Consider it as necessary upkeep for your toilet.
When you envision cleaning a toilet, tasks like scrubbing the bowl and wiping down the exterior likely come to mind. However, have you considered the inside of the toilet tank?
Toilet tanks are often neglected since there’s little reason to lift the lid unless an issue arises, such as a continuously running toilet. However, it’s beneficial to clean the inside of your toilet tank once or twice a year. This ensures proper maintenance, and here’s why it’s important, along with the correct method for cleaning your toilet tank.
Why you should clean your toilet tank
The reservoir at the rear of your toilet contains essential components for its operation. If these internal parts are not in good condition, it can disrupt the entire system. Simply put, maintaining a clean toilet tank ensures smooth functioning.
Limescale and mineral accumulation are typical issues that can corrode metal and rubber components within the tank, potentially causing unpleasant odors. Notably, these problems are less concerning if the internal components of your toilet tank are constructed from plastic.
The moist and dim environment within a toilet tank creates a possibility for the growth of mold and mildew. Fortunately, this is generally not a concern for toilets that are regularly flushed and cleaned. Regular flushing empties the tank, replacing the water with a fresh supply, preventing prolonged stagnation and carrying away any potential organic buildup.
Don’t use in-tank cleaners
One of the problems is that the chemicals in the cleaner can break down plastic and rubber components in the tank. Those in-tank cleaning discs or tablets will also shorten the life of the working parts in your toilet.
The right way to clean a toilet tank
Maintaining a clean toilet tank is a straightforward task when performed regularly. Begin by lifting the lid and inspecting the interior. If it appears relatively clean with minimal buildup or stains, and there are no loose mineral deposits at the bottom, you likely won’t need to drain the tank. Here’s what you can do:
How to clean a toilet tank without draining it
Before bedtime or during a period when the toilet won’t be in use, pour approximately one cup of white vinegar into the toilet tank for every gallon of water it holds. The specific capacity varies based on the model and age, but you don’t need to be overly precise, and a cup or two should suffice. If you prefer citric acid for cleaning, you can add around two tablespoons of it to the tank water as an alternative.
Regardless of your chosen cleaning solution, allow the tank water and acid mixture to sit overnight or for a few hours. Then, don a pair of gloves and use a long-handled brush to scrub the interior. If the tank is too full for scrubbing, flush, add another splash of vinegar (if using), and proceed with scrubbing. For any stubborn spots, use an old toothbrush. Conclude the cleaning process by flushing the toilet multiple times to clear out the vinegar or citric acid.
How to deep-clean a toilet tank
For stubborn stains or mineral buildup, emptying the toilet tank is necessary. Begin by turning off the water supply to your toilet, flushing to partially empty the tank (any remaining water is okay), and wearing rubber gloves.
Remove any debris, such as white or gray mineral chunks, from the tank’s bottom. Submerge a long-handled brush into a mixture of one-part warm water and one-part white vinegar (or one to two tablespoons of citric acid dissolved in a gallon of warm water), and scrub the tank’s interior. Use a toothbrush or rag for areas that require extra attention. Once satisfied, restore the toilet water supply and flush.
How often you should clean your toilet tank
Cleaning your toilet tank annually is typically adequate to manage mineral buildup. However, as a precaution, it’s advisable to inspect the tank periodically to ensure there is no significant mineral accumulation and that all components can operate effectively.