Your Guide to the Best Cleaning Supplies for Bathroom

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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If you're gearing up for spring cleaning, you may consider tackling your routine room by room, starting in the bathroom. The bathroom is one of the most germ-ridden areas of your house, and it can get a lot of use throughout the day. A buildup of toothpaste and soap scum can leave sinks and glass shower doors greasy, and you'll need an effective cleaner to cut through the grime.

Keeping your bathroom clean can be arduous, but having the best cleaning supplies for the bathroom on hand is a big help. From toilets to showers to tubs, bathroom cleaning supplies have different formulas to clean different areas of your bathroom. This article lists the essential cleaning products for your bathroom to help you begin your search for bathroom cleaning supplies.

Mr. Clean Multipurpose Cleaning Solution tops my list because it effectively cleans any bathroom surface. It is also environmentally safe and leaves a fresh scent behind. Clorox Clinging Bleach Gel boasts superior whitening properties for the toilet bowl. It is easy to use and kills 99.9% of germs. Lastly, my third choice is the RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover, thanks to its ability to remove 99.9% of mold, mildew, and limestone yellowing on various surfaces.

Best Bathroom Cleaning Supplies

1. Best Multipurpose Cleaner: Mr. Clean Multipurpose Cleaning Solution

Sale
Mr. Clean Multipurpose Cleaning Solution with Febreze,...
  • Clean and freshen your business at the same time.
  • Multipurpose liquid cleaner cuts grease, removes grime and leaves...
  • Use it to clean dirt and eliminate odors on linoleum as well as...
  • Outside, this all-purpose cleaner is perfect for garbage cans,...
  • Contains no chlorine, bleach or ammonia.

For a great cleaning solution compatible with any bathroom surface, I recommend the Mr Clean Multipurpose Cleaning Solution. It is bleach-free and safe for every surface, including tiles, grout, sinks, tubs, and toilets. You can also use it to clean the stainless steel hardware.

Image Source: amazon.in

This product doesn't come with a nozzle, so I bought a spray bottle to get the cleaner on every surface, including hard-to-reach corners, but you can also use it directly from the bottle on a sponge. It cuts grease and removes dirt effortlessly, leaving you with a clean, fresh bathroom. What I truly love about this multipurpose cleaning solution is the light, fresh scent it leaves behind.

Additionally, it's an environmentally-safe choice that creates minimal waste than other products. You can also use it in other rooms to clean various surfaces, such as floors, trash cans, and outdoor furniture. Just keep in mind that this cleaning formula isn't a disinfectant; therefore, it won't kill germs

Pros:

  • Pleasant smell
  • Great value for money
  • Safe for various surfaces

Cons:

  • Not a disinfectant
  • Can leave streaks on glasses

2. Best Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Clorox Clinging Bleach Gel Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Sale
Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Clinging Bleach Gel, Rain...
  • BLEACH TOILET BOWL CLEANER: Kills 99.9% of germs, and whitens and...
  • Clorox TOILET CLEANER: The only Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Clorox...
  • DISINFECTING BLEACH CLEANER: Thick and powerful bleach gel...
  • BATHROOM CLEANER: Clinging gel formula with Clorox Bleach, lets...
  • DEODORIZING CLEAN: Squirt bleach cleaner under and around the...

A toilet bowl cleaner is one of the most essential bathroom cleaning supplies. If you are looking for an effective whitening cleaner for your toilet bowl, Clorox Clinging Bleach Gel got you covered. 

Cleaning the toilet with this product is a simple task. I applied the gel with the angled nozzle around and under the rim to let it cling and coat the toilet bowl for deep-down cleaning. It took little scrubbing with a stiff toilet brush to make the toilet bowl fresh and sparkle. It's recommended to let it sit for at least 5 minutes to sanitize, then flush.

Image Source: cloroxsingapore.com

This toilet cleaner contains bleach, which effectively deodorizes the toilet, kills germs, and removes toilet bowl stains in hard-to-reach places. The angled nozzle also helps you target the liquid gel under the rim. However, its color is white, and I found it hard to see where I applied it, but you should ensure you apply a sufficient amount to cover the entire bowl. For best results and maintenance, apply this gel weekly. 

