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Disinfect Your Bathroom With the Best Bathroom Cleaners

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 29 Mar 2023

If you want a Pinterest-worthy bathroom that sparkles, regular bathroom maintenance is essential (it’s also not a bad idea to keep germs at bay). That’s why it’s important to have the best bathroom cleaner at your disposal.

Having a quality cleaner, makes disinfecting your bathroom a breeze. I disinfect mine weekly and it only takes me 10 minutes! If you’re new the bathroom-cleaning games, don’t worry, we will walk you through all the details.

Whether you love foaming products, natural ones, or bleach-based sprays, we go over all the best bathroom cleaners of 2023. We’ve reviewed a variety of options to help you find the perfect cleaner for your needs. Whether you need something to tackle mold, mildew, or stubborn soap scum, we’ve got you covered. These bathroom cleaners will make your old house, feel like new.

Best Overall
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Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Cleaner
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Best for Tough Stains
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Lysol Bathroom Cleaner
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Best for Toilet Bowls
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Mr. Clean Bathroom Cleaner
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Best Plant-Based Cleaner
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Method Bathroom Cleaner
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Most Versatile
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Fabuloso Bathroom Cleaner
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Bathroom Cleaners: A Buying Guide

Bathroom cleaners are your best shot at having a freshly scented, sanitized restroom. This is one of the major reasons they have become an essential grocery item in the modern era. Whether you’re trying to find a bathroom cleaner for your home or workplace, you should make sure to think about a few key elements.

Things To Consider Before Buying a Bathroom Cleaner

Performance

A cleaning product must be efficient and economical because cleaning is tiring. So, the one you choose should clean quickly and ensure you get a sparkling finish in no time. Bathroom cleaners that combine efficiency with unique features have an edge over others.

Ease of use

Imagine how easy it would be if your entire bathroom could get cleaned automatically. Unfortunately, this is not possible today, but some amazing bathroom cleaners are available in the market that’ll make your bathroom squeaky clean. Make sure you get your hands on an easy-to-use solution so you don’t end up swearing while scrubbing the floors, tub, toilet, and more.

Cost-effectiveness

Bathroom cleaners that burn a hole in your pocket can shake up your whole budget. You need to find products that provide great value at an affordable price. Given this aspect, most people prefer to purchase long-lasting, effective cleaners that are more worth the price tag.

Environmental awareness

Today, many companies are concerned about their carbon footprint and how their everyday activities affect the world. Ensure that you get your hands on a product with manufacturers who realize the importance of the production methods they choose. 

Go for the companies that consider how the extraction, manufacturing, and disposal of their products have a lot of influence on water and energy consumption. If you are looking for ways to minimize your own impact, you should survey the market for bathroom cleaners with ingredients from natural, renewable sources.

Fragrance and packaging

As the market for bathroom cleaners expands, the variety of fragrances has also increased. A pleasant smell coupled with a sanitized bathroom is an added appeal for the users. That said, some consumers may prefer fragrance-free cleaners to avoid allergic reactions or simply because they don’t like scented products.

Natural vs. Artificial Bathroom Cleaners

Every house has a bathroom, but few people are fond of cleaning it. Simply washing and mopping the floor will not sanitize or disinfect the surfaces. When you start using bathroom cleaners, you’ll find that your bathroom will be cleaner than ever. But, you’ll need to consider whether to go for a natural or artificial one — let’s go through their qualities.

Promotes a healthy environment

Both types of bathroom cleaners are better than soap and water when cleaning toilet bowls and other surfaces. Many bathroom cleaners in grocery stores contain substances that kill stubborn bacteria and viruses. With these cleaners, people can be sure that their bathrooms are clean and germ-free.

Eco-friendly products improve air quality

If you decide to ditch the non-toxic products for eco-friendly options, you will find that the air quality in your bathroom will drastically improve. There will be no chemical smell in the air and no chance of inhaling toxic chemicals as you clean up the surfaces.

