I don’t know about you, but my bathroom cabinets seem to collect everything — from stray toothpaste caps to half-empty shampoo bottles and forgotten face creams. It’s easy for things to pile up, especially in a humid space like the bathroom. Over time, the inside of those cabinets can get sticky, dusty, and even a little musty. That’s when a good deep clean makes all the difference.
Cleaning bathroom cabinets isn’t just about appearances — it helps keep your products organized, prevents mold, and even extends the life of the cabinetry. Below, I’ll walk you through a simple step-by-step process to make your cabinets sparkle again, without turning it into an all-day project.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you begin cleaning, it helps to have everything on hand. I like to keep my cleaning supplies simple and gentle. You’ll need:
- Microfiber cloths or soft rags
- Mild dish soap or vinegar
- Warm water
- Baking soda (for tougher spots)
- Toothbrush or small scrub brush
- Sponge
- Gloves
- Bucket or spray bottle
- Vacuum or handheld duster
I prefer using natural cleaners — a mixture of vinegar and warm water works wonders for disinfecting without harsh fumes. If your cabinets are wood, go easy on the moisture. The key is a damp cloth, not a dripping one.
Step 1: Empty the Cabinets
Start by taking everything out of the cabinets. It might feel like a chore, but trust me, this step makes the rest so much easier.
As you remove items, use this chance to do a quick inventory. Check expiration dates, toss anything you no longer use, and group similar products together — hair care, skincare, cleaning products, first aid, etc. I usually place everything on a towel or tray on the counter so the area stays neat as I work.
Step 2: Dust and Vacuum the Interior
Once the cabinets are empty, you’ll probably notice a fine layer of dust or even strands of hair lurking in the corners. A quick dry clean before introducing moisture prevents turning that dust into a muddy mess.
Use a handheld vacuum or microfiber cloth to remove debris. Don’t forget the crevices around the hinges and corners where buildup loves to hide. It’s surprising how much cleaner it already looks after this simple step.
Step 3: Clean with a Mild Solution
Now it’s time to get those surfaces truly clean. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap or vinegar with warm water. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution, wring it out well, and wipe down all surfaces — shelves, cabinet sides, doors, and even the undersides.
For tight spots, grab an old toothbrush or cotton swab. I usually use circular motions to lift grime without scratching the finish. If your cabinets are wood, remember to follow the grain and keep the cloth only slightly damp. The goal is to clean, not saturate.
Step 4: Treat Stubborn Stains and Mold
Sometimes, soap spills or old toothpaste residue refuse to budge. For these, make a gentle paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to the spot, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub lightly with a soft brush.
If you notice mold or mildew, especially in humid bathrooms, spray the area with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Let it sit for ten minutes before wiping clean. Just don’t mix cleaning agents — especially anything with bleach — as that can be dangerous. Once the stains are gone, rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Step 5: Wipe Dry and Air Out
Moisture is the enemy of clean cabinets, especially wooden ones. Once you’re done cleaning, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe every surface thoroughly.
I like to leave the cabinet doors open for at least half an hour to air out. This ensures every nook dries properly and prevents that damp smell from developing. You can even place a small bowl of baking soda inside to absorb leftover humidity.
Step 6: Clean and Organize Cabinet Contents
Before you put everything back, give your items a quick wipe-down. Hair products, lotions, and cleaners can leak or collect residue over time. Clean bottles not only look better but also prevent sticky shelves later on.
Check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime. Then, organize what’s left. I’m a big fan of using baskets, drawer dividers, or lazy Susans to keep similar items together. This small step saves so much time in the mornings when you’re rushing to get ready.
Step 7: Polish the Exterior
The outside of your cabinets deserves some love too. Spray a bit of all-purpose cleaner or polish onto a cloth (never directly on the cabinet) and wipe down the doors, handles, and knobs.
For wooden cabinets, use a wood polish to bring back that beautiful shine. If your handles are metal or stainless steel, a quick buff will make them gleam again. You’ll be amazed how much fresher the entire bathroom feels after this final touch.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Cabinets Clean Longer
- Wipe up spills right away instead of letting them sit.
- Do a quick declutter every month to keep things manageable.
- Use shelf liners to protect surfaces from leaks or scratches.
- Improve bathroom ventilation — even a small fan can help reduce moisture buildup.
- Add silica gel packets or moisture absorbers if humidity is a constant issue.
A few simple habits go a long way toward keeping your cabinets looking new.
Final Thoughts
A clean bathroom cabinet does more than just look nice — it makes your mornings smoother and your space more enjoyable. Taking an hour every few months to do a deep clean saves you from sticky shelves, moldy corners, and clutter chaos later on.
Each time I finish cleaning mine, I can’t help but feel a little sense of calm when I open those neatly organized doors. It’s one of those small wins that truly brightens your day — and keeps your bathroom feeling like the peaceful retreat it should be.
