Keeping a Toilet Clean and Fresh

One of the most disgusting and germ-filled sights to see (or smell) is a dirty toilet. Whether you are trying to be hospitable to your guests or you are worried about your own sanitation and health, it is important to try to keep your toilet clean and fresh. Today there are many ways to clean your toilet, so the choice is yours.

• Inside of the bowl: This is the step of cleaning the toilet that allows you some variation. You can use toilet bowl cleaner or baking soda with a toilet cleaning brush, or you can invest in a fancier version. Go to your local store and look at the cleaning aisle—you will have many choices of toilet cleaners and brushes to choose from.
• Outside of the bowl: While it is important to clean the inside of the toilet (the toilet bowl), it is also important to clean the outside as well. Use a sponge or paper towel with all-purpose cleaner or anti-bacterial wipes to clean all of the surfaces. Some places to not miss are the handle of the toilet (a big germ-collector) and the bottom of the toilet next to the floor (which collects dust and other unwanted substances, especially when there are small children using the toilet).
• Stubborn stains: If you have a stain or ring that just will not go away, try gently scrubbing the area with a pumice stone. However, be careful to not scrub with a pumice stone too regularly so as to not damage your toilet.
• Tablets: You can help keep your toilet more clean and fresh in between cleanings by buying and using toilet bowl tablets. Follow the directions on the package, but usually you will place the tablet in the tank (the back of the toilet where the lid lifts up to a tank of water).
• Other considerations: If you have small children or you are potty-training a child, you will need to clean the toilet more often. Also, if many people share the same bathroom, you may need to clean the toilet more often than if you are the only user.

Keeping your toilet clean and fresh will not only help your bathroom and house look nicer, but it will also help your health. If possible, try to clean your toilet bowl often. If you clean your toilet bowl weekly, it will not be as time-consuming or disgusting as it may be if your cleanings are few and far between. Even just a quick scrub with some cleaner can make a big difference.