Or, when someone calls to the house that you’re not expecting and says “do you mind if I just use your loo?” … Panic sets in as you try to remember what state it’s in from last night’s bath time or after this morning's dash of teeth brushing, shaving, and flushing (hopefully flushing!)

But fear not, as these simple tricks will get this room that sees so much action gleaming in 10 minutes or less.

Grab yourself a bag
Hang the plastic bag on the doorknob or back of the door. It’s a perfect quick way to gather stuff for the outside bin and makes it easy for you to get going.

Then, get ready to flush
Grab some bleach. Pour a capful or two into the toilet bowl. With the toilet bush, clean around the sides and under the rim and leave it for five minutes.

Let it shine
Fill a spray bottle with 50% water and 50% white vinegar. Spray the mixed solution onto paper towels and wipe away soap drips and toothpaste spatters from the taps, mirrors, sink and any surfaces. If you have time, this is great to life off dirt like spotty shower doors.

Using the same vinegar paper, run it across the back of the toilet tank, and under, over and around the toilet seat. Don’t forget to flush the bleach that's been sitting in the bowl. Now drop the paper into your doorknob bag, and move on.

Towel time
If the towels from the morning showers are still wet, fret not. Just pop them on the towel rail, straighten them and leave them to dry. But put out a fresh hand towel. That’s the only ones short-term guests will use anyway. Leave the others on the bar; just straighten them.

Exit
Now it's time for the floor. Shake out your rug or bath mat to fluff it up so it looks recently hoovered. Next, with a damp paper towel, wipe the corners of the room, where most of the hair and dust collects. Finally, take the plastic bag with you when you leave and dispose of it!