The Step-by-Step Guide to a Sparkling Bathroom Deep Clean

Transform Your Bathroom Into a Spa-Like Retreat With This Deep Cleaning Routine 

The Ultimate Bathroom Cleaning Checklist for a Sparkling Home

I've found that cleaning your bathroom from top to bottom doesn't just make it look decent—it also influences how you feel about being home. Think about it: the bathroom is where you begin first thing in the morning and typically the last place at night. Starting and ending your day in a room that is fresh-smelling, organized, and sparkles can actually impact your attitude. That is why I always attempt to view bathroom cleaning not just as a chore, but as self-care. There is a soothing quality when you walk into a clean room that makes everything else somewhat easier.

Step one that I always suggest is eliminating all that you don't need. Expired items, half-full bottles of lotion, and stale shampoos are all occupying shelf space and adding to the mess. By eliminating what you don't need, you're already streamlining it down to a less cluttered, more peaceful area. With all the clutter out of the way, you'll be surprised how simple it is to get to the actual cleaning. And trust me, the effect it has is immediate.

When scrubbing time comes around, I prefer to attack with a vigor that's almost therapeutic in nature. I always start with mirrors and glass because nothing enhances the look of a bathroom faster than a streak-free shine. Then I move on to countertops and sinks, taking special care around faucet handles because they're some of the most touched (and germiest) parts in the entire room. It's the small details that make a bathroom go from "clean enough" to "wow, this feels amazing.".

Do not overlook the toilet and the floor. They are not the most glamorous things, but they help one to be freshest. A quick disinfecting wipe around the outside of the toilet and one that makes the floor shine with a mop will tie the entire room together. The moment you step back and look at it all sparkly is when you will have an instant sense of payoff.

Deep cleaning isn't so much about scrubbing off the grime—it's about reclaiming your territory, rebooting your mind, and giving yourself a fresh start. With the right approach, the bathroom can become a space that's changed from one you can't wait to leave to one in which you can stay, breathe, and even feel inspired.

Step 1: Set the Stage for Success

Before you even begin scrubbing, preparation is essential. A deep clean of the bathroom is most effective when you are ready and mindful.

Get Your Supplies Together:

• Rubber gloves

• A bucket

• All-purpose cleaner

• Glass cleaner

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

• Disinfectant spray

• Scrub brushes (small and large)

• Old toothbrush for detail cleaning

• Microfiber cloths and sponges

• Mop and bucket

Clear the Space:

Remove everything from countertops, shower shelves, and even the floor. Towels, shampoo bottles, toothbrush holders—all of them have to go. This makes it easier to clean surfaces and prevents you from forgetting areas.

Ventilate:

Open a window or turn on the fan to keep the room well-ventilated. Not only does this circulate the air, but it also prevents penetrating odors from lingering in the area.

Step 2: Confront Dust and Cobwebs

Bathrooms accumulate more dust than you realize, especially in vents, light fixtures, and corners. Start with dusting so you won't dirt up clean surfaces later.

Dust light fixtures, vents, and the top of cabinets with a duster or microfiber.

Don't forget the baseboards. These places accumulate dust quickly because of moisture. 

Check corners for cobwebs and knock them down with a long-handled duster.

Pro Tip: Always work from top to bottom. Gravity ensures that dust falls downward, and you’ll save time by not re-cleaning surfaces.

Step 3: Focus on the Mirrors and Glass

There’s nothing more satisfying than a streak-free mirror. But mirrors in bathrooms often deal with toothpaste flecks, fingerprints, and water spots.

Spray glass cleaner directly onto a microfiber cloth instead of the mirror to prevent drips.

Use circular motions initially to take out deposits.

Finish with vertical strokes, followed by horizontal strokes to remove any streaks remaining.

For shower doors, use the spray bottle with 50/50 white vinegar and water. Spray liberally, allow to sit for approximately 10 minutes, then wipe clean with microfiber cloth. For heavy soap scum, sprinkle a bit of baking soda on a wet sponge and gently scrub.

