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Bathroom Cleaning This DIY Basic provides tips on keeping your bathroom germ-free.

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This DIY Basic provides tips on keeping your bathroom germ-free. Figure A Figure B Figure C  WINDOWS MEDIA VIDEO Watch the Video

If you have a bathroom, then you have germs. The moisture, warmth and constant use make the bathroom a fertile breeding ground for mold, mildew and bacteria. Well, don't fret because keeping germs at bay is possible by following just a few simple tips:

• When it's time to clean, start with areas that contain the least amount of germs and work toward the more contaminated areas that usually means working toward the toilet (figure A).

  Note: Germs can double in every 20 minutes!

• In the tub and shower, use a cleaner specifically designed to remove mold, mildew and soap scum. Try a brush with strong, yet non-abrasive, bristles (figure B) for deep cleaning grout and caulk -- and rinse the area thoroughly after cleaning.

  Note: Wear rubber gloves when cleaning and rinse well after each use.

• To stay one step ahead of mildew, try this quick cleaning tip -- wipe down the tub or shower with a towel after each use. Doing this will prevent mildew from forming. Also remember to clean doorknobs, handles and underneath cabinets because these are areas where water drips and hands touch.

• When cleaning out cabinets, dispose of products that have expired and consider storing medicines and vitamins in the kitchen as moisture and heat from the bathroom could ruin them.

• When it comes to linens, replace towels weekly and wash, along with rugs and your shower curtain, in hot water.

• Once you've finished cleaning, disinfect sponges and brushes and allow them to dry thoroughly (figure C). Otherwise you'll be spreading more bacteria the next time you clean.

• Finally, keep moisture under control by installing a quality ventilation fan. Some come equipped with a moisture meter, which turns the fan on automatically when humidity reaches a certain level.

• Keeping a bathroom germ-free is a never-ending battle, but with a good plan and a few simple tips, you can at least make it a bit more manageable.