus on visibly dirty areas like toilets while overlooking touch points that transfer germs most readily,' Mr Horner pointed out.
'Standard protocol should include wiping these areas daily with appropriate cleaners.'
The fifth mistake involves improper storage of cleaning products in bathroom environments.
'Many homeowners keep cleaning supplies under the sink, which seems logical but actually creates multiple problems,' Mr Horner said.
He explained that warm, humid bathroom conditions degrade product effectiveness while proximity to water sources increases accident risks.
Another piece of advice is that people should always use protective gloves for cleaning tasks, as repeated exposure to chemicals causes skin irritation.
And, finally, daily light cleaning is preferable to a 'deep clean' once every fortnight, as it can prevent build-up that later requires harsh treatment.