Pros:

  • Easy to apply
  • Requires minimal scrubbing
  • Kills 99.9% of germs

Cons:

  • It's hard to see the cleaner in the toilet bowl

3. Best Mold and Mildew Stain Remover: RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover

Sale
RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray -...
  • GET RID OF STUBBORN MOLD AND MILDEW STAINS: Our instant spray...
  • REMOVE UNWANTED ODORS: Keep your home free of musty, damp smells...
  • FAST-ACTING SPRAY: Our fast-acting mold stain remover spray,...
  • NO SCRUBBING NEEDED: Simply spray our ready-to-use formula on the...
  • SAFE TO USE ON MULTIPLE SURFACES: Easily remove stains from...

The RMR-86 Mold and Mildew Stain Remover is one of the 'miracle' cleaning products I've encountered. This product impressed me the most because it worked, and I didn't have to use force to scrub the affected bathroom surfaces. Simply spray it on grout, showers, toilets, or tiled surfaces that are stained with mold or mildew and let it sit for 5 minutes to penetrate before rinsing with water. No scrubbing!

Image Source: rmrsolutions.com

This mildew and mold stain remover removes 99.9% of mildew, mold, and limestone yellowing. Using it as directed can prevent mildew and mold regrowth for up to a week or two. However, RMR-86 has a noxious smell reminiscent of chlorine bleach, which can be overpowering. It also irritates the skin and eyes. Therefore, when using it, ensure you wear full PPE, including a body suit, mask, eye covers, and protective household gloves, and ensure the area you are working in is well-ventilated.

Pros:

  • Fast-acting formula
  • Works on a variety of surfaces
  • Safe for indoor or outdoor use

Cons:

  • Bleach may damage some surfaces

4. Best Glass and Mirror Cleaner: Rejuvenate Scrub Free Soap Scum Remover

Rejuvenate Scrub Free Soap Scum Remover Shower Glass...
  • Rejuvenate Scrub Free Soap Scum Remover Non-abrasive Cleaning...
  • Effective to use on glass, ceramic tile, fiberglass, natural...
  • Easy to use, just spray and rinse, for a streak finish
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  • Winner of multiple cleaning product awards | Proudly Made in...

When you use a cleaner not meant for cleaning glass and mirrors, most attempts to clean your bathroom mirrors and glasses to perfection fail, as streaks often appear after the cleaner has dried up.

Rejuvenate No Scrub Soap Scum Remover is my best recommendation for tackling soap scum and other buildups in your bathroom glasses and mirrors because it is powerful, versatile, and remarkably easy to use. But those aren't the only spots you can use this hardworking cleaner. It also works well on other bathroom surfaces, such as counters and sinks.

Image Source: walmart.com

As the name suggests, I simply sprayed it on my glass shower door in an even layer and left it for 5 minutes. Then I used a microfiber cloth to wipe it away. Microfiber absorbs the residue much better than normal cloth, leaving the surface shiny and streak-free.

Mist it onto fiberglass, ceramic tile, natural stone, plastic, porcelain, chrome, and glass, and watch it work its magic, quickly dissolving water spots and mineral buildup. There's absolutely no scrubbing required.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Removes soap scum

Cons:

  • Intense smell

5. Best Tub and Tiles Cleaner: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, Extra Durable Pro Version,...
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  • Magic Erasers are also available in Kitchen, Original, and...

If your tub and tile walls and floors look a little worse because of grunge buildup, the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is your saving grace. These magical melamine sponges make cleaning the bathroom exceptionally quick and efficient. They are infused with rich foaming cleansing agents to help remove stains, grime, and soap scum from your tiled bathroom floors, walls, and tub.

Image Source: ubuy.ke

With these magical sponges, you don't have to deal with messy liquid or spray. To activate, just wet the sponge with water and get to work. The sponges have a contoured shape that makes them easier to hold than traditional sponges, and they're textured so they can erase those tough stains, but you may need to lend elbow grease for that.

