How to Clean a Bathroom Vanity and Medicine Cabinet — Toronto Home Guide

Bathroom vanities accumulate a specific mix of grime: toothpaste splatters on the countertop, hairspray residue on the mirror and doors, hand soap scum on the faucet and basin, and expired or cluttered products inside the cabinet. A thorough monthly clean covers all of these areas.

Countertop

1. Remove all items from the countertop — soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, etc.
2. Wipe with a cloth dampened in warm water and a drop of dish soap
3. For toothpaste splatters: let a damp cloth sit on the splatter for 30 seconds to soften before wiping — dried toothpaste smears if scraped dry
4. For the area around the faucet base: use an old toothbrush with the soapy solution to clean the crevice where mineral deposits and soap scum accumulate
5. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry
6. Wipe each item before returning it to the counter

Vanity Cabinet Interior

1. Remove all contents — this is a good time to check for expired products
2. Wipe the inside surfaces with a cloth dampened in a diluted white vinegar solution — vanity cabinets under sinks are prone to moisture and mould from pipe leaks and humidity
3. Check under the sink pipes for any moisture, staining, or mould — early detection prevents major damage
4. Allow to air dry with the cabinet door open before returning items
5. Use drawer liners or a small tray to organize products and make future cleaning easier

Vanity Cabinet Doors and Exterior

1. Wipe doors with a cloth dampened in soapy water
2. For hairspray residue (the sticky film common on bathroom cabinet doors): rubbing alcohol on a cloth cuts through it effectively
3. Wipe dry to prevent water marks on painted or laminate surfaces

Medicine Cabinet Mirror

1. Spray the mirror with a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution, or wipe with a cloth dampened in rubbing alcohol
2. Wipe clean with a dry microfibre cloth in straight lines to avoid streaks
3. Clean the mirror frame and cabinet edges with a damp cloth