The One Room In Your Home That You Can Clean To Make The Rest Look Better

Even if the rest of your house is spotless, a dirty bathroom can give guests the impression that your entire home is messy. Fortunately, cleaning your bathroom isn't rocket science, and a quick wipe-down can be done in five minutes or less. First, start by spraying a vinegar and water solution on the toilet, counter, sink, and shower. Clean your toilet bowl and let the brush drip dry on the seat, then use a microfiber cloth to dry all the surfaces from top to bottom. Use toilet paper to wipe the outer parts of the loo and then flush it away, then put the toilet brush back in its holder. Lastly, do a spot check on the floor for any areas that might need a quick wipe-down.

Preparing your home for guests not only gives you personal satisfaction but also fosters a cozy and inviting atmosphere for them as well. Remember, the goal is to cultivate a hospitable environment rather than strive for flawlessness. There is no such thing as perfection. If guests are overly critical of your way of living, then at least you know who not to invite to your next get-together.

In addition to giving your bathroom a quick cleaning, you'll also want to make sure that you pay attention to the tiny details. Because, unfortunately, that's what your guests will be focusing on (both intentionally and unintentionally). Properly hang and/or fold your bathroom towels so that the tags are concealed, and always make sure that they're clean. To manage bathroom clutter, place it in a concealed box or storage area so that you can ensure guests won't stumble upon it if they happen to go searching. Make sure the bathroom is steam free and has been completely aired out. No one wants to use the facilities and walk into a sauna. 

Also, keep an eye out for mold of any kind. While the dark stuff is pretty noticeable, pink mold is a bit less conspicuous. But it's a visual turn-off, nonetheless. Finally, when in doubt, light a candle or have some sort of air freshener posted up in or around your bathroom. Candles don't just add ambiance to a room, but certain fragrances can actually mask unpleasant odors. Remember that a well-maintained bathroom gives the impression that you have things under control, even if there are a few dusty items here and there.

It's not always possible to make your home look like you routinely have maid service, which is why it's important to focus on mastering the basics. Arguably, the most important rule is to keep clutter at a minimum. This means removing anything that could be seen as a potential eyesore from becoming a focal point. When in doubt, invoke the laundry basket method. It involves taking a laundry basket and throwing any and all items into it that aren't in their designated places. Put the basket somewhere inconspicuous, like your laundry room, cover it with a towel, and tend to it once your guests have left.

When it comes to bedrooms, if you have the time, change the linens. Otherwise, just make the beds and fluff the pillows. Make sure to dust anything visible, and give your floors and furniture a thorough vacuuming, paying special attention to places where your fur children tend to spend the majority of their time. If you have a dining room, arrange your chairs around the table so that they're evenly spaced. Finally, make sure that you take out all the trash cans. While your guests might not see a full can, they'll most definitely be able to smell it. Don't let a full trash can sabotage all of your cleaning efforts. It's probably one of the easiest tasks to do and doesn't take that long, either.