How to Deep Clean a Bathroom (and Feel Great About It!)

Cleaning the bathroom may not be the most glamorous chore, but there’s something incredibly satisfying about stepping into a spotless, fresh-smelling space. With a little determination and the right plan, you can tackle even the toughest grime. Here's a step-by-step guide to deep cleaning your bathroom so it sparkles like new.

What You’ll Need

Before you roll up your sleeves, gather the following supplies to make your job easier:

All-purpose cleaner
Disinfectant spray or wipes
Bathroom-specific cleaner (for tubs, tile, and grout)
White vinegar
Baking soda
Toilet cleaner (and a toilet brush)
Glass cleaner
Microfiber cloths
Scrub brushes (a small one for grout is helpful)
Sponge
Rubber gloves
Bucket
Mop (or steam cleaner)
Old toothbrush (for those hard-to-reach crevices)

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to tackle the bathroom, one area at a time.

Step 1: Clear the Space

Start by removing everything from the bathroom. Take out towels, rugs, bins, and all your toiletries. Place them in another room so you can work with a blank canvas. If your shower curtain is washable, throw it in the laundry, along with your rugs and any fabric items.

Step 2: Dust and Vacuum

Before introducing any cleaners, use a duster or microfiber cloth to remove dust from light fixtures, vents, and shelves. Follow up by vacuuming the floor and any corners where dust bunnies and hair tend to collect.

Step 3: Tackle the Shower and Tub

The shower and tub can be one of the grimiest spots in the bathroom, so it’s a good idea to treat it first. Spray it down with a bathroom cleaner or a homemade solution (you can mix white vinegar and dish soap in equal parts). Allow the cleaner to sit for about 15 minutes to loosen soap scum and stains.

While you’re waiting, focus on the showerhead. If it’s clogged, unscrew it and soak it in a bowl of vinegar for 30 minutes, then scrub with a toothbrush to clear debris.

After 15 minutes or so, scrub all surfaces of the shower and tub with a sponge or brush, paying special attention to tile grout. For stubborn grout stains, make a paste from baking soda and water, apply it to the grout, and scrub with a toothbrush. Rinse everything thoroughly when done.

Step 4: Clean the Toilet

The toilet is arguably everyone’s least-favorite task, but it’s not as bad as it seems. Pour toilet cleaner into the bowl and use a toilet brush to scrub the interior. Be sure to get under the rim, where grime can build up. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes before flushing.

While the bowl soaks, wipe down the exterior of the toilet with disinfectant spray or wipes. Don’t forget to clean the tank, handle, base, and the seat hinges where dirt and germs lurk.

Step 5: Scrub the Sink and Countertops

Next, spray your sink and countertops with a bathroom cleaner or an all-purpose cleaner. If you’re dealing with a clogged or slow-draining sink, pour about half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain and wait 10-15 minutes before rinsing with hot water.

For any stubborn gunk around the faucet, use your trusty toothbrush. Wipe everything down with a damp cloth and polish the faucet with a dry microfiber towel to make it shine.

Step 6: Wipe the Mirrors

Clean your mirrors with a dedicated glass cleaner or a simple solution of water and vinegar. Spray the cleaner onto the glass, then wipe it off with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a streak-free finish.

Step 7: Floors and Baseboards

Save the floors for last to capture any debris from your earlier cleaning efforts. Start by cleaning the baseboards with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge. Then, mop the floor with hot, soapy water or a disinfectant solution. If you have grout lines in the flooring, use a brush and baking soda paste to scrub away stains.

Additional Tips for Hard-to-Reach Areas

Behind the toilet: Use a narrow brush or sponge to reach between the toilet and the wall.
Under the sink: Empty out the cabinet and wipe down all surfaces. Use this chance to declutter any old or unused products.
Corners and crevices: An old toothbrush is perfect for scrubbing tight spaces where regular brushes can’t reach.

Step 8: Finish with Fresh Touches

Once everything is clean and dry, put back your freshly laundered towels, rugs, and shower curtains. Restock your toiletries and maybe even add a small plant or scented candle to complete the vibe.

Final Thoughts

Deep cleaning the bathroom isn’t the most fun chore, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it so much easier. The reward? A gleaming, fresh-smelling bathroom that you’ll actually enjoy spending time in. Plus, it’ll be a breeze to maintain once it’s deep cleaned. You’ve got this!