Cleaning a toilet might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s one of the most important when it comes to maintaining a clean and healthy home. A sparkling toilet not only looks good but also helps prevent the spread of germs and unpleasant odors. Here’s a simple and effective guide to properly clean your toilet from top to bottom.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools and cleaning products on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Rubber gloves
• Toilet bowl cleaner or disinfectant
• Toilet brush
• All-purpose cleaner or disinfectant spray
• Cleaning cloths or paper towels
• Optional: pumice stone for hard water stains

Step 2: Put on Gloves and Prep the Area

Wearing rubber gloves will protect your hands from germs and harsh chemicals. You may also want to open a window or turn on a bathroom fan for ventilation.

Clear any items off the back of the toilet tank and around the base. This will give you full access and prevent anything from falling in during the cleaning process.

Step 3: Clean the Exterior

Start by spraying the outside of the toilet — including the tank, handle, lid, seat, and base — with an all-purpose cleaner or disinfectant spray. Let it sit for a minute or two to break down dirt and kill germs.

Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe down all surfaces. Don’t forget the often-missed areas behind the toilet and under the seat. For extra sanitation, give the flush handle an extra wipe, as it’s a high-touch area.

Step 4: Clean the Toilet Bowl

Apply toilet bowl cleaner inside the bowl, making sure to cover the sides and under the rim. Allow the cleaner to sit for 5–10 minutes (check product instructions) so it can effectively remove stains and bacteria.

Use your toilet brush to scrub the entire bowl thoroughly, focusing on the rim, the water line, and the bottom where buildup tends to occur. If you have hard water stains or stubborn rings, a pumice stone can gently scrub them away without scratching the porcelain.

Step 5: Flush and Rinse

After scrubbing, flush the toilet to rinse away the cleaner and any loosened grime. Rinse your toilet brush with clean water and spray it with disinfectant before storing it back in its holder.

Step 6: Final Touches

Give the seat and lid one more wipe with disinfectant if needed. Return any items you removed from around the toilet. Make sure the toilet paper holder is stocked.

Bonus Tips

• Clean your toilet at least once a week to prevent buildup and odors.
• Keep disinfectant wipes nearby for quick touch-ups.
• If you share a bathroom, consider using a different cloth or wipe for the toilet and the sink to prevent cross-contamination.

By following these steps, your toilet will stay clean, fresh, and more hygienic. Regular maintenance makes the job easier over time and contributes to a healthier home environment for everyone.