Cleaning the toilet may not be glamorous, but when done right, it can leave your bathroom looking—and feeling—immaculate. Whether you're dealing with stubborn stains, hard water build-up, or just aiming for a pristine sparkle, here’s how to deep clean your toilet like a professional and make the job a lot less daunting.
Before diving into cleaning, you'll need the right tools. Professional cleaners always come equipped with rubber gloves, disinfectant spray, a sturdy toilet brush, and a microfiber cloth. Don’t forget a mask if you’re sensitive to strong smells, especially when using powerful cleaning solutions. Also, clear the area around the toilet to give yourself space to move—nobody wants to knock over their toiletries mid-clean!
The toilet bowl is ground zero for germs and grime, so it needs a thorough scrubbing. Begin by flushing the toilet to wet the bowl. Next, apply a strong cleaning solution (like a toilet-specific cleaner or a homemade mix of vinegar and baking soda) around the rim, letting it slowly drip down. For deep cleaning, let the solution sit for about 10 minutes to break down any stains or deposits before scrubbing with a toilet brush.
Remember to focus on the hidden spots under the rim where bacteria and dirt love to hide.
If you’ve got hard water stains or rust rings, the battle intensifies. A simple trick is to use baking soda and vinegar. Sprinkle baking soda around the bowl and pour vinegar over it, allowing the mixture to fizz. Scrub the affected areas with a brush, and if stains remain, let the mixture sit overnight.
For extreme cases, consider using a pumice stone to gently scrub the ring without damaging the porcelain.
The outside of the toilet can be just as grimy, especially around the base and handle, which get touched a lot. Use a disinfectant wipe or spray and clean every surface—start with the tank, lid, seat, and hinges, working your way down to the base.
Pay special attention to the handle, as it’s one of the most germ-ridden parts.
Most people forget about the toilet tank, but cleaning it a couple of times a year can prevent mold and mineral buildup. Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to drain the tank. Then, fill it with a solution of vinegar and water, and let it sit for a few hours.
Afterward, scrub the inside of the tank with a brush, then flush several times to rinse everything out. This ensures your toilet runs smoothly and stays fresh longer.
Once your toilet is sparkling clean, give it one final wipe-down with disinfectant wipes. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to give the room a fresh, pleasant scent.
For an extra layer of protection, spray the toilet with a long-lasting disinfectant. Professionals recommend weekly maintenance cleanings to keep your deep clean lasting longer.
Now that you know how to deep clean a toilet like a pro, what are your favorite cleaning tips or tricks? Let us know! Maybe there’s a homemade cleaner you swear by or a clever shortcut to cut down on cleaning time.
We’d love to hear your thoughts!
