Transforming the often-overlooked bathroom into a haven of serenity and cleanliness is a priority for any homeowner. And the good news is that maintaining a spotless bathroom is not only possible, but also therapeutic! To achieve this, we’ve gathered 35 game-changing cleaning hacks that will make your bathroom sparkle, providing you with the ultimate guide to a sparkling clean bathroom.
Cleaning Begins with Clean Tools
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of cleaning your bathroom, it’s essential to begin with a solid foundation – namely, using tools that are in pristine condition. A dirty mop, for instance, can be clogged with dirt and grease, leaving behind an unsightly residue on your floors. Similarly, a broom tangled with debris and hair or a vacuum filled with dirt will struggle to effectively pick up dirt and dust.
To avoid these common cleaning pitfalls, make it a habit to regularly clean and maintain your tools after every use, ensuring they’re always ready to tackle any mess that comes their way.
Use a Squeegee for your Mirrors
Incorporating a squeegee into your bathroom cleaning routine is a simple yet highly effective way to maintain a sparkling clean space. One of the most significant benefits of using a squeegee is its ability to prevent water mineral buildup on glass surfaces, such as mirrors and shower doors. To reap this benefit, take just a couple of minutes after each shower to carefully wipe down tiles and glass surfaces in a smooth, even motion, much like you would clean a car windshield.
By doing so, you’ll significantly reduce the accumulation of mineral deposits and soap scum, resulting in less frequent cleaning needs.
Use Baby Oil to Clean Metal Faucets and Surfaces
Baby oil is not just for babies – its versatility makes it an effective cleaning solution for various household items. Beyond its traditional use in infant care, baby oil can be used to clean and polish metal surfaces with ease. To get started, simply wipe down metal fixtures such as faucets or furnishings with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then, apply a few drops of baby oil to a soft cloth and gently rub the surface to reveal a sparkling finish.
Use Food Coloring to Detect Toilet Leaks
If you’re consistently discovering puddles of water in your bathroom even after thoroughly drying the area, it’s possible that a toilet leak is to blame. To confirm this suspicion, try adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank of your toilet. If the leak originates from the tank itself, this simple test should reveal its source.
By identifying the root cause of the issue, you’ll not only avoid wasting valuable water resources but also save yourself money in the long run by minimizing unnecessary water consumption.
Use Vinegar to Stop a Sputtering Shower
Transform your sputtering shower head into a gleaming wonder with ease! A simple yet effective solution requires just one essential ingredient: distilled white vinegar. To start, simply remove the showerhead and immerse it in the vinegar for an extended period. The acidity of the vinegar will effortlessly dissolve mineral deposits, restoring a smooth flow to your shower experience.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a hands-free approach, fill a plastic bag with diluted white vinegar and secure it to the showerhead using rubber bands or even a zippered bag. Allow this clever contraption to work its magic overnight, as the vinegar works tirelessly to break down mineral buildup and leave your showerhead spotless.
Try the Vinegar and Water Rinse
To maintain a sparkling clean shower, some house cleaners recommend using a simple yet effective solution: a 50/50 mix of distilled white vinegar and water. Mix equal parts of each ingredient in a spray bottle and use it as part of your daily or every-other-day cleaning routine to prevent soap scum from accumulating and leaving stubborn stains.
Use Chopsticks to Clean Crevices Around Fixtures
While traditional kitchen cutlery may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about cleaning tools for the bathroom, there is one notable exception: chopsticks. These versatile utensils can be repurposed to access and clean hard-to-reach areas in your bathroom.
By wrapping a cloth around a chopstick, you can create a makeshift tool ideal for tackling tasks such as cleaning grout lines, dusty vents, faucets, and other tight spaces that are notoriously difficult to reach with standard cleaning tools.
Try Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are the ultimate solution for wiping surfaces, outperforming all others when it comes to effectively capturing dirt without leaving behind any unsightly spots or streaks. Their remarkable properties make them an ideal choice for tackling various tasks around the house, including cleaning bathroom essentials like sinks and other fixtures, leaving a sparkling finish that’s nothing short of impressive.
