Leaving your rental sparkling clean isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a requirement if you want your bond back. Among all the rooms, the bathroom is often the most scrutinized during an end-of-lease cleaning.
Grime, mould, and stains can build up quickly and are easily overlooked. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to deep clean your bathroom so it meets professional standards and keeps your landlord happy.
Why Bathroom Deep Cleaning Matters
Bathrooms are high-traffic, shared environments. They’re a breeding ground for germs like E. coli, Salmonella, and Mycobacterium avium. Flushing sends bacteria into the air. Mould grows in damp corners. Sink drains harbour more bacteria than a used cutting board. If not addressed, grime can lead to permanent stains and even structural issues due to mould. For end-of-lease cleaning, a bathroom that’s not up to scratch can be the reason you lose your bond.
Frequency Matters
• Clean high-traffic areas like toilets and sinks weekly
• Disinfect shared spaces immediately if someone has been ill.
• Wipe the toilet handle and seat daily
• Deep clean your bathroom every two weeks
What Causes the Problem?
Understanding the source of dirt helps prevent future buildup:
• Toilet Cleaning: Daily use leads to mineral buildup, odour, and bacteria
• Shower Cleaning: Soap scum, body oil, and mould collect on tiles and grout
• Grout Cleaning: Mold and mildew settle in porous grout lines
• Mold and Mildew Removal: Damp air and poor ventilation create perfect conditions
• Hard Water Stains: Mineral deposits from water leave cloudy marks on glass and tiles
What You’ll Need
Here’s your deep cleaning toolkit:
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Bleach or bleach alternative
• Disinfecting wipes
• Bathroom cleaner
• Toilet bowl cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Magic Erasers
• Scrub brushes (soft and hard bristle)
• Microfiber cloths
• Mop and bucket
• Rubber gloves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation
• Open windows or run the exhaust fan
• Remove all items from counters, shower, and shelves
• Shake out rugs, remove towels, and put linens in the wash
2. Dust and Dry Clean
• Dust ceiling corners, light fixtures, vents, and baseboards
• Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove loose debris
3. Tackle the Toilet
• Apply toilet bowl cleaner and let sit for 10 minutes
• Scrub under the rim and inside the bowl with a toilet brush
• Wipe the exterior: tank, lid, seat, and base using disinfecting wipes
4. Deep Clean the Shower and Tub
• Spray tiles and glass with vinegar solution
• Let sit 5 minutes, then scrub with a stiff-bristled brush
• Use baking soda on tough soap scum
• Clean the shower head with vinegar (tie a bag of vinegar around it for 20 minutes)
5. Grout and Mold
• Mix 3/4 cup bleach with 1 gallon water
• Scrub grout lines using a brush
• Rinse thoroughly
• Use HG mould spray or natural options for mildew
6. Sink and Counter
• Scrub the sink with baking soda and rinse with vinegar
• Wipe down the faucet and handles
• Clean the countertop, backsplash, and any stains
7. Mirrors and Glass
• Use glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth
• For streak-free shine, wipe in a circular motion
8. Floors and Final Touches
• Mop the floor using warm water and a floor-safe disinfectant
• Wipe skirting boards and door handles
• Rehang towels or replace them with fresh ones
Additional Tips for Success
• Use a squeegee after every shower to reduce soap scum
• Keep a spray bottle of vinegar handy for daily wipe-downs
• Use natural-bristle brushes for scratch-free scrubbing
• Always wear gloves to protect your skin
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Don’t use bleach on all surfaces—it can damage tile
• Don’t skip the exhaust fan: moisture builds up fast
• Avoid using coloured rags that can bleed onto surfaces
• Don’t clean glass when the sun is shining directly on it (streaks)
• Don’t forget behind the toilet and inside cabinet doors
FAQs
How often should you deep clean your bathroom?
Aim for a deep clean every two weeks. If someone’s sick or you’re moving out, increase the frequency.
What does deep cleaning of a bathroom include?
It includes cleaning everything: the toilet, shower, tiles, grout, floors, mirrors, shelves, and all fixtures.
What cleaning products are best for a deep clean?
Use vinegar, baking soda, bleach alternatives, disinfectant wipes, and bathroom-specific cleaners.
What order should I follow?
Start top to bottom: ceiling, walls, fixtures, sink, toilet, then floor. Always mop last.
How do I remove mould safely?
Use a commercial mould remover or a bleach solution. Keep the room ventilated during cleaning.
Conclusion
Deep cleaning your bathroom is key. It’s important for hygiene and meeting end-of-lease cleaning standards. By following the steps above, you ensure your space is spotless, fresh, and ready for inspection. If you’re in a hurry or want great results, book a professional end-of-lease cleaning with O2OCleaning. Our expert cleaners use approved products and a proven checklist. This ensures your bathroom and home shine.
