8 Toilet Cleaning Hacks That Stay-at-Home Moms Will Love

Hey there! You’ve come to the perfect place to learn 8 toilet cleaning hacks that mom’s will love!

We know that managing a household can be a juggling act, and one task that often feels like a never-ending challenge is keeping the bathroom spick and span.

But hang in there! In this article, we’re going to share some practical toilet cleaning hacks that can make your life easier. These aren’t the kind of tricks that require fancy gadgets or hours of scrubbing.

These are tried-and-true, no-nonsense toilet cleaning hacks that will fit perfectly into your busy schedule.

So, if you’re looking for effective ways to keep your bathroom clean without breaking a sweat, read on. We’ve got you covered!

What You’ll Learn

We’ll learn the benefits of using toilet cleaning hacks as well as explore 8 practical and efficient methods that will revolutionize your toilet cleaning routine.

From quick tricks to affordable, eco-friendly cleaning products, you’ll discover some cool strategies to tackle those pesky stains.

8 Simple Toilet Cleaning Hacks

a small glass jar with a cork top partially  filled with baking soda and another jar filled with vinegar on a wooden table.

Toilet Cleaning Hack #1: Vinegar & Baking Soda 

This method of toilet cleaning combines the cleaning power of baking soda, and the natural cleaning and deodorizing properties of white vinegar.

It effectively removes stains, disinfects, and leaves your toilet smelling fresh. You can use this approach as part of your regular toilet cleaning routine or for a deeper cleaning when needed.

Supplies Needed:

  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves

1. Flush and Empty the Bowl:

  • Begin by flushing the toilet to empty the bowl as much as possible.

2. Sprinkle Baking Soda:

  • Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the toilet bowl, particularly targeting stained or soiled areas.

3. Apply White Vinegar:

  • Pour white vinegar over the baking soda. You’ll notice a fizzy reaction; this is normal and helps with cleaning.

4. Let It Sit:

  • Allow the baking soda and vinegar mixture to sit in the toilet bowl for at least 15-30 minutes. This gives it time to break down stains, disinfect, and deodorize.

5. Scrub Gently:

  • After the soaking period, use a toilet brush to gently scrub the toilet bowl, making sure to reach stained areas.

6. Flush:

  • Finally, flush the toilet to rinse away the baking soda and vinegar mixture.
a classic glass bottle of coca cola standing on a white kitchen counter

Toilet Cleaning Hack # 2: Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola can be effective at removing stains and mineral deposits in the toilet bowl due to its acidic nature.

This is particularly useful for routine cleaning and stain removal. You can use it as part of your regular toilet cleaning routine or as needed to help maintain a clean toilet.

Supplies Needed:

  • A can or bottle of Coca-Cola (regular, not diet or sugar-free)
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves

1. Flush and Empty the Bowl:

  • Begin by flushing the toilet to empty the bowl as much as possible.

2. Pour Coca-Cola:

  • Open a can or bottle of Coca-Cola and pour it into the toilet bowl. Make sure to cover the stained or soiled areas.

3. Let It Sit:

  • Allow the Coca-Cola to sit in the toilet bowl for at least 30 minutes, or longer if the stains are particularly stubborn. The phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola helps break down stains.

4. Scrub Gently:

  • After the soaking period, use a toilet brush to gently scrub the bowl, paying extra attention to stained areas.

5. Flush:

  • Finally, flush the toilet to rinse away the Coca-Cola.
two blue denture cleaning tablets

Toilet Cleaning Hack #3: Denture Tablets 

Denture tablets contain cleaning agents that can effectively remove stains and disinfect the toilet bowl. This method is particularly useful for routine cleaning and stain removal.

Supplies Needed:

  • Denture cleaning tablets (preferably effervescent tablets)
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves

1. Drop the Denture Tablet:

  • Drop one denture cleaning tablet into the toilet bowl.

2. Let It Fizz:

  • Allow the tablet to fizz and dissolve in the water. This usually takes a few minutes.

3. Scrub Gently:

  • After the tablet has dissolved, use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl. Pay attention to stained or soiled areas.

4. Let It Sit:

  • Leave the solution in the toilet bowl for at least 15-30 minutes. This gives it time to break down stains and disinfect.

5. Scrub Again:

  • After the soaking period, scrub the toilet bowl once more with the toilet brush.

6. Flush:

  • Finally, flush the toilet to rinse away the denture tablet solution.
a white bowl of 2 half lemons, one whole lemon, and another small glass bowl of borax cleaner used for toilet cleaning hacks.

Toilet Cleaning Hack #4: Borax & Lemon Juice 

This method combines the cleaning power of borax and the natural cleaning and deodorizing properties of lemon juice. It effectively removes stains, disinfects, and leaves your toilet smelling fresh.

