Home Care Challenge: Flush the Drains & Freshen the Fans
The Bathroom Refresh You Didn’t Know You Needed
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I’m always amazed at how two kids from the same parents, growing up in the same home, can be so different.
When we potty trained our first, we went with the three-day, no-underwear method when he was just over two and a half. It worked like a charm. With our second, however, we were met with total resistance. So we hit pause, waited a few months, and recently tried again now that he’s almost three. This time? Night and day difference.
We switched up the approach — underwear at home, pull-ups at school — and had a very successful week. But with all the time I’ve been spending in the bathroom lately, it hit me: it was time to flush the drains and clean our exhaust fans.
You might be wondering — if I already cleaned them earlier this year (which, for the record, is more than I did in years past), do I really need to clean them again?
Yes, you do. Here’s why.
Why Drains and Exhaust Fans Matter
Drains when they’re working well, you don’t even notice them. But if they get clogged or start to smell, it’s a whole different story. Regular cleaning helps prevent buildup, blockages, and unpleasant odors, plus, it keeps water flowing smoothly and reduces the risk of damage.
Exhaust fans, on the other hand, are essential for removing excess moisture, odors, and airborne particles. A clean fan means better ventilation, less mold risk, and a fresher space.
Both of these tasks can feel like “I’ll get to it later” chores, but they’re much easier than they seem. And by working them into your regular cleaning routine, you keep your home healthier and more comfortable for everyone.
Keeping the Drains Flowing
One of the easiest things you can do for your drains is a simple flush with boiling water every few weeks.
How to do it:
Boil ½ to 1 gallon of water.
Carefully pour half down the drain.
Wait a few minutes.
Pour the rest down the drain.
Pro tip: If you have a glass or porcelain sink, warm it up with hot tap water first to prevent cracking from the boiling water.
A few times a year, take it up a notch with the baking soda + vinegar method (bonus: it’s like a mini science experiment).
How to do it:
Pour ½ cup baking soda down the drain (a funnel or rolled paper helps).
Follow with ½ cup vinegar.
Cover the drain tightly with a wet rag or plug.
After 5 minutes, flush with hot water.
Covering the drain is key. It traps the fizzing reaction so it can break down the buildup more effectively.
Don’t Forget the “Forgotten” Drains
If you have sinks, bathtubs, or toilets that rarely get used, make it a habit to run water in them every few weeks.
Why? When water evaporates from the trap, it can lead to bad smells — and in some cases, leaks. We learned this the hard way when we had to call a plumber for our rarely used bathtub.
Running water for just a minute or two keeps the traps filled and prevents unpleasant surprises.
Cleaning Exhaust Fans
Bathroom exhaust fans work quietly in the background, but dust and grime can slow them down. Aim to clean them twice a year (more often if your bathroom gets a lot of use).
How to do it:
Turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
Remove the fan cover.
Wipe or brush away dust from the cover and fan blades.
Use a ladder or step stool for better reach.
Let everything dry completely before reattaching.
Bottom line: These are small, doable tasks that make a big impact on your home’s comfort and health. So whether you’re in the middle of potty training or just looking for a quick win, give your drains and exhaust fans a little TLC.
Happy cleaning!
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