How often you really need to clean your bathroom and toilet, according to a microbiologist

Don't wipe sprays straight away if they need time to work.

The bathroom is one of the most hated rooms in the house to clean, but given how frequently we use it and what we use it for, cleaning it is a necessity.

But how often and thoroughly do we actually need to clean the bathroom to get rid of germs?

To find out, 9Honey Living spoke to Emma Harding, molecular virology researcher and PhD candidate at the University of New South Wales.

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According to Harding, how often surfaces in the bathroom need to be cleaned depends on how frequently an area is used and whether someone in the house is unwell.

"If someone has been sick recently, the bathroom should be cleaned thoroughly when they have recovered to prevent other people from getting sick, otherwise once a week is a good rule. Floors will generally need cleaning less than high-touch surfaces like taps and showers," she said.

"It is a good idea to clean the bathtub every time before use, especially if it is not used very often. Microbes can settle in the bath between uses, and a rinse with soapy water before running the bath is a quick way to make sure it is clean enough for bathing."

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So a weekly clean for the bathroom is generally fine, and Harding said for the most part good old soapy water – which can be achieved with dishwashing detergent – is enough to clean the space.

She recommends using a product with disinfectant monthly or when surfaces start looking a little gross.

"Soapy water is very effective at killing a wide range of microbes, so your regular cleaning can be done with that. Once a month or if you notice a buildup of scum, coloured residue or slimy surfaces you should use a stronger cleaning agent that disinfects as well," Harding said.

And if you have a toilet in the bathroom want to keep the spread of germs to a minimum, there is one thing you should get into the habit of.

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"The bathroom is one of the dirtiest places in the house, especially if it has the toilet in the same room. As a general rule, always flush with the lid down to prevent particles from escaping the toilet bowl and settling elsewhere."

When it comes to keeping the bathroom or any space in the house free of harmful germs, Harding said maintenance is key.

"If you keep up regular hygiene practices, often microbes cannot grow to levels where disinfection is needed regularly. Letting washing fully dry outside (especially in the sun under UV), regular vacuuming and wiping kitchen benches are all good practices that help prevent the buildup of harmful microbes in the house," she said.

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