Clean your Hair Styling Tools
When it comes to maintaining your flat or curling iron, an ineffective cleaning method can lead to subpar results – not to mention the inconvenience that comes with dealing with sticky surfaces. The culprit behind this issue is often a buildup of oil and hair products, which can accumulate over time and create a gunk-like substance.
To effectively clean your appliance without compromising its performance or safety, you’ll want to start by applying some rubbing alcohol to the affected area using a cotton pad. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a microfiber cloth.
If the first method doesn’t quite do the trick, you can try using a simple baking soda paste to get rid of the gunk.
To make this paste, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one teaspoon of water until you have a smooth, consistent texture. Apply it to the appliance and gently scrub away before rinsing off with a soft, damp cloth.
Keep a Convenient Caddy
When it comes to cleaning, many of us focus on the big picture – removing large stains and splatters. However, it’s also important to address those smaller imperfections that can add up to make a big difference in the overall cleanliness of your space. Having the right supplies stashed away can make all the difference.
Store disinfectant wipes, glass cleaner, and an all-purpose spray bottle in one convenient location to tackle those pesky toothpaste spots on mirrors and water splotches that seem to appear out of nowhere.
Clear Hard Water Rings and Streaks
For individuals living in regions with notoriously hard water, a common issue that often arises is the stubborn presence of rings and streaks on toilet bowls that defy removal despite thorough scrubbing or frequent cleaning. The culprit behind this problem lies in the high mineral content of calcium, iron, and magnesium, which can combine to form unsightly rust-colored stains that prove remarkably difficult to eradicate.
Fortunately, there’s a straightforward solution to combat these unwanted discolorations. A mixture of vinegar and baking soda, used periodically, is an effective way to keep the toilet bowl free from stubborn stains. For more persistent cases, borax paste can be employed as a reliable alternative.
Keep Surfaces Dry
Bathrooms can quickly turn into hazardous zones if not properly maintained. Standing water, in particular, poses a significant threat as it invites insects and acts as a magnet for dust and hair. To prevent accidents and unpleasantness, it’s essential to dry wet spots immediately upon discovery, thereby minimizing the risk of slips and falls.
Embrace the Use of Steam
When it comes to tackling dirty tiles, a handheld steamer proves to be an invaluable tool. Its ability to reach into tight spaces and deliver a concentrated blast of hot air makes quick work of stubborn dirt and grime. The high temperatures and pressure generated by the steam cleaner are particularly effective at breaking down and dissolving even the toughest buildup, leaving your surfaces looking like new again.
Ventilation can Make a Huge Difference
Mold can spread rapidly in bathroom environments, where humidity persists after use. The dampness creates an ideal breeding ground for mold growth, often accompanied by unsightly scum accumulation.
To combat this issue, consider increasing air circulation by opening the windows to promote evaporation. However, if your curtains have already succumbed to mold, a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to four parts water) can aid in their removal.
Simply submerge them in the mixture and allow the solution to work its way through the fabric.
Try Pumice to Remove Stubborn Stains
Pumice stones may be commonly linked with pedicures, but they can also be utilized to eradicate stubborn stains from your toilet bowl. This versatile abrasive is available in both powder and liquid forms, making it a cost-effective solution for tackling hard water stains, limescale, and rust. To utilize pumice stones for toilet cleaning, simply lower the water level, don some gloves, and begin scrubbing with gentle yet firm strokes.
Unclog Your Drains
A clogged drain can be frustrating to deal with, but a common household remedy can help restore smooth drainage flows. The combination of baking soda and vinegar is a powerful duo that can tackle even the most stubborn blockages. To use this method, first remove the drain plug and add 3-4 tablespoons of baking soda. Next, pour in an equal amount of vinegar, allowing the mixture to sit in the drain for about 20 minutes.
Once the time has passed, rinse the area with warm water to wash away any remaining debris. As the mixture breaks down, it will effectively clear out scum and grease buildup, leaving your drains flowing freely once again.
