Cleaning a toilet tank regularly is an important part of maintaining a healthy and hygienic bathroom. With some simple steps and basic supplies, you can easily clean your toilet tank the right way.
Gather Your Supplies
To clean your toilet tank properly, you will need:
- Rubber gloves
- Old toothbrush or other small scrub brush
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Clean rags or paper towels
Make sure you have all of these supplies ready before starting the cleaning process. Wearing rubber gloves will help protect your hands.
Flush Out the Tank
Before cleaning inside the tank, flush the toilet to empty out as much water as possible. This will allow you to access more surfaces.
Then turn off the water supply valve behind or underneath the toilet. This valve controls water flow into the tank and bowl. Shutting it off prevents the tank from refilling while you clean.
Scrub Inside Surfaces
With the tank water low, dip your scrub brush in baking soda and scrub the inside walls and bottom of the tank. The abrasive baking soda will help remove grime and mineral deposits.
Focus on scrubbing harder to reach corners and crevices where dirt tends to accumulate. Scrub thoroughly but gently so as not to damage any tank components.
Rinse the scrubbed surfaces with clean water to remove any loosened debris. Use a clean rag to wipe down all scrubbed areas.
Clean the Flush Mechanism
The flush mechanism includes parts like the flapper, chain, float, and overflow tube. Use a small scrub brush dipped in vinegar to clean each component. Vinegar will help dissolve hard water stains.
Be gentle when cleaning the flapper to avoid tearing. Make sure to scrub where the chain attaches to the flapper and handle. Rinse all parts with water after scrubbing.
Freshen with Baking Soda
For extra freshness, sprinkle baking soda liberally over all inner tank surfaces. The baking soda will help absorb odors and further remove stains.
Let the baking soda sit for at least a few hours before rinsing it away with clean water. Dump out water and re-rinse until the tank is clear of baking soda.
Replace Tank Water
With the tank fully cleaned, turn the water supply back on to refill the tank. Flush a few times to rinse away any residual cleaning solution.
Add bleach or other toilet cleaning solution to the tank water according to product directions. This will help prevent algae and bacteria growth.
Tips for Proper Toilet Tank Cleaning
- Wear gloves to protect your hands. Toilet tanks can contain harsh chemicals.
- Change rubber gaskets if they appear worn or cracked. Old gaskets can lead to leaks.
- Use a new toilet brush to avoid spreading dirt and germs. Discard old brushes after cleaning.
- Check inside overflow tube for obstructions. Buildup here can impair flushing.
- Inspect float balls for waterlogging or cracks, which affects flush performance.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that could scratch tank surfaces.
- Drain and fully air-dry tank before replacing water if cleaning with bleach.
Cleaning your toilet tank regularly following these steps will help maintain a well-functioning, hygienic toilet and bathroom. Be sure to scrub all surfaces thoroughly and rinse away all cleaning solutions completely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning a Toilet Tank
How often should I clean the toilet tank?
You should clean your toilet tank every 3-6 months for optimal performance and sanitation. Clean more frequently if you notice rings, discoloration, or odor.
What kind of scrub brush is best for cleaning a toilet tank?
Use a small stiff-bristled nylon brush to effectively scrub inside the toilet tank. Avoid metal brushes that could scratch surfaces.
Can I use bleach to clean my toilet tank?
Yes, bleach is an effective sanitizing cleaning agent for toilet tanks. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow all bleach residue to dry before turning on the water supply.
What should I do if my toilet flapper is torn or worn out?
Replace any torn or deteriorated toilet flapper valve. Worn flappers can lead to tank leaks and other toilet problems. Match your replacement flapper size and type.
Why does mineral buildup form in my toilet tank?
Hard water contains minerals that leave calcium and lime deposits on tank surfaces over time. Regular cleaning helps remove this buildup before it impairs function.
How do I remove rust stains from my porcelain toilet tank?
For stubborn rust stains, use a pumice stone or porcelain-safe abrasive cleaning pad. Rub gently to avoid scratching. An oxalic acid-based cleaner also works well.
What causes black mildew stains in a toilet tank?
Mold and mildew growth resulting from moisture buildup causes these black stains. Scrubbing with bleach or hydrogen peroxide solution will remove them.
Why does my toilet tank crack or warp?
Excessive pressure from aggressive scrubbing or over-tightening bolts can cause tanks to crack. Using harsh cleaners can degrade plastic tanks over time as well.
Conclusion
Cleaning your toilet tank thoroughly yet gently on a regular basis is essential for a hygienic, well-functioning toilet. Following the proper steps of emptying the tank, scrubbing all surfaces with baking soda and vinegar, rinsing, and freshening with bleach will keep your tank clean. Be sure to replace any worn parts like flappers and rinse away all cleaning solutions completely after finishing the job. With the right techniques and some elbow grease, you can easily clean a toilet tank the right way.