How to Maintain a Clean Toilet

Co-authored by David Balkan

Last Updated: January 14, 2022 References

Keeping a toilet clean is essential to your health and the health of your family. Maintaining a clean toilet is not only better for your health but also more pleasant for visitors. While it is not recommended that you use bleach on most toilets because it can erode the finish, there are many other products useful for cleaning and maintaining your toilet. Once clean, it only takes a nominal effort to maintain until you are able to clean again. Here are some suggestions for how to maintain a clean toilet.

If you're looking for advice on keeping the toilet tank clean (rather than the bowl), see How to Clean a Toilet Tank.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Make Sure There Is Good Ventilation

1
There is scientific research stating that chemical agents can harm lungs.^{[1]
X
Research source} Toilet cleaning products often contain aggressive chemicals, so make sure there is good ventilation while working with them. Be careful though, to leave window open while kids are around.

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Cleaning Inside the Bowl

1
Add toilet cleaner or other household cleaner to the inside of the bowl and beneath the rim then allow it to work for a few minutes. There are many products available that cling to the sides of the bowl rather than running quickly down.^{[2]
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Expert Source

David Balkan
Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main
Expert Interview. 29 April 2021.}
- Using a toilet brush, scrub the interior bowl until clean.
2
Sprinkle baking soda all around the sides of the inner bowl for a more natural, non-chemical clean. Allow it to work for approximately 5 minutes then scrub with a toilet brush.^{[3]
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- Baking soda is an inexpensive, non-toxic, naturally-occurring material that is effective in cleaning and whitening without harsh chemicals. This is a safer option for households with dogs who may drink from the bowl or potty-training children who touch the toilet frequently.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Cleaning Outside the Bowl

1
Spray a household cleaner around the outside of the bowl, lid and seat then wipe with a paper towel or clean rag. When finished, wipe the floor around the base of the toilet to catch any over-spray and to prevent slipping.^{[4]
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2
Wipe down the exterior of the bowl, lid and seat with pre-moistened disinfecting wipes.
3
Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the exterior of the bowl, lid and seat with the solution for a more natural, non-chemical clean. Then wipe all the parts clean with a paper towel or clean rag.
- Vinegar is a non-toxic product effective in killing most mold, bacteria and germs. This is a safer option for households with dogs who may drink from the bowl or potty-training children who touch the toilet frequently.

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Maintaining a Clean Bowl

1
Use a solution of 1 part water and 1 part vinegar. Spray the interior and exterior of the bowl daily. Wipe the exterior down, but allow the solution to continue working in the interior bowl until the next flush.^{[5]
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Research source}
2
Keep pre-moistened disinfecting wipes on hand and use them to wipe the exterior of the bowl daily. This will help keep your toilet clean between regular cleanings.
3
Try products that clip to the side of the bowl that clean the water with each flush.
4
Employ the use of tablet products that rest in the toilet tank and clean the water with each flush.
5
Keep the toilet brush clean too. A cleaning tool remains useful only when kept in good and safe condition. Weekly cleaning of the toilet brush is essential for maintaining hygiene and ensuring the brush is doing its job in keeping the toilet properly clean.^{[6]
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Community Q&A
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Question

How do I keep the toilet drains clean?

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Ways to keep your toilet drains clean include ensuring that only toilet paper and human waste products are flushed down the toilet; regular cleaning of the toilet; and regular drain cleaning to remove clogs and build-up. For advice on cleaning the drains, see How to Clean Drains.
Question

Which powder can we use?

Community Answer

Any common brand of cleanser would be fine.
Question

How can I keep the toilet bowl from staining when it's not in use for long periods of time?

Community Answer

Try turning off the supply valve and removing the toilet bowl's water after a full flush. Then, shove a slightly oversized ball into the bottom of the toilet, to keep sewer gases out when the water's gone.