Bathroom Cleaning Hacks That’ll Save You Time (and Scrubbing)

Let me tell you about the time I stood in my new apartment’s bathroom and seriously considered just…never showering again.

I’d just moved in, all excited, candles lit, plants placed, Pinterest-worthy vibe going – until I took a closer look at the tub. Soap scum. Hard water stains. Hair (not mine). I had no idea where to start, and every “deep clean” tutorial I Googled required 3 hours and a hazmat suit.

Sound familiar?

That mess taught me a few things the hard way. Since then, I’ve picked up some genius bathroom cleaning hacks that actually work without taking over your entire Saturday. And because I’m a firm believer that your bathroom can be clean and aesthetic (without losing your mind), I’m spilling it all right here.

Let’s get into it.

1. Start with a 10-Minute Reset (Yes, Just 10!)

Before we get into the deep stuff, let’s start simple. You’d be surprised how much better your bathroom looks with just a quick reset.

Here’s what I do once a week:

• Toss used towels into the laundry basket
• Take out the trash (those cotton swabs pile up fast)
• Clear the counter – put away skincare, toothpaste, etc.
• Wipe the mirror with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth

Pro tip: Keep a small bin under your sink just for bathroom stuff you use daily. It makes resetting the space way faster.

This quick tidy-up makes deep cleaning feel way less intimidating.

2. My Go-To Hacks for Scrubbing Less, Winning More

Now for the actual hacks. These are the time-savers I swear by after testing, failing, and finally finding what actually works.

1. Let Products Do the Work (Seriously, Let Them Sit)

One of my biggest mistakes early on? Spraying cleaner and immediately scrubbing like my life depended on it. Nope.

Instead:

• Spray your cleaner (I love Method or Lysol Bathroom Foam) on your tub, tiles, or toilet
• Walk away. Give it at least 5–10 minutes to break down grime
• Then scrub – lightly. The gunk wipes away way easier

2. Use Baking Soda + Vinegar on Almost Anything

Classic for a reason. This combo is cheap, natural, and magical.

Where I use it:

• Toilet bowl – Sprinkle baking soda inside, pour in vinegar, let it fizz for 10 mins, scrub with a brush
• Sink drain – Same mix clears funky smells and buildup
• Grout cleaner – Make a paste with baking soda + a little water, scrub with an old toothbrush
• It’s not instant magic, but it’s close.

3. Clean While You Shower

This one’s sneaky, but genius.

• Keep a dish wand filled with ½ vinegar and ½ Dawn dish soap in your shower
• Once or twice a week, scrub the walls while you’re already in there
• Rinse before you get out – it takes 2 minutes and keeps soap scum away

Not glamorous, but oddly satisfying.

3. Create an Aesthetic Bathroom Without Going Full Remodel Mode

Cleaning isn’t just about disinfecting – it’s also about making your space feel good to be in.

Here’s how I keep mine looking cute (even when I’m short on time or money):

• Add a eucalyptus bunch to the shower head (it smells spa-like and looks chic)
• Store cotton swabs, bath salts, and even toilet paper in glass jars or baskets
• Stick-on wall hooks = instant towel upgrades without drilling holes
• Swap out mismatched bottles for uniform amber glass ones (Amazon has great sets)

When everything has a “place,” it’s easier to clean and stay motivated to keep it tidy.

4. Avoid These Rookie Mistakes

Trust me, I’ve made them all.

• Using bleach on everything – It can damage grout and make your bathroom smell like a pool
• Not ventilating – Always crack a window or run the fan while cleaning, especially with vinegar or strong cleaners
• Overloading storage – A cluttered counter invites mess. Less is more in bathrooms

One more thing: don’t try to deep clean the entire bathroom in one go. Tackle one zone at a time – like just the shower, or just the vanity. Way more manageable.

5. What’s Worked Best for Me (And Might for You Too)

Here’s my simple routine that keeps the chaos at bay:

• Daily: Quick counter wipe + tidy
• Weekly: 10-minute reset + dish wand scrub in the shower
• Monthly: Deep clean toilet, tub, sink, and swap towels
• Seasonal: Declutter bathroom cabinet, restock essentials, change decor if you’re feeling it

I use tools like the Scrub Daddy sponge (oddly life-changing), Method bathroom spray (smells amazing), and a Shark handheld vacuum for quick floor sweeps. All small things that make a big difference.

You Don’t Need to Be a Cleaning Pro – Just a Bit Consistent

Keeping your bathroom clean and cute doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Small habits, clever hacks, and the right tools can make it feel effortless – well, almost.

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner figuring it out or just want to stop scrubbing for hours, I hope these tips help you take back your time and your peace.

Got a favorite bathroom cleaning trick? Or want help figuring out a routine? Drop it in the comments or check out my other post on how to clean mold from bathroom ceiling without losing your mind.