Is your toilet covered in hard water stains or just needs a deep clean? Don’t worry—even if it’s your first time tackling the bathroom, this easy step-by-step guide will walk you through how to clean your toilet like a pro.
From removing stubborn rings to sanitizing every corner, this guide covers everything you need to leave your toilet sparkling and odor-free.
🚽 Step 1: Always Dust the Toilet First
Before using any cleaning sprays, it’s important to remove dust, lint, and hair.
- Use toilet paper, paper towels, or even old Swiffer heads (reserved for toilet use).
- Start from the top and work your way down to the base—this prevents spreading grime.
- Skipping this step can turn hair and dust into a sticky mess when mixed with cleaner.
💡 Pro Tip: Lower the Water Level for Better Cleaning
Fill a bucket and pour water into the bowl to flush it manually. This keeps the bowl empty so cleaner can directly contact stains.
🧴 Step 2: Apply Cleaner to the Bowl and Stains
- Use a trusted product like Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach.
- Apply it in a 360-degree motion around the inside of the bowl.
- Scrub with a stiff-bristled toilet brush to reach under the rim and deep stains.
- Let the cleaner sit for at least 5 minutes to disinfect and break down grime.
Still Seeing Stains?
If stains remain after scrubbing:
- Scrub a second time to loosen buildup.
- Use a pumice stone for hard water rings (ensure surface is wet).
- Consider using a specialized cleaner for rust, limescale, or mineral deposits.
🛑 Septic Tip:
If you have a septic system, double-check that your cleaner is septic-safe.
🧼 Step 3: Disinfect All Toilet Surfaces
(Optional) Remove the Toilet Seat
For deep cleaning, detach the toilet seat to reach hidden areas under the hinges. Most seats pop off by unscrewing or releasing tabs.
Recommended Disinfectants:
- Clorox Cleanup – bleach-based, effective but use with caution.
- Inside Cleaner – bleach-free and deodorizes well, but harder to find.
Spray the entire toilet from top to base, including hinges, lid, and underside. Let the cleaner sit as instructed on the label for proper disinfection.
🧽 Step 4: Wipe Down Using the Two-Towel Method
- First towel: Damp microfiber towel to remove any residue and cleaner.
- Second towel: Dry microfiber to buff the porcelain to a shine.
- Fold towel in fours and rotate sides to avoid reusing dirty sections.
🧹 Step 5: Clean the Base and Floor Around the Toilet
Don’t forget the area around the toilet. Spray disinfectant on the floor and wipe it down thoroughly.
Many bad bathroom odors come from splashes or residue left on the floor and sides of the toilet—especially visible under a black light!
What About the Seat?
If removed, spray it down and wipe it dry before reattaching. Alternatively, clean it in place like the rest of the toilet during light cleans.
🗓️ How Often Should You Clean Your Toilet?
- At least once per week for most homes.
- For larger households, consider cleaning daily to prevent buildup.
✅ Final Step: Clean the Brush!
After scrubbing, always disinfect your toilet brush:
- Spray it thoroughly with a disinfectant.
- Pinch it between the seat and bowl so it can air-dry safely.
👏 You Did It!
Your toilet is now fresh, sanitized, and odor-free. Keep up a regular routine and you’ll never need to dread deep toilet cleaning again.
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