Another bonus is that natural bathroom cleaners don’t have synthetic scents, many of which have been found to contain xylene or phthalates. You have a high chance of inhaling these toxins when using artificial cleaners.

Artificial cleaners are stronger

While natural bathroom cleaners are definitely more sustainable and safer, both of which are huge pluses, artificial varieties are definitely stronger. Be sure not to mix different cleaners as you tackle your bathroom to avoid creating any fumes. The use of harsh chemicals makes them especially great at killing germs and cutting through both grime and soap scum. While they’re not as safe, artificial bathroom cleaners are definitely an effective way to clean your bathroom. 

Regardless of what kind you buy, techiniques for cleaning your bathroom are just as important. Check out this video on the best way to use your bathroom cleaners. 

Comparing the Highest-Rated Bathroom Cleaner of 2023

1

Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Cleaner

– Best Overall
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Cleaning can be boring, but not when you have magical products like the Scrubbing Bubbles Dissolve Bathroom Cleaner. With this product, even cleaning a bathroom can be quite fun. All you have to do is drop one pod in an empty bottle, fill it with warm water, twist the spray, and shake the bottle until it dissolves. 

This starter kit comes with one reusable spray bottle and three concentrated pods. When applied correctly, it delivers a spotless surface and even reduces plastic waste by 94%. It also powers through grime and soap scum, which helps the cleaning agent tackle the stains and remove the dirt wherever it is applied. 

You can use it on several hard and non-porous surfaces, like tubs, sinks, glazed ceramic tiles, and stainless steel. Another factor that makes this bathroom cleaner stick out is that it’s Climate Pledge Friendly, which shows that the cleaner supports the natural world through sustainable manufacturing. Overall, this cleaner is ranked as the best on our list because it leaves surfaces squeaky clean with its potent formula and easy-to-use design.

Pros
  • Reduces plastic waste by 94%
  • Easy to use
  • Works on multiple surfaces
Cons
  • A scrubbing pad is required to remove the cleaner
2

Lysol Bathroom Cleaner

– Best for Tough Stains
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If you are looking for an instant cleaning agent, you should consider the Lysol Bathroom Cleaner Spray. This fast-action foaming spray makes cleaning bathroom surfaces faster and easier than ever. It dissolves the toothpaste spatter, soap scum, and mildew odors wherever it is sprayed. You don’t have to apply and scrub on the tough stains. Instead, let the foam sit on them for 20 to 30 seconds and clean it off.

You can apply this cleaning agent on bathtubs, tiles, shower doors, countertops, floors, and sinks. It is a deep cleaning solution that kills 99.9% of bathroom germs and bacteria and takes less than a minute to loosen stuck dirt and grime on surfaces. Unlike other cleaners, the nozzle stays mess-free and allows you to spray around easily. And, for added safety, this product has no abrasives or bleach, so it doesn’t cause harm to your skin or eyes. Also, no gloves are required when using this bathroom cleaner because of its mild formula.

Pros
  • No scrubbing needed
  • Fast action foaming spray
  • Kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses
Cons
  • The smell may be strong for some 
3

Mr. Clean Bathroom Cleaner

– Best for Toilet Bowls
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Unleash your inner cleaning freak with Mr. Clean. This all-purpose cleaning spray works as a kitchen appliance, steel, and toilet bowl cleaner. The power nozzle provides aerosol and bleach-free cleaning, while the innovative cleaning mist activates when it contacts the surface and immediately cuts through the dirt. You also can use this nozzle over and over thanks to the cleaner refills, letting you play your role in reducing the plastic waste on Earth.

Its ultra-thick detergent and effective acid formula remove dirt and keep the toilet bowls free of hard water stains. You can pump the bottle for continuous bursts and spray from any angle — the liquid can then be wiped through Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Sheets or a simple cloth. But perhaps the best part is that it works with minimal scrubbing and brings three times more powerful cleaning power to fight grease and gunk. Also, this product is among the U.S. EPA Safer Choice certified products and contains safe ingredients for human health and the environment. 

