Maintaining cleanliness in your bathroom is crucial for both hygiene and the longevity of your fixtures. Three common bathroom accessories—the reusable plastic soap dispenser, hand held shower head with on off lever, and shower holder attachment—require regular cleaning to function effectively and remain sanitary. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to clean these items properly.
Cleaning a Reusable Plastic Soap Dispenser
A reusable plastic soap dispenser is a convenient and eco-friendly option for dispensing soap. However, without proper cleaning, it can harbor bacteria and soap scum.
1. Disassemble the Dispenser: Begin by emptying any remaining soap and disassembling the dispenser. Remove the pump mechanism from the bottle.
2. Soak in Warm Soapy Water: Soak the bottle and pump parts in warm, soapy water for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to loosen any soap residue or build-up inside the dispenser.
3. Scrub the Components: Use a small brush, such as an old toothbrush, to scrub the inside of the bottle and the pump components. Pay attention to any nooks and crannies where soap scum might accumulate.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all parts thoroughly under warm running water to ensure that all soap and residue are removed.
5. Sanitize with Vinegar Solution: For additional sanitation, soak the components in a solution of one part vinegar to three parts water for about 5 minutes. This will help to kill any remaining bacteria.
6. Dry Completely: Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling the dispenser and refilling it with soap. This step is crucial to prevent mold growth inside the dispenser.
Cleaning a Hand Held Shower Head with an On/Off Lever
A handheld shower head with an on/off lever can easily become clogged with mineral deposits from hard water, which can affect water flow and reduce the effectiveness of the shower.
1. Detach the Shower Head: Detach the shower head from the hose. lots of shower heads can be unscrewed by hand, but you might need a wrench for more stubborn fittings. If using a wrench, protect the fixture with a cloth to avoid scratching.
2. Soak in Vinegar Solution: Fill a container with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Submerge the hand held shower head with on/off lever in the solution and let it soak for at least an hour. For heavy build-up, you may need to soak it overnight.
3. Scrub the Nozzles: After soaking, use a soft brush to gently scrub the nozzles to remove any loosened mineral deposits. Pay particular attention to the areas around the on/off lever to ensure it functions smoothly.
4. Rinse and Reattach: Rinse the shower head thoroughly under warm water, ensuring all vinegar and debris are flushed out. Reattach it to the hose, and run water through it for a few minutes to clear any remaining residue.
5. Polish the Exterior: Wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth to remove any remaining spots or streaks.
Cleaning a Shower Holder Attachment
The shower holder attachment is a small but essential part of your shower setup, keeping the shower head in place. Over time, it can collect soap scum and mildew.
1. Remove the Shower Holder: If possible, remove the shower holder attachment from the wall or mounting bracket. This will allow you to clean it more thoroughly.
2. Scrub with Soapy Water: Using warm soapy water and a brush, scrub the holder to remove any build-up. Be sure to get into all the grooves and crevices where dirt and mildew can accumulate.
3. Clean with Vinegar: If there is significant build-up, soak the holder in a vinegar solution (one part vinegar to three parts water) for 10-15 minutes. This will help to dissolve any stubborn residue.
4. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the holder thoroughly with warm water, and dry it completely with a soft cloth to prevent water spots and ensure it is ready for reinstallation.
5. Reinstall the Holder: Once dry, reattach the shower holder attachment to its original position. Ensure it is secure and functioning properly before using it again.
Regular cleaning of your reusable plastic soap dispenser, hand held shower head with on/off lever, and shower holder attachment is essential for maintaining a clean and functional bathroom. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your bathroom accessories remain in good working condition and free from harmful bacteria and build-up. Proper maintenance not only enhances the longevity of these items but also contributes to a healthier and more pleasant bathroom environment.