Bathroom Cleaning Checklist (Complete Guide)

Procrastinating on bathroom cleaning until guests are on their way or waiting until unsightly stains appear in the toilet bowl is a common experience. However, with our comprehensive bathroom cleaning checklist, deep cleaning can be manageable and stress-free. By consistently tackling smaller tasks, larger seasonal cleaning projects become much more achievable. We've organized the checklist into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks to help you clean efficiently and effectively, ensuring optimal results with minimal time investment.

Everyday Bathroom Tidying Tasks

Perform these simple daily chores from our bathroom upkeep checklist to maintain a clean and orderly washroom.

1. Clear Off Kitchen Surfaces

After finishing breakfast and that essential morning coffee, take a moment to put away any kitchen gadgets, appliances, and dishware you used. If counter space is limited, consider investing in some clever kitchen storage solutions. Taking a few minutes to tidy up will leave your kitchen looking neat and inviting, ready for the day ahead.

2. Fold and Put Away Clean Laundry

When your clothes are fresh out of the dryer, take a few minutes to fold them neatly and put them away in their designated drawers or closet space. This simple habit will keep your living area tidy, make it easier to find the clothes you need, and prevent wrinkles from setting in.

7-Day Restroom Tidying Tasks

Dedicate a small block of time every 7 days to tackle this restroom tidying task list. You'll keep all areas and appliances immaculate.

1. Clean and Disinfect Countertops

Remove all items from your bathroom countertops to ensure a thorough cleaning. Choose an appropriate cleaning solution based on your countertop material. For tile, create a paste using baking soda and water, and scrub the surface. For marble and granite, use warm water mixed with a mild soap. After cleaning, use a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture and prevent water spots.

2. Sanitize the Throne

Disinfecting the porcelain throne should be a regular part of your bathroom cleaning routine. As one of the most frequently used fixtures, it requires thorough attention. Begin by dusting the lid and tank exterior. Then, apply a disinfectant spray or foam, ideally bleach-based, to sanitize the toilet. Start with the outer surfaces and work your way to the bowl's rim.

For the toilet bowl's interior, consider using disposable scrubbers with integrated cleaners ($10, Target), or drop in a couple of antacid tablets and let them fizz before scrubbing with a toilet brush. Vodka can also be used as an alternative cleaning solution. After each cleaning, soak your toilet brush in a gallon of warm water mixed with a few capfuls of bleach for an hour to disinfect it. Remember to ventilate the area by opening windows or activating the exhaust fan when using bleach-based products.

3. Disinfect the Sink

Apply a disinfectant spray or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water to the sink basin, faucet handles, and drain. Allow the solution to sit for a minute or two, giving it time to penetrate and loosen any built-up grime. Then, using a folded cleaning wipe or a paper towel, carefully clean the areas around and behind the faucet handles, where dirt and debris often accumulate unnoticed. To complete the process, wipe down the faucet itself, as it is a common area for toothpaste splatters and other sink-related messes to collect.

4. Unclog the Drains

Monitor your sink and shower drains while running water each day. Slow drainage indicates a likely buildup of hair and debris that requires cleaning. First, remove the sink stopper and attempt to clear the drains using a straightened wire hanger. If unsuccessful, consider using a store-bought gel clog remover ($7, The Home Depot). However, read the product instructions carefully before use, as improper application can potentially damage your pipes.

5. Cleanse and Sanitize the Bathroom Floor

As the final step, thoroughly clean the bathroom floor. Since debris, hair, and residue from cleaning products have likely accumulated on the floor during the cleaning process, it's best to save this task for last. Begin by vacuuming to remove any loose particles, then proceed to mop the floor using a solution of warm water and mild detergent. For ceramic tile, vinyl, or linoleum surfaces, create a sanitizing solution by mixing 1 gallon of warm water with 1/2 cup of bleach. Always ensure proper ventilation when using bleach-based products for cleaning.

Monthly Kitchen Cleaning Checklist

Use this monthly kitchen cleaning checklist to perform a thorough clean of your kitchen approximately once per month. These tasks will help keep your kitchen in top shape.