Supplies Needed:

  • Borax (also known as sodium borate)
  • Lemon juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves

1. Flush and Empty the Bowl:

  • Begin by flushing the toilet to empty the bowl as much as possible.

2. Sprinkle Borax:

  • Sprinkle a cup of borax into the toilet bowl, distributing it evenly around the inside of the bowl.

3. Squeeze Lemon Juice:

  • Squeeze the juice of one or two lemons directly into the toilet bowl over the borax. Lemon juice has natural cleaning and deodorizing properties.

4. Scrub Gently:

  • Use a toilet brush to gently scrub the toilet bowl, ensuring that the borax and lemon juice mixture is spread evenly and that stained areas are thoroughly scrubbed.

5. Let It Sit:

  • Allow the borax and lemon juice mixture to sit in the toilet bowl for at least 15-30 minutes. This gives it time to break down stains, disinfect, and deodorize.

6. Scrub Again:

  • After the soaking period, scrub the toilet bowl once more with the toilet brush.

7. Flush:

  • Finally, flush the toilet to rinse away the borax and lemon juice mixture.
a pumice stone with a rope handle used for toilet cleaning hacks

Toilet Cleaning Hack #5: Pumice Stone

Using a pumice stone is an effective method for dealing with mineral deposits and stubborn stains in your toilet bowl.

However, it’s important to use it carefully to avoid scratching the porcelain surface. Always opt for pumice stones specifically designed for cleaning toilets to minimize the risk of damage.

Supplies Needed:

  • Pumice stone (specifically designed for cleaning toilets)
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves
  1. Wet the Pumice Stone:
    • Thoroughly wet the pumice stone. You can do this by holding it under running water until it’s saturated.
  2. Prepare the Toilet:
    • Flush the toilet to wet the inside of the bowl. This helps prevent scratching of the porcelain surface.
  3. Scrub Gently:
    • Use the wet pumice stone to gently scrub the stained areas in the toilet bowl. Apply light pressure to avoid scratching the porcelain.
  4. Rinse the Stone:
    • Periodically rinse the pumice stone in the toilet water to remove any residue it picks up.
  5. Continue Scrubbing:
    • Continue to scrub the stained areas until the stains are gone or significantly reduced. Be patient, as it may take some time, especially for tough stains.
  6. Flush and Rinse:
    • Once you’ve removed the stains, flush the toilet to rinse away any remaining debris or pumice stone particles.
  7. Clean the Pumice Stone:
    • After use, rinse the pumice stone thoroughly and allow it to air dry. Store it in a dry place for future use.
a small brown 3% hydrogen peroxide bottle with a white cap

Toilet Cleaning Hack #6: Hydrogen Peroxide 3%

Hydrogen peroxide is an effective disinfectant and stain remover. It’s particularly useful for removing mold and mildew stains, as well as general grime in the toilet bowl.

This method can be used as part of your regular toilet cleaning routine or for more intensive cleaning when needed.

Supplies Needed:

  • Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution, commonly found in most households)
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves
  1. Flush and Empty the Bowl:
    • Begin by flushing the toilet to empty the bowl as much as possible.
  2. Pour Hydrogen Peroxide:
    • Carefully pour about half a cup to a cup of hydrogen peroxide into the toilet bowl. You can directly pour it around the inside of the bowl, ensuring it reaches the stained or dirty areas.
  3. Let It Sit:
    • Allow the hydrogen peroxide to sit in the toilet bowl for at least 20-30 minutes. This gives it time to break down stains and disinfect the bowl.
  4. Scrub Gently:
    • Put on rubber gloves if you prefer and use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl. Pay extra attention to any stained or soiled areas.
  5. Flush:
    • Finally, flush the toilet to rinse away the hydrogen peroxide.
baking soda, essential oils and a glass pitcher vinegar on a light wood table with a few mint leaves surrounding.

Toilet Cleaning Hack #7: Homemade Cleaner 

This method effectively cleans and deodorizes your toilet while incorporating the natural cleaning properties and pleasant fragrance of essential oils.

Repeat as needed for tough stains or as part of your regular cleaning routine.

