Last Updated on October 3, 2022 by acechapman
Our toilets can actually be the cleanest in bathrooms. According to NSF International’s 2011 study, toothbrush holders can contain the most germs, viruses, and mold. The study found that 27% of toilet seats and 14% of handles had alarmingly high levels of mold, yeast, or germs. This shows how many people don’t clean their toilets properly. Although you can clean and wipe down your toilet frequently, it is best to disinfect it.
It’s not something that anyone enjoys doing. There’s nothing worse than a filthy, germ-infested toilet. These five easy steps can be done weekly to create a bacteria-free bathroom.
How can you clean a toilet properly?
You will need to have the right tools for the job before you can get started. People have a separate set for cleaning that isn’t intended to be used on any other surfaces in the house. There are many bathroom cleaners homeowners can use. However, the following list is based on each product’s instructions. Each product has time limits that allow for proper disinfection of surfaces in your bathroom.
Materials Required
- All-purpose cleaner/disinfectant
- Paper towels
- You can store a bristle scrubbing toothbrush in a separate container in your bathroom.
- A pair of rubber gloves
- One or two Scotchbrite Scrub Sponges
- Any disinfecting wipes you want
- A bottle of Lysol Power Bathroom Cleaning Cleaner
Step-By-Step Process:
Before you begin:
- Take out any obstructions that may be hindering your ability to clean the whole toilet, such as candles, tissue boxes, room deodorizers, and so on.
- Take out all toilet lid covers and rugs made of fabric.
Tank and Flush Handle
- With an all-purpose cleaner/disinfectant, start at the top and spray the tank lid, flush handle, and exterior of the entire tank. Use a paper towel to dry all surfaces.
Toilet Seat
- Spray the seat’s top, then lift the lid to spray the interior of the lid. Spray the area between your seat and the tank as well.
- Use paper towels to wipe all surfaces clean.
Bowl Rim and Pedestal
- With the toilet seat up, spray the rim of the toilet bowl and the outside of the pedestal with cleaner/disinfectant.
- Then, use paper towels to wipe all surfaces clean. (Do not throw away paper towels in the bathroom.
Toilet Bowl
- Flush the toilet before you begin cleaning the bowl.
- Flip the toilet cleaner upside down and point the tip at the underside. Use the cleaner to coat the entire toilet bowl’s underside. Allow the cleaner to sit in the bowl for at least 30 seconds.
- Use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl, including the underside of its rim. If necessary, flush the toilet and then repeat the process.
- Allow the water to drip off the toilet brush before returning it to its holder. Use a paper towel to dry the toilet rim and then close the seat.
How do you disinfect your toilet?
You can clean the rest of your commode while you wait for the toilet bowl cleaner to disinfect properly. You should use a bathroom disinfectant. Use Lysol’s Power Bathroom Cleaner as it clearly indicates how long you need to leave the surface moist to kill common bacteria and viruses.
Only disinfectants can truly kill germs if they are applied to a clean surface that has been free from any scum or debris. You will need to wipe down your toilet with a disinfecting wipe or any other disinfectant product before you apply another layer. To make your disinfectant spray truly effective, you will need to get rid of any bodily fluids like vomit.
- Start by inspecting the outside of your toilet. From the foundation of your toilet to its lid, you can continue working your way up. Forte recommends spraying the toilet and sides thoroughly. Spray the area between the toilet seat & the tank. Then, work your way up to the top of the tank.
- Spray both the exterior and interior sides of the lid. You can reapply spray if needed.
- After you have finished cleaning the toilet seat, place it on the bowl and then lower it down.
- While the disinfectant is drying, you can tackle any areas that may harbor more germs. According to NSF International, the toilet’s flush handle can be dirtier than the seat. Spray it and let it dry for five minutes. You can also use a disinfectant wipe, particularly in between cleaning sessions to rub down the handle before drying it.
After 10 minutes, use a sponge or paper towel to remove any condensation. Don’t forget, if possible, to flush your toilet.
Wrapping up
It isn’t difficult or time-consuming to clean your toilets, but it should be done every week. We can help you if you find it difficult or lack the time.
We have shown you that there are many methods to clean your toilet. Some, like zero-waste bathroom cleaning, go above and beyond for sustainability.
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