How to Properly Clean a Toilet in Six Simple Steps

Cleaning a toilet may not rank as the most pleasurable household chore, but it can be less daunting than it appears. Engaging in weekly cleanings for just 10 minutes can help prevent the accumulation of tough stains and unpleasant messes.

To effectively clean your toilet, remove stains, and achieve a sparkling finish, follow these six simple steps. By adopting this routine, you can maintain a cleaner and more hygienic bathroom environment.

We have collected these tips from Mary Marlowe Leverette, housekeeping and fabric care expert, writer, and consultant of thespruce.com

What You Will Require

Equipment / Tools

• Rubber gloves
• Toilet brush
• Eye protection

Materials

• Toilet cleaner
• All-purpose disinfecting spray cleaner
• Paper towels or cloths

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Toilet

Step 1. Prep the Area

To ensure safety and accessibility, please clear any items stored on top of the tank. Additionally, make sure your supplies are readily available for easy access.

Step 2. Flush and Add Bowl Cleaner

To effectively clean your toilet, start by flushing it with the lid closed to wet the bowl. Next, while wearing rubber gloves for protection, apply the toilet bowl cleaner along the rim of the bowl. This method ensures that the cleaner coats the entire surface for optimal results.

Step 3. Scrub the Toilet Bowl

To effectively clean a toilet, start by scrubbing under the bowl rim using a toilet brush. This area can accumulate debris that may hinder the water jets, which might require extra attention to ensure they function properly and provide sufficient water for flushing.

Next, focus on scrubbing the entire bowl, paying particular attention to the drain hole at the bottom to eliminate any stains. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, flush the toilet with the lid closed to maintain hygiene and prevent any splashes.

Step 4: Clean the Toilet Seat

To effectively clean the toilet seat, start by raising the seat and applying a disinfecting bathroom cleaner to the top and bottom of the seat, the inside of the lid, and the rim of the toilet. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes to ensure it effectively kills germs. After this waiting period, wipe down these areas with a clean cloth. Remember to also clean the outside of the lid. To finish, use a clean, damp cloth or paper towel to wipe the seat, ensuring that all traces of bleach or chemicals are removed from the surface before use.

Step 5: Clean the Exterior

To effectively clean the exterior of a toilet, it’s important to use a disinfecting bathroom cleaner. Begin the process by spraying the cleaner on the tank, handle, and the edges of the bowl, starting from the top. Allow the product to sit for a few minutes to ensure it works effectively. Next, use a cloth or paper towel to wipe down these surfaces thoroughly.

When cleaning the outside of the bowl, start with the sides and front, then move on to the bottom edges where the toilet meets the floor to ensure a comprehensive clean.

Step 6: Don’t Forget the Toilet Brush

To complete your cleaning process, ensure that you tidy up any drips of cleaner or water that may have spilled onto the floor. It’s also important to clean the toilet brush and its holder to maintain hygiene. Finally, remember to return any items that you moved prior to starting your cleaning task to their original positions.

Tip: To maintain cleanliness in your bathroom, it is advisable to clean the toilet before mopping the floor. This ensures that any splashes or mess from the toilet are addressed, resulting in a more hygienic environment.

How to Eliminate Certain Stains

• Mineral Deposits: To effectively address mineral deposits along the waterline of your toilet bowl, consider pouring 1 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of vinegar into the bowl. Allow this mixture to work for about 15 minutes before gently scrubbing the bowl with a toilet brush.
• Rust Stains: For rust stains, hydrogen peroxide can be a highly effective solution due to its strong oxidizing properties. You might pour 1 cup of fresh hydrogen peroxide into the toilet bowl and permit it to sit for 20-30 minutes before scrubbing away the stains.
• Mold and Mildew: To combat mold and mildew, borax—a natural fungicide—can serve as a reliable option. It’s recommended to sprinkle a generous amount of borax powder into the toilet bowl, using a toilet brush to evenly distribute it over any affected areas. Allow it to rest overnight, and then scrub and flush. Additionally, borax can be utilized for cleaning mold and mildew from the exterior surfaces of the toilet tank and bowl.

Further Helpful Tips about Toilet Cleaning

• To maintain the longevity and cleanliness of your toilet, it’s advisable to clean the inside of the tank at least twice a year. This helps to eliminate any fungus, bacteria, and mineral deposits that could potentially lead to stains or wear on the components.
• When using disinfectant wipes for the exterior, it may be beneficial to use several wipes to ensure that the surface remains moist for a minimum of five minutes.
• If you encounter stubborn stains in the toilet bowl, additional treatment with either a homemade solution or a commercial cleaner like Lime-Away or Rust-Away may be required.
• For your safety, please consider wearing eye protection, as certain toilet bowl cleaners contain bleach and other chemicals that could irritate or harm your eyes. Additionally, using protective rubber or latex gloves can help minimize contact with chemicals and harmful bacteria.
• Lastly, to reduce the risk of splattering or splashing while flushing, it’s recommended to keep the seat lid down.