Supplies Needed

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Essential oil (e.g., tea tree, lavender, or lemon)
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves
  1. Flush and Empty the Bowl:
    • Begin by flushing the toilet to empty the bowl as much as possible.
  2. Sprinkle Baking Soda:
    • Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the toilet bowl, focusing on areas with stains or odors.
  3. Add Essential Oil:
    • Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to the baking soda. Essential oils not only add a pleasant scent but also have natural cleaning properties.
  4. Apply White Vinegar:
    • Pour white vinegar over the baking soda and essential oil mixture. You’ll notice a fizzy reaction; this is normal and helps with cleaning.
  5. Scrub Gently:
    • Put on rubber gloves if you prefer and use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl. Pay extra attention to stained areas.
  6. Let It Sit:
    • Allow the baking soda, vinegar, and essential oil mixture to sit for at least 15-30 minutes. This gives it time to break down stains and neutralize odors.
  7. Scrub Again:
    • After soaking, scrub the toilet bowl again with the brush.
  8. Flush:
    • Finally, flush the toilet to rinse away the mixture.
a stack of dryer sheets on a wooden table

Toilet Cleaning Hack #8: Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets are often used because they can help break down stains and leave a fresh scent. However, they may not be as effective on tough stains as traditional cleaning products.

Use this method for regular maintenance and consider stronger cleaners for deep stains or build-up.

Supplies Needed:

  • Dryer sheets (unused)
  • Toilet brush
  • Rubber gloves
  1. Flush and Empty the Bowl:
    • Start by flushing the toilet to empty the bowl as much as possible.
  2. Wet the Dryer Sheet:
    • Wet an unused dryer sheet with water. You can do this by running it under the faucet or dipping it into a bowl of water.
  3. Scrub the Bowl:
    • Use the wet dryer sheet to scrub the inside of the toilet bowl. Focus on areas with stains or mineral deposits.
  4. Dispose of the Dryer Sheet:
    • After scrubbing, dispose of the used dryer sheet in the trash.
  5. Flush:
    • Flush the toilet to rinse away any residue.

5 Benefits of Using Toilet Cleaning Hacks

1: Cost-Effective

Toilet cleaning hacks often utilize common household items like vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice. These items are budget-friendly and readily available, helping you save money on expensive commercial cleaning products.

2: Environmentally Friendly

Many toilet cleaning hacks rely on natural and eco-friendly ingredients, reducing your reliance on chemical-laden cleaning agents that can harm the environment.

By opting for green cleaning solutions, you contribute to a more sustainable and eco-conscious home.

3: Effective Stain Removal

Toilet cleaning hacks are surprisingly effective at tackling common bathroom stains, such as mineral deposits, hard water stains, and rust.

The combination of natural ingredients and specific cleaning methods can help restore your toilet’s cleanliness and shine.

4: Convenience & Accessibility

Toilet cleaning hacks are easy to use and don’t require specialized tools or products.

Most households already have the necessary ingredients on hand, making it convenient to maintain a clean and fresh toilet without extra trips to the store.

5: Customization & Versatility

You can tailor toilet cleaning hacks to suit your specific cleaning needs. Whether you’re dealing with tough stains, odors, or general maintenance, you can adjust the ingredients and methods to achieve the desired results.

This versatility allows for a more personalized approach to toilet cleaning.

a pinterest pin that says "8 different ways to get a clean toilet bowl". also has a picture of a nice clean toilet from using toilet cleaning hacks

All in all, these simple toilet cleaning hacks will provide moms with effective and efficient methods to keep their bathrooms clean and hygienic.

By incorporating these tips into your cleaning routines, you can save time and energy while ensuring a fresh and sanitary environment for your families.

So go ahead, try these out, and enjoy the benefits of a sparkling clean toilet without the hassle and stress.


Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you clean a toilet?

You should aim to clean your toilet at least once a week for routine maintenance. However, high-traffic bathrooms or those used by a larger family may benefit from more frequent cleaning, like every 2-3 days, to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.

Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and bacteria that can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health risks.

Should you put the toilet lid down before flushing a toilet?

Yes, it’s a good practice to put the toilet lid down before flushing. Flushing with the lid up can release tiny water droplets containing bacteria and particles into the air, potentially contaminating your bathroom. Closing the lid helps prevent this and keeps your bathroom cleaner and more hygienic.

How often should you clean a toilet bowl brush? 

You should clean your toilet bowl brush after each use. Rinse it thoroughly with hot water and a disinfectant cleaner, then allow it to air dry. By cleaning the toilet brush bowl after each use, you can maintain a more sanitary and odor-free environment in your bathroom. Additionally, it’s a good idea to replace the toilet brush every few months to maintain cleanliness and effectiveness.

What is the best trick to clean a toilet bowl? 

The best trick to clean a toilet bowl effectively is to use a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Sprinkle baking soda into the bowl, followed by vinegar. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then scrub with a toilet brush. This natural and affordable solution helps break down stains and odors, leaving your toilet fresh and clean..

How do I get brown stains off the bottom of my toilet bowl? 

To remove brown stains from the bottom of your toilet bowl, use a combination of white vinegar and baking soda. Pour vinegar, sprinkle baking soda, scrub gently, let it sit, scrub again, and flush. If needed, you can also try lemon juice. A tool that may be helpful in removing hard water stains is a pumice stone

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