In addition to the cleanser, the sponges are loaded with a nice fragrance that will leave your bathroom smelling fresh and feeling just as clean as it looks.

However, after wetting these sponges, I noticed they flake apart as I used them. Also, I wasn't gently using them on my acrylic tub and noticed they scratched it. Besides, you can use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on just about any bathroom surface, so it's versatile. 

Pros:

  • Convenient to use
  • No bathroom cleaner liquid needed

Cons:

  • It's difficult to store after use

6. Best Drain Cleaner: Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover and Cleaner

Sale
Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover and Cleaner for Shower...
  • TRUSTED BRAND: Drano Max Gel Clog Remover is the #1 Selling Gel...
  • FAST-ACTING: Gets to work in as quick as 7 minutes
  • REMOVES CLOGS: Pours through standing water straight to the clog
  • SAFE ON PIPES: Safe for garbage disposals, bathroom, kitchen and...
  • WORKS OVERNIGHT: Can leave in drains overnight

Think about what you flush down your drain every day. No matter how sparkling you keep your bathroom sink and tub, your washroom's plumbing system is bound to be filled with hair, soap scum, and dirt. Therefore, it is important to stock a high-quality drain cleaner.

Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover and Cleaner stand out because it effectively clears debris in shower drains, and it can also be useful for other drains in your home, whether in the laundry room or kitchen. 

Image Source: powertownsend.com

This reliable and effective drain cleaner is a thick gel that goes deeper in drains and sinks to reach the clog's source and dissolve it. The cleaning process is a breeze, and it works quickly to rid your drains of clogs. To use it, I poured two-fifths of the bottle into my shower drain and let it sit for 20 minutes before flushing it with hot water. My drain was heavily clogged, so I had to repeat the application. You can also increase the waiting time in such cases

Drano Max Gel is highly concentrated and has a very pungent chemical smell. Also, it can be harmful when it gets into contact with your skin or eyes. Therefore, you should handle it with utmost care and precisely follow the directions on the product.

In addition to remedying your clog, this gel-based formula coats the pipes, protecting them against corrosion over time.

Pros:

  • Versatile
  • Highly concentrated
  • Coats pipes for prevention

Cons:

  • Strong smell
  • Hard to measure

7. Best Shower Cleaner: Better Life Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner

Sale
Better Life Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner, Tea Tree and...
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If you are looking for an effective shower cleaner that's also non-toxic, the Better Life Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner is up the task. Plant-based and eco-friendly, this gentle cleaning agent can penetrate rust, hard water stains, soap scum, and other grime more than some cleaners rely on more harmful chemicals.

Image Source: popsugar.com

Just spray it on the shower surfaces, and let it sit for some minutes before wiping it away or rinsing it with water. But, since it is such a gentle formula, it left a moderate amount of streaks on the first pass, but I cleaned up the laggard stains with a few subsequent scrubs. Also, I recommend using this cleaner for frequent cleaning and maintenance rather than a deep clean.

Scented with eucalyptus and tea tree oils, this cleaning solution leaves a pleasant scent when you are done cleaning. It comes in a standard spray bottle that works fine. I liked its thin spray pattern, which provides good coverage on the bathroom surfaces.

It is also suitable for acrylic, stainless steel, ceramic, porcelain, fiberglass, and chrome surfaces. Therefore, you can use it all over your bathroom, so it's my ideal option for shower cleaners.

Pros:

  • A good value for a non-toxic cleaner
  • Eco-friendly

Cons:

  • Scent can be strong
  • Requires a bit more effort to scrub out stains
  • Less effective than more abrasive cleaners

8. Best Scrubber: Rubbermaid Reveal Power Scrubber

Sale
Rubbermaid Reveal Power Scrubber and Grout Head for...
  • INCLUDES: 1 Powered Handle, 1 Multi-Purpose Head, 1 Grout...
  • FAST SCRUBBING POWER: Power scrubber tool designed to clean up to...
  • TIME SAVINGS: Oscillating head scrubs 60 times per second
  • WATER RESISTANT: Liquid resistant assembly for durability you...
  • 2 DIFFERENT SETTINGS: Pulse and continuous scrubbing settings

This small handheld scrub brush is perfect for cleaning various bathroom surfaces. It offers a faster and deeper clean than manual cleaning, thanks to its head oscillating 60 times per second. Also, it has two different scrubbing settings, continuous and pulse, and comes with two exchangeable heads, each designed for a specific cleaning task.