Make a Customized Air Freshener
Just like a refreshing breeze, an air freshener can revitalize any space, including the bathroom – without breaking the bank. You don’t have to rely on commercial brands; instead, create your own at home using simple ingredients. A concoction of distilled water and essential oils makes for an effective and affordable air freshening solution. To get started, grab a mister bottle commonly used in gardening.
Fill it with undiluted white vinegar and add a few drops of your preferred essential oil variety – choose from options like lavender, citrus, or woody scents.
Get Creative with DIY Toilet Cleaner Bombs
When it comes to tackling household chores, I’m all about leveraging DIY ingenuity to make life easier. Among my go-to tricks are toilet cleaner bombs, which can be whipped up with just a few simple ingredients: baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils. The process is surprisingly straightforward – simply combine these components in the toilet bowl, let them react and fizz, then scrub away for a sparkling clean result that’ll leave your bathroom looking (and smelling) fresh.
Use Shaving Cream to Prevent Your Mirrors from Fogging
Beyond its primary purpose of protecting skin, shaving cream offers some surprising benefits in the bathroom. One such advantage is its ability to prevent mirrors from fogging up during use. By applying a thin, even coating of glycerine-enriched shaving cream directly onto the mirror’s surface, you can enjoy a clear and unobstructed reflection without the hassle of foggy glass. Simply apply the shaving cream in a thin layer, then wipe it off with a soft cloth for a streak-free finish.
Repurpose Old Toothbrushes
Transforming old toothbrushes into miniature bathroom brushes is a clever way to tackle those hard-to-reach areas and leave your bathroom sparkling from top to bottom. By repurposing these humble household items, you’ll be able to effortlessly clean even the smallest crevices. To get started, simply submerge the toothbrush in hot boiled water, then use pliers or tweezers to skillfully bend one half of the brush head backward.
This clever manipulation creates a bespoke cleaning tool that can effortlessly reach into tight spaces and corners, ensuring every inch of your bathroom is spotless.
Sanitize and Dry Your Toilet Brush
It’s easy to overlook the humble toilet brush, but neglecting its maintenance can have unpleasant consequences. When not properly cleaned and dried after use, bacteria and mold can start to grow on the brush. To keep your bathroom a clean and healthy space, make sure to disinfect the toilet brush regularly by spraying it with hydrogen peroxide. Once disinfected, place the brush in a well-ventilated area where it can air dry, such as under the toilet seat.
Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Remove Mildew
When bathroom mold and mildew become apparent, it’s crucial to address them promptly to maintain the space’s cleanliness and hygiene. For those who cannot utilize chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide can serve as an effective alternative. To tackle these unwanted growths, simply fill a spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide and target specific areas of mold and mildew. Next, scrub the area thoroughly before rinsing it clean, effectively removing any lingering signs of mold or mildew.
Use Baby Shampoo to Remove Makeup
When tackling makeup-related messes, one often overlooked but supremely effective tool is baby shampoo. Not only can it effortlessly clean your makeup brushes by being used as you would soap, followed by a rinse under lukewarm water, but it’s also a stain-fighting powerhouse. To remove unsightly marks from clothing, start by dampening a soft cloth with water and then dabbing it in the gentle cleanser.
Gently rub the stain out of existence on the fabric, making quick work of even the most stubborn discolorations.
Use a Homemade Grout Cleaner to Clear Your Grout Lines
For a stain-free grout line, combine one part baking soda with two parts water to create a paste. Apply this mixture directly to the affected areas using a small brush or an old toothbrush. Next, gently scrub the grout lines in a circular motion to loosen and remove any stubborn stains. Finally, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to reveal a sparkling clean finish.
Use Laundry Supplies To Remove Soap Scum
For an effortless solution to remove soap scum from glass shower doors and tiles, consider leveraging the power of dryer sheets. Simply wet a few sheets and use them to wipe down these surfaces. The fabric softener properties within the sheets will work to break down and clear away soap scum with ease, leaving your bathroom looking sparkling clean.
