Bathrooms in care homes present one of the highest infection risks. They are used frequently, hold moisture, and provide multiple high-touch points. Without strong routines, these spaces can spread germs quickly among vulnerable residents. That’s why every care home needs a clear, consistent process that staff can follow. This article provides a practical infection control bathroom cleaning checklist for care homes. With the right tools, techniques, and supplies, managers can protect residents, support compliance, and create safer environments.

Step 1: Gather the Right Equipment and Chemicals

Preparation makes cleaning more effective. Staff should always begin with:

  • Colour-coded cloths and mops to prevent cross-contamination (for example, red mop heads for bathrooms, blue for general areas). See our Exel mop heads for a simple, effective solution.

  • Disposable gloves and aprons for staff protection.

  • Approved disinfectants for healthcare settings.

All chemicals should be stored safely, clearly labelled, and used under COSHH rules. For official guidance, review the HSE’s COSHH advice.

Step 2: Ventilate the Bathroom Before Cleaning

Good airflow reduces airborne germs and supports infection control. Open windows if possible, or use extractor fans. Adding ventilation to your infection control bathroom cleaning checklist for care homes ensures chemicals work effectively and spaces dry faster.

Step 3: Remove Waste First

Start by emptying bins and removing any waste. Seal bags tightly and replace liners immediately. This step reduces cross-contamination and keeps the space clear for deeper cleaning.

Step 4: Clean High-Touch Surfaces Thoroughly

Focus on the areas staff and residents touch most:

  • Door handles and grab rails.

  • Toilet flushes and seats.

  • Taps, light switches, and dispensers.

Disinfect these points with the correct cloths and solutions. Always use separate cloths for bathrooms and replace them regularly.

Step 5: Clean Toilets and Basins in Order

Work methodically from clean to dirty. Start with sinks and move to toilets. Use different cloths or mop heads for each fixture. Apply disinfectant, scrub properly, and allow enough contact time so germs are destroyed.

Including this step in your infection control bathroom cleaning checklist for care homes ensures consistent, safe results.

Step 6: Mop Floors Correctly

Floors carry significant infection risk. Use a colour-coded mop system with a fresh disinfectant solution. Work from the far corner back toward the door so you don’t walk over freshly cleaned areas.

For efficiency, many care homes use cleaning carts to keep cloths, mops, and chemicals organised in one place. Adding the right cart to your checklist saves time and keeps infection control products separate.

Step 7: Restock and Inspect the Area

Refill soap dispensers, restock paper towels, and replace toilet rolls. Then check the bathroom thoroughly: no streaks, no odours, and no missed spots. This final inspection step ensures residents always return to a safe, fresh environment.

Step 8: Record and Review Cleaning Tasks

Consistency matters. Use cleaning logs to record each bathroom clean and review them regularly. Logs provide accountability for staff and clear evidence for inspections.

Why a Bathroom Cleaning Checklist Matters

A written infection control bathroom cleaning checklist for care homes ensures:

  • Consistency — staff follow the same routine.

  • Compliance — homes meet infection control requirements.

  • Resident Safety — bathrooms stay hygienic and low-risk.

  • Staff Confidence — training and daily work become clearer.

To support your infection control efforts, we provide a wide range of cleaning supplies and free hygiene assessments. With the right products and expert guidance, your team can maintain safer care environments.

Conclusion

Care home bathrooms need extra attention. They combine high usage, moisture, and many touch points, all of which increase infection risks. However, with a clear infection control bathroom cleaning checklist for care homes, staff can follow a simple, effective process every time.

From mop systems to cleaning carts and professional cleaning supplies, Able supports care homes with the products and advice needed to keep residents safe.