Image Source: groupon.com

I used the small multipurpose head to clean tight spaces, while the tapered brush head could easily enter the grout lines and every other small nook and cranny. However, using the multipurpose head scrub to clean the entire bathroom was rather cumbersome since it was too small.

With an ergonomic grip and rubber molded handle, this tool is comfortable to hold and easy to operate. It is powered by AA batteries, which are included, but you'll need to replace them after some time. Additionally, the brush parts are easy to clean and dishwasher-safe.

Pros:

  • Comfortable to hold
  • Two scrubbing settings
  • Can handle various cleaning tasks

Cons:

  • Batteries should be replaced over time
  • The small brush is not ideal for large bathroom surfaces

9. Best Brush: OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub & Tile Brush

Sale
OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub & Tile Brush,Orange
  • Extends from 26” to 42” with a quick twist to clean without...
  • Great for tubs, tiles, glass, floors and narrow spaces around the...
  • Sturdy bristles scrub broad surfaces and fit into corners and...
  • Front bristles shaped to get into corners, recesses and grout...
  • Head pivots for cleaning at different angles

OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub & Tile Brush is an extendable brush that makes cleaning upper shower corners and bathroom floor much easier.

Image Source: onlinekitchen.co.uk

I gave it a quick, simple twist, and the handle extended to 42 inches, removing the need to bend down, craning my body to get to the hard-to-reach places. Nonetheless, I noticed that it doesn't make any sound to indicate if it is locked in the extended length, so I had to make a few tries to keep it in place. Since the head rotates, I could clean at different angles

This tub and tile brush is lightweight and easy to operate. Its non-slip grip secures the scrubber firmly in your hands, even if wet. When you are done using it, the handle draws back to its original length, 26 inches, making it easier to store.

The OXO Good Grips brush has an antimicrobial abrasive head, similar to a scouring pad in texture, making it perfect for deep cleaning. Plus, it works on any tile, glass, and tub surfaces. Also, it has a pointed tip, allowing you to access grout lines, corners, and other hard-to-reach spaces.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Convenient, extendable handle
  • Antimicrobial scrub head

Cons:

  • It doesn't indicate when locked at an extended length

10. Best Air Freshener and Deodorizer: Febreze Air Freshener Spray

Sale
Febreze Air Freshener Spray, Air Deodorizer Odor...
  • fights air odors without masking, leaving nothing behind but a...
  • Hold upright and spray in a sweeping motion throughout your house
  • Spray every day in bathrooms, kitchens, offices, laundry rooms,...
  • Perfect for whole-home freshness with a 100% natural propellant

Lastly, you'll need an air freshener and deodorizer to finish your cleaning supplies list. Febreze Air Freshener Spray is the best solution to eliminate unpleasant odors. Whether post-workout sweat or lingering bathroom odors, this fine mist effortlessly dispersed, infusing my bathroom with a refreshing fragrance and creating a clean revitalized atmosphere. What truly amazed me was its exceptional ability to eliminate and neutralize odors.

Image Source: theofficepoint.com

Another feature of the Febreze Air Freshener Spray is its wide collection of captivating scents. With options like Gain Original, Linen & Sky, and Hawaiian Aloha, there's a fragrance to suit every mood and preference.

Additionally, the versatility of the Febreze Air Freshener Spray impressed me. While its primary purpose was freshening and deodorizing the bathroom, I discovered it was equally effective in other areas of my home.

Pros:

  • Effective in eliminating unpleasant odors
  • Wide range of captivating scents to choose from
  • Long-lasting freshness that lingers for hours
  • Versatile application beyond the bathroom
  • Easy to use with a simple spray nozzle

Cons:

  • It may not wholly mask extremely strong odors
  • The spray mist can leave a slight residue on surfaces if overused or sprayed too closely

What to Consider when Choosing Bathroom Cleaning Supplies 

1. Type

Bathroom cleaners come in different forms, including foam, spray, gel, scrubbers, and wipes. To choose the right one, consider factors such as how often you want to clean and compatibility on certain surfaces.

