Deep Cleaning Your Bathroom: A Step-By-Step Guide

Keeping your bathroom clean should be part of your regular housekeeping routine. But every so often, it’s a good idea to set aside time for a deep clean. A sparkling clean bathroom not only looks great but helps prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and bacteria.

In this article, you’ll learn how to thoroughly clean every part of your bathroom. We’ll tackle limescale and soap scum, scrub the tub and shower, disinfect surfaces, and more. With the right products and techniques, you can get your bathroom looking like new again. Let’s get started!

Assess and Declutter

Before diving into cleaning, take a few minutes to survey the bathroom. Make a note of problem areas with excessive dirt, grime, or buildup, especially focusing on how to clean porcelain tile if that’s part of your bathroom. Check under the sink and declutter items you don’t use often. Remove everything from the shower and tub so you can access all surfaces. Decluttering first will make cleaning much easier, and it will also simplify the process of addressing specific tasks like cleaning porcelain tiles.

Deep Clean the Sink and Countertops

Deep Clean the Sink and Countertops

The sink area tends to collect toothpaste, soap scum, hair products, and more. Start by removing everything from the countertops and sink. Mix a multi-surface cleaner with warm water in a spray bottle. Spray down the sink, faucet, handles, and countertop surfaces. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to penetrate the grime. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to scrub away any sticky residue or buildup. For stubborn spots, let the cleaner soak in for longer. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.

Next, polish chrome fixtures like the faucet and handles using a dry microfiber cloth. Check for any limescale deposits and remove them with white vinegar. Spray vinegar and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Disinfect the Toilet Bowl and Surfaces

Toilets tend to be one of the dirtiest spots in the bathroom. Give the bowl a thorough scrubbing with a toilet bowl cleaner and toilet brush. Let the cleaner sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing to allow it to disinfect and break down deposits. Clean all exterior toilet surfaces with a multipurpose bathroom cleaner and microfiber cloth. Pay close attention to the handles, the tank, the seat, and the lid.

For optimal disinfection, use disinfectant wipes on handles and frequently touched surfaces. Allow them to dry completely. This will kill off any bacteria and viruses lurking in the bathroom.

Scrub the Tub, Shower Walls, and Floor

Deep Clean the Sink and Countertops

Tubs, showers, and the shower floor tend to accumulate stubborn soap scum, mildew, and grime. Spray down all surfaces with a foam bathroom cleaner or a mix of half vinegar and half dish soap. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing with a soft-bristle brush. Use an old toothbrush to scrub tough stains in crevices and around the tub drain.

Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a disinfectant spray cleaner to kill germs. Wipe down the shower walls, doors, and floor with a squeegee to prevent water spots.

Clean and Disinfect Accessories

Don’t forget about all the accessories and fixtures in your bathroom during your deep clean. Remove soap dishes, shelves, shower caddies, and shower curtains. Give them a thorough cleaning in warm, soapy water. Use disinfectant wipes on surfaces that touch your hands frequently, like doorknobs and light switches.

Clean mirrors and windows using glass cleaner and a dry microfiber towel until streak-free. Disinfect wastebaskets and replace liners. Remember to dust curtain rods, pictures, and baseboards too.

Check for Mold and Mildew

Check for Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew tend to grow in damp bathroom environments. Check along the floors, in the corners of the shower, and around the sink for any signs of mold or mildew. Remove it right away before it has a chance to spread. Make a cleaning paste with baking soda and water and scrub mold-prone areas. Spray vinegar and let it sit to help kill mold and mildew.

Always properly ventilate and wipe down surfaces after bathing to discourage mold growth. Use a squeegee on shower doors to prevent water from pooling.

Keep it Clean

Regularly cleaning your bathroom prevents dirt and grime from building up and makes deep cleans faster. Spot clean surfaces when you notice smudges or soap scum building up. Squeeze the shower after each use. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, handles, and light switches regularly.

By keeping up with minor cleaning tasks, you can maintain a fresh, hygienic bathroom all the time. But set aside time for a thorough deep clean every month or two to get a sparkling clean bathroom from top to bottom.

Conclusion

Deep cleaning your bathroom may take a bit of time and elbow grease. But the results are well worth it. Following these steps will make your bathroom look—and smell—fresh and clean. Be sure to use the right tools and products for each surface and problem area. Maintain your clean bathroom by keeping up with daily and weekly cleaning tasks. A clean bathroom improves your hygiene, health, and quality of life at home.