How to Disinfect a Toilet
Getting Started
Cleaning a toilet is probably one of the least glamorous jobs out there but putting it off will just make the problem worse. Trust me, I know.
But before we go through the steps let’s first go over the list of tools that you will need. Yes, you do need tools, or at the very least, you need cleaning supplies.
Tools Needed
First, I would highly recommend getting a pair of gloves. The longer, the better, preferably up to your elbows. And please, for your own sake, don’t get the cheap ones, they’ll disintegrate right in the middle of the dirtiest part.
Second, a plastic bristle brush, so you don’t scratch the seat. Make sure the brush and brush holder are clean, to avoid spreading germs. Rinse as needed.
Third, you will need something to wipe the toilet down with. Either paper towels or a clean rag will suffice.
Obviously, you will need some heavy-duty disinfectant spray such as Bleach or another cleaning liquid.
If you are sensitive to smells such as cleaning supplies then you may want to consider a mask.
A good way to get rid of the toilet odors is Rim Block. Just attach it to the side of the toilet and you’re good to go. I would recommend either keeping one on it at all times or placing it a good thirty minutes before you start cleaning.
An old toothbrush – yes, really. It’s good for getting into those hard-to-reach areas.
Flushable antibacterial wipes can prove really useful, plus you can flush them when you are done with them.
Step 1: Apply Product
Now that we’ve covered the tools let’s get started on the actual cleaning process.
Now, if you don’t want to actually scrub the toilet then apply the cleaning liquid and let it sit while you work on something else.
The easiest thing to do would be to start with the toilet bowl first. You want as little water in it as possible so it would be a good idea to turn the water off at the valve before flushing it.
Now that it’s empty, lift the lid and remove the Rim Block. Put your gloves on and pour your cleaning liquid into the rim of the bowl. Make sure to get plenty onto the sides.
Take your brush and start scrubbing. Make sure you get in all of the cracks and crevices. You are doing this to spread the cleaner to all of the hard-to-reach spots while removing the surface stains.
Afterward, turn the water back on and flush, make sure to continue scrubbing while it’s running. Repeat these steps until the bowl is clean.
Step 2: Clean Toilet Seat
Now it’s time to start on the nastiest part of your toilet – the toilet seat. I would recommend actually taking the seat off as it’s easier to clean. It’s remarkably easy to do so, simply reach beneath the seat and unscrew the plastic screws. Hold onto them but they can easily be replaced at any hardware store.
Use the spray on everything, including the nuts and bolts. Use an old toothbrush to clean the cracks and crevices and to loosen the dirt.
Once you’re done wipe down the toilet with some paper towels or flushable antibacterial wipes and dry off the cleaning solution. Feel free to repeat these steps as many times as necessary.
Step 3: Clean Exterior
Either spray down the tank, lid, base, sides and handle with your cleaner or use the antibacterial wipes.
It’s easiest to start from the top so you don’t constantly have to wipe dirty water. Wipe thoroughly with paper towels and repeat as necessary.
Spray all around the base thoroughly.
Use an old toothbrush to get rid of all the dirt in the cracks and crevices.
Then use paper towels to wipe away all of the dirty water and dry off the solution.
Step 4: Final Steps
Now it’s time to put everything back together. Replace the toilet seat and Rim Block to help prevent odors and limestone buildup.
And there you have it! Your toilet is now clean and sparkling and thoroughly sanitized. But…what about when you’re in a rush and don’t have time to perform all of these steps? Well then, keep on reading!
One great tool is flushable antibacterial wipes. Not only do they sanitize but they clean as well. Use them on the base and sides, seat, lid, and top. Then use paper towels to dry it off.
Now, if you have a really nasty toilet and need to do a deep clean here are a few tips.
Take a sponge or rag dipped in soap and hot water and use it to scrub the outside of the toilet, dislodging any dirt buildup. Then take a towel or paper towels and dry the toilet off.
Spray some toilet cleaner over the outside of the entire toilet and leave it sitting for at least thirty minutes or overnight. This would also be a good time to take some liquid cleaner and go over the inside of the bowl. It also needs to sit for several minutes.
After it is through sitting take a clean toilet brush and scrub it. Rinse the brush and then go back over the toilet bowl if stains are still present.
You will then wipe the toilet down with paper towels and thoroughly dry it. And for a tip on how to clean some toilet stains.
Pour a cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl and swish it around with the scrub brush. Leave it sitting for a minute then add a cup of baking soda and another cup of vinegar.
Let it sit for about five minutes then scrub the toilet before flushing it.
And there you go! From regular cleaning to quick to deep we’ve covered the most essential toilet cleanings. Don’t forget to check back next week for more cleaning tips!
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