1. Clean the Reflective Surfaces

Apply a specialized mirror cleaning solution ($5, HomeGoods) directly onto the reflective surface. Using a clean, microfiber cloth, wipe in a zigzag pattern from left to right until the mirror is free of smudges and restored to its initial luster. Refrain from using regular rags, as they may leave behind unwanted fibers and debris.

2. Sanitize the Shower and Bathtub

Prior to cleaning your shower or bathtub, remove all toiletry items such as soap, shampoo, and conditioner bottles. Apply a commercial cleaner containing ammonia, or mix equal parts vinegar and dish soap in a spray bottle to create a homemade solution. Starting at the top and working downward, apply the cleaning solution to the hardware, walls, and floor of your tub or shower. Allow the solution to sit for 5 to 10 minutes before scrubbing the surfaces with a brush or an electric scrubber. Rinse the area with a bucket of warm water or by using your showerhead, then use a squeegee or a microfiber cloth to dry each surface.

3. Clean the Shower Curtain and Liner Regularly

Bathrooms are prone to mold and mildew growth due to high humidity levels, and shower curtains and liners are particularly susceptible. To prevent the buildup of harmful microorganisms, it's essential to wash your shower curtain and liner in the washing machine at least once a month, adhering to the care instructions on the tag. While they're being cleaned, take the opportunity to wipe down the shower rod and rings to maintain a pristine bathroom environment.

4. Clean Bathroom Rugs and Floor Mats

Bathroom rugs and mats tend to accumulate hair, dirt, and debris from daily use. It's important to clean them regularly to maintain a hygienic environment. Most rugs are machine-washable, but it's always best to refer to the care label for specific instructions. If there is no tag, consult a comprehensive guide on cleaning bathroom rugs to determine the appropriate method based on the material composition of your particular rug or mat.

Quarterly Bathroom Maintenance Tasks

To ensure your bathroom remains hygienic and clutter-free, incorporate these essential maintenance tasks into your cleaning schedule every few months.

1. Sanitize Garbage Bin

If you don't consistently use garbage bags, it's wise to clean your garbage can every few months. After emptying the can, put in a small amount of dishwashing liquid and fill it with hot water. Allow it to sit for a while, then dry it out with a cleaning cloth or disposable paper towels.

2. Refresh Your Bathroom Surfaces

Natural stone surfaces like granite and marble add a touch of elegance to your bathroom, but they require regular maintenance to stay looking their best. To protect and enhance these beautiful materials, it's important to reseal them every few months using a high-quality commercial sealer ($24, The Home Depot). A simple water test can help you determine if it's time to reseal: simply sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water forms beads and doesn't soak in, you can wait a bit longer before resealing. However, if the water is quickly absorbed, it's a sign that your stone needs to be resealed to maintain its durability and luster.

3. Tidy Up the Bathroom Vanity

The bathroom vanity is often overlooked during regular cleaning routines, but it deserves attention as well. Begin by sorting through the items stored in the vanity, discarding any expired cosmetics or unused toiletries. Clean the interior and exterior surfaces using a mild detergent and a soft cloth, ensuring that all drawers and compartments are thoroughly wiped down. Organize the remaining items neatly before placing them back inside the vanity.

4. Clean the Mirrors

Mirrors in bathrooms tend to get splattered and smudged easily. Use a glass cleaner and a soft, lint-free cloth to make your mirrors sparkle and reflect the room clearly again.

5. Cleanse the Ventilation System

Though the ventilation fan may be out of direct sight, it's crucial not to overlook its maintenance. Aim to thoroughly clean it a minimum of twice per year, ideally once per season. Failure to do so can hinder the fan's efficiency, resulting in a buildup of excess moisture and potentially harmful mold growth within your bathroom.

To properly clean a bathroom ventilation fan, begin by cutting off the power supply at the circuit breaker for safety. Carefully unscrew the vent cover from its place on the ceiling. It's advisable to have a waste receptacle and protective eyewear readily available, as dust and debris may fall during the cover removal process. Using a soft microfiber cloth, gently brush away any accumulated dust. Next, immerse the cover in a basin of warm water mixed with a mild detergent. Ensure the cover is completely dry before securely reattaching it to the ceiling.