Go All Natural with Lemon Power
When it comes to versatile household items, few come close to the humble lemon. Not only can you make a refreshing glass of lemonade with them, but they’re also surprisingly effective at tackling tough cleaning tasks. One of the most unexpected uses for lemons is as a natural scrubber for metal fixtures in the bathroom. Simply cut a lemon in half, sprinkle one side with salt, and use it to gently scrub away mineral deposits and grime from shower heads, faucets, and other surfaces.
The citric acid present in lemons plays a key role in breaking down these stubborn deposits, making it an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
Before cleaning, Dust
When it comes to bathroom cleaning, a crucial step is often overlooked: dusting. It’s essential to start by removing any accumulated dust from surfaces such as countertops, toilet tanks, and window sills. This initial step sets the stage for a thorough and effective cleaning process.
Use Oxygen Bleach To Whiten Your Toilet
Elevate the appearance of your toilet bowl in no time! Simply sprinkle some oxygen bleach evenly across the surface and allow it to sit for 15 minutes or overnight for maximum effectiveness. Once the desired time has passed, use a toilet brush to gently scrub away any stubborn stains or debris. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and give your toilet bowl a final flush to reveal its newly restored, crystal-clear whiteness.
Try Some Vodka on the Toilet
When cleaning supplies run short, an unexpected hero may emerge: liquor. A small amount of vodka, when poured into the toilet bowl, can be used to scrub away dirt and grime, leaving it sparkling clean. In fact, a combination of vodka and water can also be used to create a disinfecting spray that’s perfect for sanitizing high-touch areas in the bathroom, such as the toilet seat and surrounding surfaces.
Keep Your Bin Fresh
To give your trash can a thorough cleaning, start by emptying its contents. Next, mix warm water with a gentle cleanser and use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior and exterior of the bin. For an added layer of sanitization, spray a disinfectant and allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a dry cloth. Once your trash can is sparkling clean, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside the can to absorb any lingering odors and keep it smelling fresh for longer.
Keep a Jar of Rice and Essential Oils to Reduce Odors
You may have noticed that various kitchen items are being repurposed for bathroom use, with rice being the latest addition to this trend. As a natural odor absorber, mixing rice with essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or rosemary in a jar and covering it with breathable fabric can be an effective way to eliminate unpleasant smells in your bathroom. This hack not only works well in the bathroom but also extends its benefits to other rooms of your home.
An Aspirin Could be the Solution to Your Cleaning Headache
When faced with a scarcity of bathroom cleaners, think outside the box – literally! A common household item, such as an aspirin tablet, can provide a surprising solution. The salicylic acid content in the aspirin makes it an effective cleaning agent for bathroom surfaces. To utilize this hack, simply dissolve the tablet in water to create a solution that can be used to remove soap scum and stubborn stains from your shower, just like you would with any conventional cleaner.
Use a Bleach Pen to Clean the Grout
Bleach pens are often underestimated in their capabilities, but they can be surprisingly effective beyond removing stains from clothing and footwear. One of their lesser-known applications is cleaning grout lines. To achieve this, simply run the pen along the affected areas and allow it to sit overnight, giving the chemicals time to penetrate and react with the grout.
The next day, use warm water and a soft cloth to gently scrub away any remaining residue, revealing bright and revitalized grout lines that can last for days.
Powered Up Grout Cleaning
One clever way to tidy up your grout is by repurposing an old electric toothbrush or one with a spare head. Simply dampen the brush, mix it with baking soda to create a gentle abrasive paste, and use it to scrub away at those pesky tight spaces that are notoriously difficult to clean. The baking soda’s mild abrasiveness helps break down soap scum and trapped dirt, making it easier to remove stubborn grime.
Remove Rust from Chrome with an Aluminium Foil
The presence of rusty chrome fixtures can significantly mar the bathroom’s visual appeal. Fortunately, a simple yet effective solution involves using aluminum foil to restore the shine. To get started, cut an aluminum sheet into a square shape, crumple it gently and then submerge it in warm soapy water. Next, rub the rusted surface with small circular motions, working your way through the stains.
As the foil begins to disintegrate and tear, discard it and repeat the process with a new piece until the desired level of shine is achieved.
