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How to Get Rid of Smell in Bathroom: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate bathroom odors easily with this step-by-step guide. Discover how E-Cloth makes odor removal simple and effective.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Bathroom

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- White vinegar
- All-purpose cleaner
- Trash bag
- Clean, dry towels

Step 1: Clear Out Clutter and Sources of Odor

Dump any trash, used tissues, and old toiletries that can harbor smell.
Replace damp towels and mats with clean, dry ones.

Step 2: Air Out the Bathroom

Open windows or the bathroom door to allow fresh air in and let stale air out.
If available, let the fan run for a while to speed up the air exchange.

Step 3: Tackle the Drains

Pour a mix of water and white vinegar down the drains to neutralize odor-causing residue.
Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Step 4: Wipe Down Hard Surfaces

Wipe the sink, toilet, and countertops with an all-purpose cleaner to remove any lingering smells.
Focus on areas that often collect moisture, as they are common odor hotspots.

Step 5: Let Everything Dry Completely

Ensure all wet areas are thoroughly dried to prevent mold and mildew from developing.
Leave the bathroom door or window open a bit longer if necessary to speed up the drying process.

Safety Precautions

Wear gloves when handling trash, cleaning drains, or using cleaning products to protect your skin from bacteria and chemicals.
Ensure good ventilation by keeping windows or doors open, especially when using vinegar or any cleaning agents, to avoid inhaling fumes.
Never mix cleaning chemicals (like bleach and vinegar), as this can create dangerous gases.
Use non-slip footwear to prevent slips on wet floors during and after cleaning.
Store cleaning products safely out of reach of children and pets after use.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Bathroom: Extra Tips

Maximize Ventilation

Open windows during and after a shower to let fresh air circulate.
Use an exhaust fan to remove humid air and prevent odor buildup.
If possible, install additional vents to enhance airflow.

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Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine

Wipe down surfaces with a gentle cleaner at least once a week.
Scrub the toilet, sink, and floor regularly to remove buildup and germs.
Don’t forget to clean corners and fixtures where dust and grime accumulate.

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Use Natural Deodorizers

Sprinkle baking soda in the drain; let it sit before flushing to neutralize odors.
Mix water with white vinegar in a spray bottle to refresh surfaces and eliminate bacteria.
Add a few drops of essential oil to the cleaning solution for a pleasant scent.

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Prevent Moisture and Mildew

Fix any leaks promptly to avoid damp, musty smells.
Use a dehumidifier or moisture absorbers to maintain low humidity.
Regularly clean and inspect shower curtains and bathroom mats to keep mildew at bay.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Bathroom

Excessive Cleaning Product Usage

Using too much cleaning solution can leave sticky residues and sometimes damage surfaces.
Follow the instructions on the label and use only as much as needed for effective cleaning.
Overuse not only wastes money but may require extra rinsing, making the process longer.

Cleaning in the Wrong Order

Start from the top (e.g., dusting high shelves) and work your way down to avoid re-soiling cleaned areas.
Clean surfaces methodically to prevent accidental cross-contamination or repeated cleaning of the same spot.
Incorrect sequencing can lead to extra work and potential damage by moving dust and debris around.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Waiting too long between cleaning sessions makes grime build up harder to remove.
A quick weekly clean-up can prevent the need for deep cleaning sessions that require more time and effort.
Regular maintenance keeps your spaces consistently fresh and minimizes stress when unexpected guests drop by.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Bathroom

Daily Touch-Ups

Wipe down surfaces like the sink, mirror, and high-touch areas after use. This prevents moisture and soap scum from building up and contributing to odors.
Quickly dry any wet spots to reduce the risk of mildew—a major culprit in bathroom smells.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

Perform a more thorough cleaning once a week. Scrub the toilet bowl, shower, and floor to eliminate lingering bacteria and buildup that can emit unpleasant odors.
Clean grout lines and any corners where products and debris tend to hide, as these areas are hotspots for mold and mildew.

Why This Frequency Works

Daily touch-ups address immediate moisture and residue, stopping smells before they have a chance to set in.
Weekly deep cleaning ensures that any deeper, hidden build-up is removed, maintaining overall hygiene and a fresher smell in the long run.
This balanced approach prevents the need for occasional, overwhelming cleaning marathons and keeps your bathroom consistently odor-free.

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