Sprays and liquid products are ideal for cleaning large surface areas since they can be applied more freely in one go. If you don't want to miss a spot, opt for a foam formula to see the areas that still need cleaning easily. Gel cleaners cling to the surface they're applied to, making them perfect for areas that require a deep clean, like toilet bowls, shower walls, or the bathroom sink. 

Scrubbers and wipes are normally disposable, so you can throw them after cleaning a problem area, but some can be reused. Also, some of them have a built-in cleanser, while others will require you to add some cleaning agent.

2. Compatible Surfaces

Bathroom cleaning supplies are often formulated to clean specific surfaces like porcelain toilets, shower tile, chrome fixtures, and glasses. Some cleaning products are formulated for one or two different surfaces, while multipurpose options can be used on almost every surface in the bathroom.

For showers and tubs, go for a product intended for use on porcelain, tile, vinyl, ceramic, or stone. You'll likely use a separate cleaner for your glass shower doors. Ensure to use products compatible with the surfaces you intend to clean to avoid damaging any bathroom surfaces.

3. Ease of Use

There are some bathroom cleaners formulated to work with minimal to no scrubbing. They normally come in a foam or gel formula. Once applied, they must sit on the surface for some minutes to reach their utmost effectiveness. Cleaning supplies like scrubbers, brushes, and sponges will need some elbow grease to do the job effectively, and they'll also need maintenance, whether squeezing or washing them between uses.

4. Application Method and Safety Precautions

Many bathroom cleaners come in liquid form. Some have spray nozzles for precise application, while others need a separate sponge and bucket. Sprays are more convenient because they take less time and precision. You only need to spray and wipe. However, if you have tough spots, like mildew spots or hard water stains, a bucket, and sponge may be of better help since you can dip an abrasive tool like a scrubber or brush into the solution and then apply it directly to the affected spot.

Additionally, some combination products, like the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, that act as a cleaning formula and scrubbing tool. They are the most convenient options but aren't as abrasive as other cleaners.

Furthermore, with all cleaners, check out the instructions on the product label to know when and how you should use the cleaner. You should precisely follow those instructions to ensure you use the product safely. Also, you shouldn't mix cleaners or use them immediately after each other. Mixing cleaners and ingredients can be highly dangerous.

5. Ingredients

Harsh chemicals such as ammonia and bleach are common in bathroom cleaners so that they can tackle the toughest stains. Therefore, it's recommended to check the ingredients list to decide which ingredients are best for your desired level of cleaning before buying a bathroom cleaner.

While these ingredients can effectively remove tough stains, you should handle them with extreme care because some harsh chemicals can cause skin and eye irritation if used incorrectly. Also, ensure the bathroom has proper ventilation, and use gloves and a mask if necessary. 

When looking for eco-friendly or non-toxic ingredients in cleaning products, you can reference the EPA's Safer Choice Products. Cleaning products with the EPA's seal are generally considered safe and gentle but still effective

Frequently Asked Questions on Bathroom Cleaning Supplies

i) Can you use bathroom cleaners in other spaces of your home?

While some cleaners, like multipurpose solutions, can be used on various surfaces throughout the home, using bathroom cleaners for their intended purpose is safer. Generally, do not use a bathroom cleaner on other surfaces or rooms not stated on the label. Also, you can do a spot test on an inconspicuous area to ensure it is safe to use on a particular surface.

ii) How often should you clean your bathroom?

Cleaning the bathroom once a week can make deep cleanings less exhausting. But if many people use the same bathroom, you may want to clean it more often. Small tasks like wiping the mirror, toilet, and sink and spraying the shower with a daily shower cleaner are simple methods to keep your bathroom clean and sanitized.

You can clean the bathtub and floor every two weeks. Also, it's important to invest in deep clean monthly. This includes unclogging the drain and thoroughly scrubbing and disinfecting all surfaces.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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