How to Clean the Bathroom as You Go

Let’s be real: cleaning the bathroom is one of the most universally dreaded chores. But what if you could make it feel like you’re not really cleaning at all? That’s the magic of cleaning as you go—little by little, you tackle the mess without having to tackle a massive deep-cleaning session.

The best part? Even if you only do one of the tips below, you’re still making progress. And progress is worth celebrating! So, let’s get sneaky with these practical, low-effort ways to clean the bathroom on the sly:

1. Wipe Down the Sink After You Use It

Keep a spray bottle, an all-purpose cleaner or a stash of disposable towelettes on a shelf. After washing your hands or brushing your teeth, take a second to wipe around the sink. Voilà—instant shine, no heavy lifting required.

2. Use Toilet Cleaner Pods

Stick a toilet cleaner pod to the inside of the bowl, and it will clean every time you flush—zero effort from you. Bonus points if you keep a toilet brush handy (whether reusable or with disposable pads) for the occasional quick scrub.

3. Keep Supplies Close

Store your bathroom cleaning essentials—like spray cleaner, microfiber cloths, or paper towels—in an accessible spot. That way, whenever you’re in the bathroom, the supplies are right there if the urge to tidy strikes.

4. Spritz the Shower After Use

No-scrub shower sprays are game-changers. After you shower, spritz the walls and let the cleaner work its magic. It keeps buildup at bay with almost no effort.

5. Scrub While You’re in the Shower

Consider a shower/bath scrubber that lives in the shower with you. Give the walls or tub a quick scrub after bathing to stay ahead of residue or soap scum.

6. Clear the Drain After Each Shower

Okay, this one’s gross, but pulling hair out of the drain after each shower is way better than dealing with a clogged drain later. Snaking the drain? No, thank you.

Why It’s Worth It

Cleaning as you go might not leave your bathroom sparkling like a commercial, but it will keep it looking presentable and more hygienic for anyone who uses it (yourself included!). Plus, these small steps can save you from the dreaded deep-clean marathon, freeing up your time and energy for things that actually matter to you.

Start with one or two of these tips—your future self will thank you!