7 Pro Tips on How to Clean Bathroom Properly

Let’s face it—cleaning the bathroom isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling a million things, a tenant trying to get your deposit back, or a landlord preparing for viewings, a grimy bathroom can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. With a few pro tips (and the right routine), you can turn your bathroom from “ugh” to “ahh” in under an hour. In this post, I’ll share 7 expert-approved ways to clean your bathroom efficiently—without stress, harsh chemicals, or hours of scrubbing. Let’s make your space shine again!

1. Start with Decluttering and Dry Dusting

Before grabbing the sprays and scrubs, take a moment to declutter the space. Remove shampoo bottles, toothbrushes, rugs, bins—everything. Then, use a dry microfiber cloth or a duster to wipe down surfaces. This helps you work more efficiently once cleaning begins and prevents wet dust from clinging to surfaces. Decluttering also helps identify neglected areas, such as the tops of cabinets and window sills, which often collect hidden dust and hair.

2. Apply Cleaning Products and Let Them Sit

One of the biggest mistakes people make is spraying and scrubbing immediately. Instead, apply toilet bowl cleaner, limescale remover, or an all-purpose spray to sinks, tubs, and tiles, and let it sit for at least 5–10 minutes. This allows the product to break down grime and bacteria, reducing the need for hard scrubbing. For effective limescale removal, check out tips from Good Housekeeping UK.

Use this time to gather your tools—scrub brushes, gloves, grout cleaner, and cloths. Wearing gloves not only protects your hands from harsh chemicals but also helps maintain hygiene, especially when cleaning areas like the toilet and bin lids.

3. Tackle the Toilet Like a Pro

Toilets require special attention. Start by adding toilet cleaner under the rim and into the bowl. Use a dedicated toilet brush to scrub, ensuring you reach under the rim and deep into the bend. Wipe the exterior, handle, and seat with antibacterial wipes or disinfectant spray. For a natural alternative, baking soda and white vinegar work wonders.

Don’t forget the often-missed spots like behind the toilet, the base, and the flush button. These areas can harbour bacteria, especially in shared or rented homes. Consider a final disinfectant spray to eliminate germs—see NHS guidelines on stopping the spread of germs.

4. Focus on Grout and Tiles

Bathroom grout can quickly collect mould and mildew. Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, then use an old toothbrush to scrub the grout lines. For tougher stains, a steam cleaner or a bleach-based cleaner (used sparingly) can restore whiteness. Rinse tiles thoroughly with warm water after cleaning.

Grout care is vital for bathroom longevity. Mould not only looks bad but can also cause allergies. After scrubbing, open windows and use an extractor fan to reduce moisture buildup. For bathroom renovation tips, Ideal Home UK offers inspiration.

5. Clean Mirrors and Glass Without Streaks

Skip the paper towels—they often leave fibres behind. Instead, use a microfibre cloth with glass cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water. Wipe in a circular motion or from top to bottom. To avoid foggy mirrors, a small dab of shaving cream buffed into the glass can act as a temporary anti-fog treatment.

Windows, shower doors, and decorative glass should be treated similarly. Cleaning them last prevents recontamination from splashback during tile or basin cleaning. For extra shine, polish with a dry cloth and ensure no streaks remain, especially in natural daylight.

6. Scrub Taps and Fixtures to Shine

Bathroom taps and showerheads can gather limescale quickly, especially in hard water areas like Hertfordshire. Soak a cloth in white vinegar and wrap it around the fixture for 15–20 minutes. Then scrub gently with an old toothbrush or sponge. Rinse and buff dry with a dry towel to restore the shine.

Make sure to inspect joints and seams—these areas collect water deposits and can stain chrome finishes. A regular cleaning habit prevents corrosion and keeps the fixtures hygienic for daily use.

7. Don’t Forget Floors and Finishing Touches

Vacuum or sweep the bathroom floor to remove hair and dust, then mop with a disinfectant solution. Don’t forget to clean behind the toilet and under cabinets. Finish by replacing fresh towels, taking out the rubbish, and spraying an eco-friendly air freshener. Your bathroom should now look, feel, and smell fresh!

Consider adding a plant, changing hand soap, or adding storage baskets to keep clutter at bay. Little details make the space more enjoyable and easier to maintain throughout the week. For eco-cleaning ideas, see Friends of the Earth: Natural Cleaning Tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my bathroom?

Ideally, a quick clean should be done weekly, with a deeper clean every 2–4 weeks depending on usage.

What’s the best natural cleaner for bathrooms?

Baking soda and vinegar are effective for toilets, drains, and tiles. Lemon juice is great for removing limescale and adding freshness.

Is bleach safe for bathroom cleaning?

Bleach can be effective for disinfecting, but it should be used in well-ventilated areas and never mixed with other products. Use sparingly and follow instructions.

How do professionals clean bathrooms so quickly?

They follow a set routine: declutter, spray, soak, scrub, rinse, and shine—using efficient tools and effective products. They also don’t skip the small spots like grout and behind the toilet.

Can I hire someone to clean just the bathroom?

Absolutely. Many domestic cleaning services, like Glohus Cleaning Hertfordshire, offer flexible options including bathroom-only cleaning.

Book a Local Bathroom Cleaning Expert

Ready for a sparkling bathroom without the stress? Glohus offers professional domestic cleaning services tailored to your schedule. Whether you're a busy homeowner or preparing for guests, our vetted team is here to help. Book your bathroom clean today!

External References:
- NHS: Preventing Germs
- Good Housekeeping UK: Bathroom Cleaning Guide
- Friends of the Earth: Natural Cleaning Tips
- Ideal Home UK: Bathroom Inspiration