Featured Image: Tucson™ Skirted Bath

Your mother-in-law just texted she’s in the neighbourhood so she thought she’d swing by… in 5 minutes. You’re free, right? “Of course! See you soon!” you reply as you picture the disaster zone that is your bathroom where she’ll surely want to freshen up. Time to put down the phone and pick up your rubber glovers.

1. Tackle the toilet.

Get the toilet bowl cleaner working for the length of your cleaning session. Brush around the bowl and under the rim, allowing the solution to sit as long as possible. In a pinch, a couple of Alka-Seltzer tablets can fizz their way to a freshened toilet.

2. Clear the clutter.

Cleaning is a lost cause if your bathroom counter features seven hair products, a trail of bobby pins and a nearly depleted tub of toothpaste. Stash the non-essentials in a drawer and organize it later.

3. Grab the disinfecting wipes.

Using separate wipes or paper towels for each zone, take a pass at: the countertops and sink; the toilet seat, tank, handle and base; and the mirrors.

4. Throw her off the scent.

Open a window to clear the air of the telltale cleaning smell. Light a candle or spritz an air-freshening spray. If you’re really feeling fancy, dab an essential oil inside the toilet paper roll.

5. Tidy the towels.

Refold bath towels and hang a fresh hand towel. Shake rugs and bathmats for the “Of course, I just vacuumed,” look. She’ll have no reason to suspect the bathroom ever looks any different.