Bathroom Cleaning Routine

Bathrooms need consistent attention but don't require hours of scrubbing if you maintain them properly. The key is preventing buildup through daily habits, with deeper cleaning once a week.

Daily Habits (2 minutes)

These small habits prevent the need for intensive cleaning:

• Squeegee shower walls: After each shower, spend 30 seconds with a squeegee. This prevents 90% of soap scum buildup.
• Wipe sink after use: A quick wipe keeps toothpaste and soap from building up.
• Hang towels properly: Spread them out to dry completely—prevents musty smells.
• Close toilet lid before flushing: Reduces aerosol spread.

Weekly Deep Clean (15-20 minutes)

Once a week, give the bathroom a thorough cleaning. This is the order that works best:

1. Toilet (5 minutes)

• Squirt toilet bowl cleaner under rim
• Let sit while you clean other areas
• Scrub bowl with brush
• Wipe exterior with disinfectant (seat, lid, base)
• Wipe handle and surrounding area

2. Sink and Counter (3 minutes)

• Spray with all-purpose cleaner
• Scrub sink basin
• Clean faucet and handles
• Wipe counter
• Polish mirror

3. Shower/Tub (5-7 minutes)

• Spray surfaces with bathroom cleaner
• Let sit 2-3 minutes
• Scrub walls, tub, and fixtures
• Pay attention to grout lines
• Rinse thoroughly
• Clean shower door or curtain

4. Floor (3 minutes)

• Shake out bath mat
• Sweep or vacuum floor
• Mop or wipe with damp cloth
• Pay attention to base of toilet

5. Finishing Touches

• Replace hand towels
• Refill soap dispenser if needed
• Empty trash
• Check toilet paper supply

Monthly Tasks

• Wash bath mat: Machine wash and dry completely
• Clean exhaust fan: Remove cover and clean dust
• Wash shower curtain: Machine wash or replace liner
• Deep clean grout: Use grout cleaner or baking soda paste
• Clean inside cabinets: Wipe shelves, organize products
• Check under sink: Look for leaks, clean drips

Common Problem Areas

Soap Scum

That white/gray film on shower surfaces is soap scum—a combination of soap, minerals, and body oils. Prevention is easier than removal:

• Squeegee after every shower
• Use liquid body wash instead of bar soap (less residue)
• Spray daily shower cleaner after use
• For existing buildup: use specialized soap scum remover or vinegar solution

Mold and Mildew

Bathrooms are prone to mold due to moisture. Prevention:

• Run exhaust fan during and 15+ minutes after showers
• Keep bathroom well-ventilated
• Squeegee and dry surfaces
• Fix any leaks promptly

Hard Water Stains

White mineral deposits from hard water. Address with:

• Vinegar solution (spray, let sit, scrub)
• Commercial lime scale remover
• Regular wiping prevents buildup