Ready to tackle the dirt and grime in your toilet? You’ll need a few essential tools to make the job easier and more efficient.
Not sure what to prepare? Here are the must-have toilet cleaning tools and their functions!
Toilet brush
The first essential item is a toilet brush. Its main function is to scrub the inside of the toilet bowl, which is prone to stains and mineral buildup from waste or dried water.
This tool makes it easier to clean off stubborn marks. IKEA offers various toilet brushes designed for cleaning toilets, removing mineral deposits, and even scrubbing bathtubs.
Some IKEA brushes come with a stand to keep them upright and organized. You can also replace the brush head when it becomes dirty or worn out.
If you need a brush that reaches deep into corners or the inner bowl, IKEA offers ergonomically designed corner brushes.
These ergonomic designs ensure your hand stays comfortable while cleaning floors, bowl stains, or water marks on the sink.
Used regularly, a toilet brush helps prevent stubborn buildup that causes yellow stains and foul smells.
Toilet cleaning liquid
Water alone isn’t enough to properly clean your toilet. As part of your toilet cleaning kit, you’ll need a toilet cleaner or disinfectant, especially to remove long-standing stains.
These products contain active ingredients that kill germs and remove scale. Many of them are formulated with pleasant fragrances to eliminate bad odors.
Toilet cleaning liquids are usually categorized by their active ingredients:
Acid-based toilet cleaners
Acid-based toilet cleaners (like hydrochloric or sulfuric acid) are highly effective at removing stains, hard water deposits, and yellow marks from both squat and sitting toilets quickly.
Cleaners with chlorine or bleach
Toilet cleaners containing chlorine or bleach help brighten surfaces and are suitable for light, regular cleaning.
However, avoid mixing these with acid-based products, as doing so can release toxic gases.
Enzyme-based cleaners
Made with natural ingredients, enzyme-based toilet cleaners are eco-friendly. They are great for breaking down organic stains such as urine or soap residue.
Although the cleaning process may take longer, these products are reliable when used regularly.
Natural cleaning solutions
Want to clean your toilet without harsh chemicals? Use natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, citrus extracts, or essential oils.
These are safe for children and pets, and since they’re non-corrosive, they won’t damage toilet surfaces.
Gloves and protective gear
Cleaning the toilet means coming into contact with dirt and chemicals. That’s why gloves, such as IKEA’s latex gloves, are a must.
Gloves protect your skin from irritation or allergic reactions caused by cleaning agents.
You can also use additional protective items like masks or aprons, especially if you have sensitive skin. This way, you can clean your toilet safely and comfortably.
Bucket and spray bottle
Lastly, use a bucket and spray bottle from IKEA as supporting tools. Buckets are useful for holding water or mixing cleaning solutions.
Meanwhile, spray bottles allow you to target specific areas like toilet seats, door handles, or the outer toilet bowl.
Steps to thoroughly clean your toilet
A clean toilet isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about health and comfort. Cleaning without a proper system may leave harmful germs behind.
That’s why it’s important to follow a step-by-step cleaning process to ensure every corner is thoroughly cleaned. Use the following guide to make your toilet cleaning more efficient and effective!
An efficient cleaning sequence
Toilet cleaning should be done from top to bottom to prevent dirt from dripping onto already-cleaned areas. Here’s a recommended sequence:
1. Start with the tank and lid
Wipe the top of the tank, flush button, and lid with a cloth or disinfectant wipe. These are high-touch areas that are often overlooked.
2. Clean the toilet seat
Spray cleaning solution on the seat and its underside. Wipe with a clean cloth or tissue, and rinse if necessary. This is a high-contact area, so be extra thorough.
3. Scrub the inner bowl
Pour toilet cleaner into the bowl, focusing under the rim. Scrub all surfaces with a toilet brush, let sit for a few minutes, then flush.
4. Wipe the exterior of the toilet
Use a different cloth to clean the toilet’s exterior, including its base and hidden corners.
5. Mop the toilet floor
Finally, mop the floor with floor cleaner to remove any leftover dirt or bacteria-laden water.
Ideal cleaning frequency
You don’t have to deep-clean your toilet every day. But a consistent schedule can keep it clean without being overwhelming:
By sticking to this routine, your toilet will remain fresh, clean, and ready for use at any time.
Extra tips to keep your toilet clean and fresh
Still feel like something’s missing even after regular cleaning? The problem may not be dirt, but rather odor and inconsistent hygiene habits among household members.
To take it up a notch, try the following simple tricks that’ll keep your toilet smelling fresh and looking spotless all day!
Use aromatherapy or odor absorbers
A clean toilet feels great, but it’s even better with a calming fragrance. Try adding room fresheners.
For example, IKEA’s potpourri (a blend of dried flowers and scents in a bowl) offers options like herbal, berry, or jasmine scents that create a relaxing atmosphere.
They not only mask unpleasant odors but also make every toilet visit more pleasant.
Encourage clean habits among all family members
Toilet cleanliness isn’t a one-person job. To keep it clean throughout the day, involve everyone in the household by building clean habits such as:
These small habits help everyone contribute to a consistently clean and fragrant toilet, without requiring extra effort.
Also read: Freshen up in a bright and well-organised bathroom
Keep your bathroom clean with the right toilet cleaners!
