It’s February – here in the Shenandoah Valley we are happily passed the mid-way point for Winter – eagerly looking forward to all things Spring! Fresh, clean air – new growth, and expanding the fun to the out of doors.
The urge to hibernate is just about over, well, maybe just a little longer with your special Valentine. So, this month’s tips and recommendations are all about getting and keeping the love shack’s adjoining ensuite in absolutely lovely shape…
When you clean your master bath this month take a few extra steps and keep it phresh…
Medicine Cabinets – dispose of any old/expired prescriptions and over the counter meds. Likewise skin care and make-up should not kept forever: lipstick – up to 1 year, eyeshadow/blush – up to 2 years, mascara – 3 months, foundation – up to 1 year, eyeliner – up to 2 years…
Shower Curtains – if you are not ready to replace/update your curtains altogether, consider a soak in in soapy bleach water to retard the mildew that wants to grow in our humid baths…
Showerhead – de-gunk and clean. Fill a plastic bag with CLR (Calcium, Lime, Rust) cleaner, or, a mix of white vinegar and water – use a rubberband to keep the showerhead submerged in the cleaning mixture for at least 1 hour (longer if minerals are evident). After soaking, remove the bag with the cleaning solution. If you have visible mineral deposits you may want to do a gentle scrub with a toothbrush – for excessive mineral build up you may need to disassemble and clean the filter per the manufacturers recommendations. Don’t forget to run the water for a moment or two to eliminate any solvent or loose mineral bits, and to polish the fixture. Now you are good to go!
Grout/Caulk – mold and mildew occur when moisture persists. Grout and caulk often show signs of these first – this time of year it’s a good idea to make sure that there is good ventilation until all surfaces are dry; if you find mold or mildew clean immediately before there is more… keep an eye out for decay or areas which may allow leaks…
Linens – to keep everything smelling fresher longer, insert a dryer sheet in between a few of the stored sheets and towels… it’s a good time of year to consider removing older items from your inventory altogether…
Bathroom Vent – vacuum with small brush attachment…
Declutter – get rid of excess from counters, tub/shower, drawers and closets…
Now that everything is clean and fresh – consider adding a few romantic, spa-like touches…
Plants & flowers — it is after all nearly Valentine’s day!
Scents — a few drops of your favorite essential oil in the shower will envelope you with a delicious scent as the steam rises, or, add 3-6 drops of your favs to the bath water and soak it all in…
Bespoke the bath – step up the bath experience with salts, scrubs, bubble bath or bath bomb (get diy recipe here) – don’t forget lavish oils and lotions for after the bath…
Be a little Moody – add little personal details – a picture of just you two, scented candles, chocolates, music, luxurious robes/slippers, and bubbly. Unexpected gifts and gestures can be extremely romantic… a hand-written note, poem, or jewelry, the extra thought and effort speaks volumes…