From what to use to how to clean the rim, cleaning experts share everything you need to know about making your commode shine.
Cleaning the toilet may not be your favorite household chore, but it’s essential for maintaining a hygienic bathroom. To keep your toilet sparkling and germ-free, you need the right tools, techniques, and a regular cleaning schedule. Here’s a comprehensive guide, straight from cleaning experts, on how to clean your toilet effectively and how often you should do it.
How Often Should You Clean Your Toilet?
The frequency of cleaning your toilet depends on usage, but experts recommend a thorough clean at least once a week for the average household. If you have a larger family or frequent guests, you may want to clean it more often, such as every few days. This ensures that bacteria, mold, and odors don’t build up.
For homes with hard water, mineral stains can appear quickly, so regular upkeep is essential to prevent discoloration. Daily maintenance, such as wiping down the toilet seat and handle, can help maintain a cleaner, fresher toilet between deep cleans.
What You’ll Need to Clean a Toilet:
- Toilet brush
- Toilet cleaner (natural or commercial)
- Disinfecting wipes or cloth
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Rubber gloves
- Microfiber cloth or paper towels
- Optional: pumice stone (for tough stains)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Toilet
1. Prep the Area and Gather Supplies
Before you start, put on rubber gloves to protect your hands from germs and cleaning chemicals. Make sure you have all your supplies ready—this will help the process go more smoothly.
2. Start with the Bowl
The toilet bowl is where grime, bacteria, and stains tend to accumulate. Here’s how to clean it thoroughly:
- Apply toilet cleaner: Start by applying toilet cleaner around the rim of the bowl, allowing it to flow down. Make sure to coat the entire inside surface of the bowl. If you prefer natural alternatives, you can use white vinegar or sprinkle baking soda directly into the bowl.
- Let it sit: Allow the cleaner to sit for at least 10-15 minutes. This gives the product time to break down stains, mineral buildup, and bacteria.
- Scrub the bowl: Use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl thoroughly. Pay extra attention to areas under the rim, where bacteria and grime often hide. Use firm, circular motions to loosen dirt and stains.
- Flush: After scrubbing, flush the toilet to rinse away the cleaner and any debris.
3. Clean the Rim
The rim of the toilet bowl is often overlooked but can harbor hidden grime and bacteria. To clean it effectively:
- Use the toilet brush: While scrubbing the bowl, make sure to angle the brush upward to clean under the rim.
- For stubborn grime: If you notice a buildup, you can spray white vinegar under the rim and scrub with the brush or use a pumice stone to gently remove tough stains.
4. Disinfect the Outside of the Toilet
The exterior of the toilet, including the handle, seat, and base, can collect germs, dust, and dirt. Wiping down these areas regularly is crucial for keeping the entire toilet clean.
- Spray disinfectant or vinegar: Spray a disinfectant cleaner or a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water onto the surfaces, including the handle, tank, seat, and base.
- Wipe with a cloth: Use a microfiber cloth or disinfecting wipes to clean the surfaces. Don’t forget to clean under the seat and hinges, as these spots tend to collect grime.
- Dry and buff: After wiping everything down, dry the surfaces with a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel to prevent water spots and streaks.
5. Tackle Tough Stains
For hard water stains or other tough marks, a pumice stone can help:
- Wet the pumice stone: Always wet the pumice stone before using it to avoid scratching the porcelain.
- Scrub gently: Gently scrub the stained area in circular motions until the stain lifts. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as this could damage the toilet bowl.
- Rinse: Once the stains are gone, flush the toilet to rinse away residue.
How to Keep Your Toilet Clean Longer
To keep your toilet clean and fresh between weekly scrubbing sessions, try these simple tips:
- Use a daily toilet cleaner: There are commercial cleaners available that you can pour or spray into the toilet daily to prevent stains and buildup.
- Wipe down daily: Use disinfecting wipes or a cloth with a vinegar solution to quickly wipe down the toilet seat and handle every day. This will help reduce the spread of germs.
- Address stains immediately: If you notice hard water stains or mineral deposits forming, clean them as soon as possible. The longer they sit, the harder they are to remove.
- Keep the lid down: Closing the toilet lid before flushing helps prevent germs from being dispersed into the air, keeping your bathroom cleaner overall.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your toilet the right way doesn’t take long but makes a huge difference in maintaining a hygienic and fresh-smelling bathroom. By following these expert tips and staying consistent with your cleaning schedule, your toilet will stay sparkling clean with minimal effort.
