Here is a long, thorough, and highly practical guide with the best bathroom cleaning tips you should know—organized so you can clean faster, deeper, and with less effort.
🚿 Bathroom Cleaning Tips You Should Know
Bathrooms get dirty fast because of moisture, soap scum, body oils, and bacteria—but the good news is that with the right order and tools, you can clean any bathroom quickly and effectively. Below is everything you need to know to keep yours sparkling.
1. Start With a Quick Declutter
Before cleaning, remove items so you’re not constantly moving things around.
Declutter these areas first:
- Sink countertop
- Bathroom shelves
- Bathtub edges
- Shower caddy
- Toilet tank top
- Floor
Place everything in a basket—this instantly makes the space more manageable.
2. Let Cleaners Sit (This Saves the MOST Time)
Bathroom surfaces often need time for cleaners to break down soap scum, limescale, and grime.
Spray these areas first:
- Shower walls
- Tub
- Sink
- Toilet bowl (use toilet bowl cleaner)
- Faucets
- Mirror (spray later so it doesn’t drip)
Let the cleaners sit 5–10 minutes while you clean other areas.
This single step can reduce your scrubbing time by half.
3. Clean the Shower and Bathtub
These are usually the toughest areas, so let’s tackle them effectively.
For Tiles & Walls:
- Spray a bathroom cleaner or a mix of vinegar + dish soap (works amazingly on soap scum)
- Use a scrubbing brush or non-scratch pad
- Rinse with hot water
- Wipe with a squeegee to prevent water spots
For the Tub:
- Sprinkle baking soda for extra scrubbing power
- Use a sponge to scrub soap rings
- Rinse well
For Glass Shower Doors:
- Use vinegar or lemon juice for water stains
- Squeegee after every shower to keep them clear
- For tough buildup, apply a paste of baking soda + peroxide
4. Clean the Sink and Faucet
Sinks collect toothpaste, soap residue, makeup, and water stains.
How to clean efficiently:
- Scrub using a bathroom cleaner or soft scrub
- Pay attention to the base of the faucet (lots of grime hides there)
- Use an old toothbrush for tight areas
- Wipe dry for a shiny finish
For clogged or slow drains:
Pour down:
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 cup vinegar
- Rinse with hot water after 10 minutes
5. Clean the Toilet Properly
Toilets need both inside and outside cleaning.
Inside the bowl:
- Apply toilet bowl cleaner under the rim
- Let sit 5–10 minutes
- Scrub thoroughly with the toilet brush
- Flush
Outside the toilet:
Wipe these areas:
- Seat
- Lid
- Base
- Flush handle
- Sides of the toilet
Use disinfectant wipes or spray.
6. Wipe Mirrors and Glass
Streak-free mirrors instantly make bathrooms look cleaner.
Best method:
- Spray glass cleaner or vinegar solution
- Use a microfiber cloth
- Wipe in an “S” motion from top to bottom
Avoid using paper towels—they streak and shed lint.
7. Mop or Clean the Floor Last
Always clean the bathroom floor after everything else.
Fast floor clean:
- Sweep or vacuum loose hair and dust
- Mop with hot water and cleaner
- Don’t forget behind the toilet and under the sink
8. Wash or Replace Towels and Bathmats
These often hold moisture and odors.
Tips:
- Wash bath towels every 3–4 uses
- Wash bathmats weekly
- Use hot water to remove bacteria
- Make sure mats dry completely between washes
9. Keep Air Fresh and Reduce Moisture
Moisture is the #1 cause of mildew.
Prevention tips:
- Run the exhaust fan during and after showers
- Leave the door open for ventilation
- Use a dehumidifier if necessary
- Wipe down wet surfaces after showering
- Keep a squeegee in the shower
10. Quick Daily Habits to Keep It Clean
These take less than a minute each but make a BIG difference.
Daily habits:
- Wipe sink after brushing teeth
- Squeegee shower walls
- Swish toilet brush in bowl with cleaner
- Hang towels properly to dry
- Put items back immediately
These small steps prevent big messes later.
11. Natural DIY Cleaning Solutions
If you prefer gentle, non-toxic cleaners, try these:
Glass & Mirror Cleaner
- 1 part vinegar
- 1 part water
- Optional: a few drops of essential oil
Soap Scum Remover
- 1 cup vinegar (heated slightly)
- 1 tbsp dish soap
Toilet Freshener
- Baking soda + a few drops of tea tree oil sprinkled into bowl
Grout Cleaner
- Baking soda + hydrogen peroxide paste
12. Tools That Make Bathroom Cleaning Easier
A few smart tools save LOTS of time:
- Microfiber cloths
- Scrub brush with a long handle
- Magic erasers (excellent for soap scum)
- Squeegee
- Old toothbrushes for corners
- Power scrubber (optional but amazing)
