Did you know World Cleanup Day traces its origins to Estonia in 2008, when 50,000 volunteers united to clean the entire country in just five hours? Today, it's a global movement—declared officially by the United Nations and involving millions across 190+ countries every September 20th, all working toward a cleaner, healthier planet.
This year, why not extend the spirit of cleanup to your personal space? Start with your bathroom—it’s a place we use and overlook daily. Here are some deep-clean bathroom habits and tips to help you kick it off!
1. Declutter—Because Anything Makes Anything Else Dirty
Old bottles, expired lotions, half-used loofahs—they take up space and harbor grime. Declutter both for beauty and hygiene. For instance, expired skincare or makeup can lead to redness, breakouts, and even bacterial or fungal infections due to contamination. Experts warn that preservatives break down over time, leaving products prone to microbial growth and skin irritation. So toss any moisturizer that’s changed texture or fragrance, and don’t let that 5‑year‑old bronzer stick around just “in case.”
2. Go Plastic-Free with Your Cleaning Tools
Skip disposable sponges and plastic scrubbers. Try using refillable glass spray bottles with vinegar and water (plus a few drops of essential oil for scent), bamboo brushes, or old cotton cloths for scrubbing. These simple swaps cut plastic waste and get the job done.
3. Target Mold-Prone Hotspots with Smarts
Showers and grout lines are breeding grounds for mold. Be mindful about cleaners that may damage tile—always test in small areas first. Good ventilation also helps prevent mold growth in the first place.
This one’s a classic, with results that rival harsh cleaners:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar until it becomes a creamy paste.
- Apply to grout, shower tiles, or soap scum.
- Allow to sit for 10 minutes, then scrub gently and rinse.
The fizzing action helps break down buildup, naturally—and odor‑free.
Or create an all-purpose cleaner with castile soap that’s eco-friendly and multi-surface:
- 1 cup water + 1 tbsp Castile soap + a splash of vinegar in a spray bottle.
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Shake and use across sinks, counters, even exterior of shower doors.
No harsh chemicals—just clean, green living.
4. Fight Water Spots with a Daily Squeegee
Here’s a trick common in spas that you can do at home: keep a squeegee in your shower, and give walls a quick swipe after each use. It’s a 30-second habit that cuts down buildup dramatically. No magic required.
5. Simplify Often Overlooked Areas
Instead of hanging soft bath mats that trap moisture and bacteria, swap in quick-dry or bamboo alternatives. Store toiletries out of the open—cluttered surfaces collect dust and scum. Replace heavy shower curtains every six months with washable, mildew-resistant ones to make upkeep easier. Looking to get rid of limescale buildup? Sprinkle salt over a halved lemon and scrub faucets gently. The acidity cuts minerals; the salt provides gentle abrasion. Rinse, wipe, and watch your fixtures shine.
A Little Handso Love
Looking to declutter your shower routine while cutting down plastic waste? Meet Handso—your all-in-one solution for shower essentials. Say goodbye to juggling multiple bottles and clingy loofahs, and hello to simple, sustainable showering.
World Cleanup Day is all about taking meaningful action—whether you're clearing litter from beaches or refreshing your own bathroom space. It’s a great moment to bring intentional, planet-positive practices right into your home—especially where we clean up behind ourselves most often.
Sources:
Do Skin-Care Products Expire? When and Why You Should Throw Out Certain Formulas
35 Bathroom Cleaning Hacks That Really Work, According to Pros
5 things professional cleaners always remove from a bathroom to make it easier to clean
