You don’t always have to use a bleach-based cleaner for your toilet.
Try using something a little friendlier to the nostrils and the environment.
Baking soda with white vinegar is effective in removing stains from toilets.
I’ve been using it for a while now, and I’m pretty happy with the results.
Keep on reading to learn how I use baking soda and white vinegar to clean the toilet. Try it out before you open another bottle of bleach.
What you’ll need:
1 cup Baking Soda (About 16 tablespoons)
2 cups White Vinegar
Toilet Brush
Steps on How to Clean Your Toilet Bowl with Baking Soda and Vinegar:
1. Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into your toilet bowl.
2. Let the white vinegar sit for a couple of minutes. Even better, let it sit for an hour if you have time.
3. Pour a cup of baking soda into the bowl. Make sure you sprinkle it a bit. Let it sit for a couple of minutes. You’ll notice the vinegar reacts to the baking soda.
4. Scrub the stained areas with a brush. The water stains and grime should be much easier to scrub off.
5. Rinse with water. Flush the toilet afterward.
Can I Pour Baking Soda Before the Vinegar?
I’ve seen videos where they pour the baking soda first before the white vinegar.
You can also try that but, from my personal experience, I find it easier to remove the stains whenever I pour the white vinegar first.
It’s just that the acid in the vinegar has more time to soften the grime.
Try it to see what works best for you.
Will Baking Soda and Vinegar Ruin My Plumbing?
I can only speak from experience. I’ve been using baking soda and vinegar to clean my toilet bowl for years now, and I never had a problem with my plumbing.
However, I’ve observed that using too much baking soda can create a build-up. I suspect that it might clog pipes. It’s unlikely to happen, but it’s better to err on the side of caution and go easy on the baking soda.
Always check your toilet’s manufacturer’s guide to make sure that baking soda and vinegar won’t ruin the surface of your bowl.
Call your local plumber if you’re having problems with your plumbing. It’s always best to get a professional’s opinion. Better safe than sorry.
Maintaining a Clean Toilet Bowl
Keeping your toilet bowl clean is an ongoing process that requires regular attention. Here are some tips for maintaining a clean toilet bowl:
- Develop a regular cleaning schedule, such as once a week or every other week, to keep your toilet bowl clean and fresh.
- Use a toilet brush to scrub the inside of the bowl and remove any stains or buildup.
- Use a disinfectant cleaner to kill bacteria and germs that can cause odors and other issues.
- Wipe down the outside of the bowl and the surrounding area with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt.
- Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface of the bowl and make it more prone to staining.
Eco-Friendly Toilet Cleaning
If you’re looking for more environmentally friendly ways to clean your toilet bowl, there are several options available. Here are some eco-friendly toilet cleaning tips:
- Use natural cleaning products, such as baking soda and vinegar to clean your toilet bowl without harsh chemicals.
- Try using a compostable toilet brush made from bamboo or other sustainable materials.
- Use a toilet bowl cleaner that is biodegradable and non-toxic to reduce your environmental impact.
- Consider installing a low-flow toilet to conserve water and reduce your household’s overall water usage.
Health and Safety Considerations
When cleaning your toilet bowl, it’s important to take precautions to protect your health and safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals and bacteria.
- Avoid mixing different cleaning products, as this can create harmful fumes and other hazards.
- Make sure your bathroom is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of fumes and odors.
- Store cleaning products in a secure location, away from children and pets.
Conclusion:
There you have it. That’s how I clean the toilet with baking soda and vinegar.
If you’re looking for more ways to use baking soda to clean your bathroom, check out my post on how to clean a rusty faucet.
You can now sit proudly on your throne thanks to the power of baking soda and white vinegar. I hope it’s not the Iron Throne. Please don’t sit there if you’re a mad king or own dragons.
Don’t forget to share if you find this article helpful.
Thank you for reading.
-Baking Soda Guy
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean other bathroom surfaces besides the toilet bowl? Yes, baking soda and vinegar can be used to clean various bathroom surfaces, including sinks, countertops, and bathtub surfaces. They are effective in removing stains, soap scum, and grime from these areas. However, it’s essential to test a small area first, especially on delicate or porous surfaces, to ensure they won’t be damaged by the cleaning solution.
- Is it safe to mix baking soda and vinegar together? It’s generally safe to mix baking soda and vinegar together for cleaning purposes. The mixture creates a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide bubbles, which helps lift stains and grime. However, it’s essential to avoid mixing baking soda and vinegar in a closed container, as the buildup of carbon dioxide gas could cause pressure to build up and lead to the container bursting.
- Can baking soda and vinegar remove tough stains from the toilet bowl? Baking soda and vinegar can be effective in removing some stains and water marks from the toilet bowl. However, for particularly tough stains or mineral deposits, you may need to use a specialized toilet bowl cleaner or employ other cleaning methods.
- Will using baking soda and vinegar in my toilet harm the septic system? Baking soda and vinegar are generally safe for septic systems when used in moderation for cleaning purposes. However, excessive use of baking soda and vinegar could disrupt the balance of the septic system. It’s best to use them in small amounts and only as needed for toilet cleaning.
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar in a toilet with colored surfaces? Baking soda and vinegar are generally safe for use on colored toilet surfaces, but it’s always best to test a small, inconspicuous area first to check for any potential color fading or damage.
- How often should I clean my toilet bowl with baking soda and vinegar? The frequency of cleaning your toilet bowl with baking soda and vinegar depends on how often it gets dirty or stained. As a general rule, regular cleaning once a week or every other week should be sufficient to maintain a clean and fresh toilet bowl.
- Can baking soda and vinegar completely eliminate toilet bowl odors? Baking soda and vinegar can help neutralize odors and leave your toilet smelling fresher. However, for persistent odors, consider using other deodorizing methods or specialized toilet bowl deodorizers.
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean a clogged toilet? While baking soda and vinegar can help with minor clogs, they may not be effective for severe or persistent clogs. For significant blockages, it’s best to use a plunger or call a professional plumber to avoid potential damage to your plumbing.
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean a self-cleaning toilet? It’s generally safe to use baking soda and vinegar to clean a self-cleaning toilet. However, some self-cleaning toilets have specific cleaning recommendations or restrictions, so it’s essential to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before using any cleaning products.
References:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2022/11/03/how-to-clean-toilet-better/
https://cccleanindiana.com/toilet-bowl-dirty-keep-clean-prevent-stains/
Top Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
