How to clean a toilet
ALTHOUGH it's not usually an enjoyable task cleaning your toilet is one chore you shouldn't slack on.
Luckily it's pretty simple to get done, here's the right way to clean a toilet using four simple steps.
How do you clean a toilet?
Cleaning your toilet doesn't sound like fun, but there are loads of different approaches, including ones that don't use bleach.
But if you haven't got time to go through all the options or consult a cleaning expert on TikTok, we've got you covered.
In order to give your toilet a proper clean, you need disinfectant spray, bleach, toilet cleaner, gloves, and something to wipe the surfaces down with like a disinfectant wipe.
You may need a sponge with a rough side for tougher, dried-on bits.
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1. Start with the toilet cleaner
This is something you can apply and leave to do its work while doing other things.
First, flush the toilet so the bowl is covered in water.
Then squirt the cleaner on at the rim, allowing it to drip down.
Give it a few minutes to work, this may differ from product to product, so ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions.
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You can move on to the outside while you wait.
2. Clean the outside and return to the bowl
It's best to clean upwards from the base of the toilet.
Start by giving it a thorough spray, ensuring you get the hard-to-reach areas like the gap between the tank and the toilet seat.
Carry on cleaning upwards then wipe down the top of the cistern.
After the bowl's been given time to soak, use a toilet brush to scrub it all over, including the bottom inside the water.
Then close the lid and flush it so the chemicals in the water don't spray everywhere.
You may need to do this more than once if there are tough stains.
You can use white vinegar and baking soda to get rid of stains inside and around your toilet.
3. Don't forget both sides of the lid
Ensure you spray and wipe down both sides of the lid.
The side that faces toward you is blasted with toilet water whenever the toilet is flushed and needs a good wipe down.
You can also use a non-bleach spray, which you can apply and simply scrub off after giving it a minute to work its magic.
Always read the label and follow the instructions.
4. Wipe the seat on both sides
The seat will need wiping on both sides too.
Lift the seat and clean both sides as you did with the lid, making sure to wipe thoroughly in the small gaps and the hinges.
Stains and bacteria can easily gather in these crannies, so make sure they're given plenty of attention.
You can apply your trusty non-bleach spray again here: use an old toothbrush to scrub around the hinges, and wipe it off after the suggested time.
How do you unclog a toilet?
A blocked toilet can be a nightmare, especially if you really need to use it.
A few thrusts on a plunger may do the trick, but what if you don't have one, or it doesn't work?
Thankfully, we have a few tips on how to fix this issue through alternative means.
Unblock a toilet with washing up liquid
This method is quick and easy.
Simply pour half a mug of it into the toilet and let it sit for 20 minutes or so.
Then add two liters of hot water and give it another five to ten minutes before flushing.
It should break down the toilet paper and help lubricate the drain so that the material stuck in the pipe can be flushed away.
Unblock a toilet with hot water
No washing up liquid? No problem. You can also try using just hot water.
Fill a bucket and pour it quickly into the bowl to flush out the blockage.
Ensure the water isn't boiling as this can lead to a cracked toilet bowl.
Give it a flush after a minute or two and see if the issue has been resolved.
Unblock a toilet with baking soda
Baking soda is a great DIY cleaning tool throughout the house and can be pretty effective for unblocking your loo too.
Spread a cup of baking soda evenly inside the bowl of the toilet.
Slowly pour two cups of vinegar over the soda and allow it to fizz.
This can help break down the blockage.
Leave it for two hours before flushing to unblock it.
Unblock a toilet with a DIY plumber's snake
Plumber's snakes are used by professionals to unblock pipes, but if you're not able to get your hands on one, there's a DIY alternative.
Take a wire clothes hanger and bend it into a straight line. Once it's straight, put it into the water and push at the blockage till it's cleared.
Flush the toilet twice once it has started to drain out to completely clear the clog.
Use a water bottle to create water pressure
If you don't have a plunger you can use a plastic bottle instead.
Simply cut off the bottom of a plastic bottle and hold on the top half with the lid still on.
Lower the open end of it into the bowl and thrust it up and down as you would with a conventional plunger.
It has to remain submerged in order to create water pressure.
If successful, it should create a vacuum that will push the blocked material through the pipe to the main drain.
How to clean a toilet brush?
It's easy to forget about your toilet brush, but it can get pretty filthy over time.
To clean the brush, simply fill a bucket with hot water and add two or three bleach capsules (always follow the advice on the bottle when doing this).
Leave the brush in there to soak for an hour, and then take it out and rinse using hot water.
You can put it back on hold once it's dry.
You can also clean the holder while you're waiting for the brush to dry.
To do so, simply use a disinfectant spray all over it, including the underside, or soak it in bleach water as you did with the brush.
Allow it to drain above the toilet for 10 minutes or so and then rinse it with boiling water.
Then you need only dry the toilet bowl down with tissue or a cloth, replace the brush and you're done!
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You can also find a home hack for cleaning your brush that costs just 60p.
Cleaning hacks and tips
Here are some tips to help you clean your home like a pro:
- How to clean your washing machine in a few easy steps
- Keep on top of cleaning your oven regularly
- Clean your shower to ensure it's always sparkling
- How to clean your microwave using cheap household items
- Here's how to get rid of that nasty limescale in your kettle
- You're cleaning your carpet all wrong - here's how to get it spotless again in no time
- Unblock a toilet without a plunger
- Clean your fabric or leather sofa in a few easy steps
- If you haven't cleaned your mattress in ages, here's how
- Steps to cleaning your dishwasher to leave it looking brand new
- This is how to clean mirrors and windows without streaking
- Keep your toilet clean in four easy steps
- Give your TV screen a once-over
- Did you know your Venetian, Roman, vertical, or roller blinds also need cleaning?
- Deep-clean your fridge in five simple steps
- Your bathroom deserves the best, that's why you should check out Sun Selects' roundup of the best shower cleaners.