Pros
  • Works on multiple surfaces
  • Aerosol and bleach-free cleaning
  • Safe for human health and the environment
Cons
  • It may have a strong chemical smell
  • Leaves streaks on stainless steel
4

Method Bathroom Cleaner

– Best Plant-Based Cleaner
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When thinking of places with a sweet smell, bathrooms are never on our minds. At best, we imagine them as rooms with a bleachy, pungent odor. Method aims to address this issue with its eucalyptus and mint-scented bathroom cleaner. They’re a well-known name in the eco-friendly cleaning market and launched this product as a biodegradable formula boasting power green technology. It is cutting-edge green chemistry that deploys the strength of natural ingredients to provide a clean punch, which also lets you get clean surfaces with less scrubbing.

The product comes as a 28-ounce bottle filled with naturally-derived bathroom tub and tile cleaner. It removes mold and mildew and dissolves soap scum to give you a clean finish. Even after cleaning, its lactic acid and decyl glucoside dissolve and prevent soap scum or lime deposits.

Pros
  • Power green technology cuts grime and grease
  • Non-toxic, natural formula
  • Cleans multiple surfaces
Cons
  • Some may not like the scent
  • Could be stronger
5

Fabuloso Bathroom Cleaner

– Most Versatile
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What may look like a jug of grape juice is actually a bathroom cleaner that works wonders on different surfaces. Its neutral pH makes it safe for different materials. This is one of the main reasons it is considered an alternative to kitchen cleaners, bleach sprays, and disinfectant wipes. Its strong cleaning performance against grime and dirt makes sense why the company calls itself Fabuloso!

This bathroom cleaner is available in packs of six 22 fluid-ounce bottles, but a little solution goes a long way. Just mix a quarter cup with a gallon of water, and you will get plenty of solutions to clean your home a few times over. This makes it worth an investment if you often have a big house or come across unconcentrated cleaners. 

The easy-to-pour bottle and quick cleaning allow nearly instant use in bathrooms and on the walls. Meanwhile, its lavender scent helps your bathroom feel clean for up to 24 hours, a claim that’s supported by the manufacturer testing this bathroom cleaner in a controlled setting. So, if you are looking for a formula that provides quick cleaning and a lovely scent, consider this option.

Pros
  • The smell lasts for 24 hours
  • Easy to pour bottle
  • No rinsing needed
Cons
  • Quantity may be misleading
  • The smell can be a little too strong

People Also Asked

Q: Should I use bathroom cleaners every day?

A: Your bathroom is the ultimate home for bacteria — for example, E.coli exists within six feet of the toilet and sink. To prevent germs and viruses from harming you, disinfect the bathroom with cleaners and sanitize the surfaces at least once a week. You can also use the bathroom cleaner twice a week if you have kids in the family or a frequently used bathroom.

Q: What does bathroom cleaner do?

A: As the name suggests, a bathroom cleaner is a solution specially formulated to clean restrooms effectively and quickly. It is made with chemical formulas and ensures an effective killing of germs on the surfaces around the house.

Q: Are bathroom cleaners harmful?

A: Most bathroom cleaners contain sodium hydroxide, bleach, or phosphoric acid. This can irritate and burn your skin, eyes, or lungs (if ingested). If you blend an acidic bathroom cleaner with a cleaner containing chlorine, you ingest lung-damaging chlorine gases.

Q: Is it necessary to wear gloves when using bathroom cleaner?

A: Yes, it’s always recommended to wear gloves when using any type of cleaner as they provide an extra layer of protection against potential skin irritations caused by the chemicals found in many products. If you're using natural cleaners, this isn't as much of a concern, but its always a good idea to protect your skin. 

Q: How often should I use bathroom cleaner?

A: For at home use, it's recommended to clean your bathroom at least once a week to prevent build-up of dirt and grime. If you have a many people using the same bathroom, a mid-week spot clean is usually a good idea.

Bathroom Cleaning
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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