Step 4: Sanitize Sink and Countertops

The sink is generally the dirtiest spot in the bathroom. With toothpaste spots, makeup, and soap buildup, it needs more than a quick wipe.

Faucet: Spray with an all-purpose cleaner or vinegar solution and brush with a toothbrush around handles and base. Shine with a dry microfiber cloth.

Sink Basin: Pour baking soda over the basin, spray vinegar, and sponge clean. This not only washes away the stains but also deodorizes.

Countertops: Use disinfectant spray and clean thoroughly. Take special care near spots next to toothbrushes and soap dispensers as these are bacteria breeding zones.

Step 5: Shine the Shower and Tub

This usually takes the longest in the bathroom deep clean, but does the most good.

For Tiled Showers:

• Rinse tiles with a mixture of vinegar and water. Let sit for 15 minutes.

• Clean grout lines with a hard-bristled brush or an old toothbrush.

• For stubborn grout stains, create paste with water and baking soda, apply to grout, let sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

For Bathtubs

• Fill the tub with hot water and several inches deep and add a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 15 minutes.

• Drain and sprinkle baking soda across the bottom of the tub.

• Brush or sponge until soap scum and stains are gone.

For Showerheads:

• Fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure around showerhead with a rubber band.

• Let sit overnight to break up mineral deposits.

• Rinse good the next day.

Step 6: Clean the ToiletAww, come on—everyone hates this step. 

But when it's done, your bathroom will be a whole new space.Bowl: Fill bowl with toilet cleaner or baking soda and vinegar solution. Let sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with toilet brush. Don't forget under the rim.

Seat and Lid: Spray disinfectant and microfiber cloth wipe.

Base: Clean the base of the toilet around the back where hair and dust tend to collect. A small brush or cloth is best here.

Pro Tip: Have a spare set of disposable gloves to use on the toilet. It doesn't make it quite so scary.

Step 7: Floors and BaseboardsNow that the big spaces are done, it's time to sweep it all home by cleaning the floors.

Sweep or vacuum to remove hair, dust, and debris.

Mop using hot water and a small amount of floor cleaner.

Wipe down the corners and around the toilet, where it gets dirty.

For tile grout, you can use the same baking soda and vinegar paste that you made in the shower. Scrub with a small brush and rinse well.

Step 8: Freshen Fabrics and AccessoriesIt's not only hard surfaces that require attention. 

Fabrics and accessories can harbor odors and bacteria as well.Shower Curtains and Liners: Wash them if possible. Include them with a load of towels to wash them like new. If washing is not feasible, wipe down with vinegar.

• Bath Mats: Hot water is used to wash away bacteria. Dry thoroughly before returning them to the floor.

• Towels: Replace with brand new ones that have only been washed for that spa feel.

• Trash Can: Wash with soap and water, and spray with disinfectant before putting in a fresh bag.

Step 9: Add the Finishing TouchesHere is where your bathroom transforms from merely clean to blinding.

Disinfect doorknobs, cabinet handles, and light switches.

Make chrome fixtures shine by polishing them.

Place a gentle air freshener, like an essential oil diffuser or candle.

Fold or roll towels neatly to make it inviting.

Step 10: Maintain Your SparkleAlthough this is a deep clean organizer, the key to maintaining your bathroom shine is upkeep. 

Little habits count to big results.Wipe sink and counters with a clean cloth after tooth brushing.

• Squeegee shower walls after each shower.

• Bath mats washed weekly.

• Lightly clean the toilet every other day.

By incorporating these small habits, you’ll extend the results of your deep clean and make your next one much easier.The bathroom is not deep cleaned because it is a nice bathroom; it's because you have a place where you can start and end your day feeling clean. The mirrors, the floor – all of it adds up to that shiny finish. And even if it does not come easily or quickly, the reward is worth it.