The bathroom floor takes a lot of abuse from water, soap scum, hair, and general foot traffic. Keeping it clean is not only about appearance but also about hygiene and safety. A sparkling clean floor can make your entire bathroom feel fresh and new. This guide will walk you through a simple, step-by-step process for a thorough bathroom floor cleaning, with tips for different floor types and stubborn stains.
Tools and supplies you’ll need
Before you start, gather these essential items:
- Broom or vacuum cleaner
- Dustpan
- Bucket
- Mop (microfiber or sponge mop works well)
- Stiff-bristled brush (a grout brush is ideal)
- Microfiber cloths or old towels
- Gloves
- Your preferred cleaning solution (see options below)
Cleaning tile floors vs. Vinyl or laminate
The type of flooring in your bathroom will influence the cleaning solution you use.
- For Tile Floors: Tile floors are very durable and can handle most cleaning solutions. A mixture of warm water and a small amount of dish soap or a specialized tile cleaner works great. For a deeper clean, a solution of white vinegar and water can be effective, but be cautious with unsealed natural stone tiles, as vinegar can be too acidic.
- For Vinyl or Laminate Floors: These are more delicate. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or excessive water. A gentle, pH-neutral cleaner is best. You can also mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water. Never use a steam mop on laminate, as the heat and moisture can cause the layers to separate.
Step 1 – Sweep or vacuum loose debris
Start by removing all loose dirt, dust, and hair. A broom is effective for sweeping everything into a pile for your dustpan. If you have a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, this is an even better option as it will suck up all the debris, including the fine dust and hair that brooms can sometimes miss. Make sure to get into the corners and around the base of the toilet.
Step 2 – Mop with safe cleaning solutions
Now that the floor is clear of debris, it’s time to wash it.
- Prepare Your Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add your chosen cleaning solution.
- Mop the Floor: Dip your mop into the solution, wring it out so it’s damp, not dripping, and begin mopping. Start in the farthest corner of the bathroom and work your way toward the door.
- Rinse and Dry: If your mop is particularly dirty, rinse it in a separate bucket of clean water before returning it to the cleaning solution. For a streak-free finish, you can go over the floor with a clean, dry mop or use a microfiber cloth to wipe it down.
Step 3 – Target grout lines and tough stains
Grout lines on tile floors are porous and tend to trap dirt and grime, making them look discolored.
- For Grout: Mix a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste directly to the grout lines. Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the paste into the grout. The abrasive nature of the baking soda helps to lift the dirt.
- For Tough Stains: For persistent stains like rust or hard water spots, a paste of lemon juice and salt can be effective. Apply the paste, let it sit for a while, and then scrub.
- After scrubbing, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove all residue.
Tips to maintain a sparkling bathroom floor daily
- Daily Sweep: A quick daily sweep or vacuum will prevent hair and dust from building up.
- Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Don’t let spills from toothpaste, makeup, or water sit on the floor. Wipe them up as soon as you see them.
- Use a Bath Mat: A bath mat will catch water and prevent it from collecting on the floor after a shower or bath.
- Regular Deep Clean: Aim for a full, deep clean of the bathroom floor at least once a week to prevent the buildup of grime and mildew.