Keeping your toilet clean is essential for maintaining a healthy home. Toilets can harbor germs, bacteria, and unpleasant odors if not cleaned regularly. A well-cleaned toilet not only looks better but also reduces the spread of illness. Let’s walk through the right way to clean your toilet—step by step.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather your cleaning tools and products. Having everything ready helps you clean more efficiently.

Supplies:

Toilet bowl cleaner or disinfectant
Toilet brush
Rubber gloves
Disinfectant spray or wipes
Paper towels or cleaning cloths
Scrub brush or old toothbrush
White vinegar (optional)
Baking soda (optional)

Step 1: Put On Protective Gloves

Always wear rubber gloves when cleaning the toilet. This protects your hands from germs and harsh chemicals. If you have a mask, consider wearing it to reduce exposure to cleaning fumes.

Step 2: Apply Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Lift the toilet seat. Squirt the toilet bowl cleaner under the rim of the bowl. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the cleaner time to break down stains and kill bacteria.

If you prefer a natural solution, pour 1 cup of vinegar followed by ½ cup of baking soda into the bowl. Let it fizz for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Clean the Exterior

While the cleaner works inside the bowl, clean the outer surfaces of the toilet. Start at the top and move downward to avoid spreading germs.

Wipe the toilet handle, tank, lid, and seat with disinfectant spray or wipes. Then move down to the base. Use a cloth or paper towel for each section, and throw away or change them as needed.

Step 4: Scrub the Bowl

Now that the cleaner has had time to work, scrub the inside of the toilet with a toilet brush. Focus on the sides and under the rim, where buildup tends to occur. Don’t forget the bottom of the bowl and the drain hole.

Flush the toilet while scrubbing to rinse the brush and wash away residue.

Step 5: Clean Hard-to-Reach Areas

Use an old toothbrush or a small scrub brush to clean tight spots, like the hinges behind the toilet seat or the area where the toilet meets the floor. These areas often collect dust, hair, and grime.

Spray them with disinfectant and scrub gently. Wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel.

Step 6: Disinfect the Brush

After using the toilet brush, rinse it with clean water and disinfect it. Spray the bristles with disinfectant or soak it in a bleach solution for at least 10 minutes. Let it air dry before storing it.

Step 7: Wash Your Hands

Once you’ve finished cleaning, remove your gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Even when wearing gloves, it’s important to wash away any lingering germs.

Tips for Ongoing Toilet Maintenance

Clean at least once a week. This keeps bacteria and odors under control.
Keep a toilet brush nearby. That way, you can quickly scrub away any spots between deep cleans.
Wipe the seat daily. Especially if multiple people use the bathroom.
Check for leaks. A clean toilet also means a well-functioning one. Leaks can lead to mold and water damage.