Creating a pleasant-smelling powder room involves more than just masking odors. Bad smells can often occur in these spaces so it is important to also know what you should always do to keep your powder room smelling fresh.
Having a method for how, when, and why you do certain chores is the key to keeping your powder room and home smelling nice. Implementing these habits will ensure your powder room remains a refreshing and welcoming space for you and your guests.
Our experts have shared the five common mistakes that people with nice-smelling powder rooms always avoid, so you know how to avoid them also.
5 things people with nice-smelling powder rooms never do
Below are common mistakes people with nice-smelling powder rooms avoid so you can keep your powder room smelling fresh and odor-free.
1. Overlook ventilation
One key aspect that people with nice-smelling powder rooms never overlook is the ventilation system. According to Karina Toner, cleaning expert at Spekless Cleaning, proper ventilation helps eliminate odors and prevents the buildup of humidity, contributing to a consistently fresh atmosphere.
‘As a rule of thumb, I recommend installing efficient exhaust fans to enhance air circulation,’ says Karina Toner. I also never forget to open windows. They ensure airflow and let the room breathe to avoid musty odors.’
Ensure your powder room has a good-quality exhaust fan or an openable window to allow fresh air circulation. Opening windows after each use helps eliminate moisture and prevents unpleasant odors from lingering.
2. Leave damp towels or washcloths
If you want to ensure you have a nice-smelling powder room, avoid leaving damp towels and washcloths on the floor and surfaces. Damp towels can harbor mildew and create musty smells, so always hang them to dry immediately or wash them after use.
Angela Rubin, cleaning expert from Hellamaid, suggests you regularly change over hand towels and linens in the powder room. We like the Mathis Turkish cotton bath towels from Wayfair. Made from Turkish cotton, these towels and washcloths are easy to clean and will complement any decor and color scheme you have in your powder room.
3. Overuse air fresheners
When trying to maintain nice-smelling powder rooms, try not to overuse overly fragrant air fresheners. All fragrances fade in potency over time, but aerosols are typically the fastest to fade and probably rely on someone being there to dispense them.
Having a consistent means of keeping your bathroom smelling nice, like using a reed diffuser or type of potpourri, is a great way to ensure there is always some type of wonderful scent in the air. We’ve created a guide on how to make potpourri so you can make your own at home.
‘Introduce eucalyptus to your bathroom oasis,’ says cleaning specialist Shayne Jeramos. ‘Hang a small bundle of fresh eucalyptus leaves in your shower.’ As the steam rises, the fresh eucalyptus releases essential oils, not only contributing to a spa-like atmosphere but also combatting unwanted odors. Eucalyptus is a natural deodorizer with a subtle, refreshing scent.
4. Neglect regular cleaning
The toilet and sink are breeding grounds for bacteria that can cause foul odors, so people with nice-smelling powder rooms will never neglect regularly cleaning those areas. Just because your powder room may be used less often than your other bathrooms, that doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
‘Establish a consistent bathroom cleaning schedule,’ says cleaning expert Prerna Jain. ‘Focus on frequently touched surfaces such as countertops, faucet handles, and light switches using mild cleaners or disinfectants to prevent odor-causing bacteria buildup.’
Going too long without cleaning the toilet can lead to the buildup of harmful bacteria and germs, potentially causing health hazards and unpleasant odors. Neglecting toilet cleaning may result in mineral deposits, and hard-to-remove grime, making it more challenging and time-consuming to clean in the future.
5. Delay throwing out the trash can
People with nice-smelling powder rooms will never forget to empty the trash can. Used tissues and other waste can lead to an accumulation of odors that build up. Even just a few small pieces of trash can give off strong odors depending on what they are. When in doubt, empty the trash to ensure smells don't have a chance to permeate the trash bin and bathroom.
Consider using trash bags with odor-neutralizing properties from Amazon to contain any unpleasant smells which will make it kinder to your sense of smell when it comes to emptying.
FAQ
What is the most powerful odor eliminator?
According to an independent lab, the Zoop’s Odor Eliminator from Amazon tested as the best odor-elimination product on the market. This product is made from natural ingredients and is paraben-free, sulfate-free, SLS-free, and phthalates-free. Zoop’s odor eliminator product is safe to use around pets and children.
Maintaining a nice-smelling powder room involves a holistic approach, considering ventilation, natural odor absorbers, eco-friendly cleaning solutions, and thoughtfully chosen scented products. By avoiding common pitfalls and implementing these tips, homeowners can create a refreshing space that enhances their overall living experience.
