7 Time-Saving Tricks That'll Speed Up Your Bathroom Cleaning Routine

Squeegee Shower Doors After Each Use

Who knew such a simple item could be so useful? Kathy Turley, cleaning pro at Home Clean Heroes, recommends picking up an inexpensive squeegee and wiping down your shower door after each use. 

"A squeegee is best, but in a pinch, your hand or a washcloth can help, too," says Turley. "It helps prevent hard water stains, soap scum, and mildew, saving you from having to scrub like crazy later on."

Work in Order

Instead of jumping from surface-to-surface at random, cleaning expert Scott Schrader recommends going from high to low to avoid recontaminating surfaces that you may have already tackled. 

Schrader says cleaning the mirrors and shelves should be first, then counters and your toilet. Last but not least, scrub the floor. (This should always be your last step to avoid getting footprints on a freshly mopped surface).

Let Cleanser Sit While Your Work

It can be tempting to spray all-purpose cleaner on your sink or tub and immediately get to scrubbing—but both of our experts say letting a solution dwell is critical for efficacy. 

"Letting a cleaner sit for the recommended dwell time—the amount of time it needs to stay wet on a surface to disinfect or break down grime properly—means it does the hard work for you," Turley explains. 

According to Turley, most cleaning products need to sit for about five minutes, but check your product’s label for specifics. "While it’s 'doing its thing,' you can clean the toilet, wipe down cabinets, or even tidy up a drawer," Turley suggests.

Keep Bathroom Cleaning Supplies in One Caddy

If you often find yourself running around looking for your toilet brush and microfiber towels every time you clean the bathroom, it's time to get organized. Turley and Schrader recommend keeping all your bathroom cleaning supplies in a single caddy or kit. 

“Having everything in one place cuts down on wasted time hunting for tools,” Turley says. “Plus, it makes it easier to move from one bathroom to another without missing a beat.”

10-Minute Tidying for Tiny Tasks

Those little annoying tasks you’re putting off—like swapping out your hand towels or emptying your mini trash can—could hold the key to a less stressful bathroom cleaning process. Keeping up with these small chores helps make things more manageable. 

"If you go around and do a 10-minute targeted wipe-down of the high-touch areas, like faucet handles or toilet seat, there will then be less scrubbing to do when you do a deep clean," shares Schrader.

Utilize Helpful Tools

Although a traditional sponge or rag will do the trick, Schrader loves picking up tools that make the cleaning process easier. Think: a power scrub brush with a head specifically designed to tackle the corners of your shower wall, or a drill brush attachment for those tile stains.

You can also find power scrub brushes with extended handles, which can minimize discomfort from constantly having to bend over.

Run the Fan

If you have a humid bathroom, turning the fan on during and after you use the shower can cut down on the mold and mildew that tends to appear in moisture-ridden spaces. (Schrader recommends letting it run for around 30 minutes.) This can help cut down on time spent scrubbing and save you plenty of elbow grease.