There are limitless products promising to deliver a fresh, sanitized toilet bowl. But no one ever tells you how to clean your toilet tank, or even why you should.
Why You Need to Clean the Tank Too
Your toilet tank should be a cleaning target on your house-keeping to-do list. Why is that?
The tank has working parts that rely on ease of movement to flush your bowl completely. Over time, these parts accumulate a buildup of minerals and rust, which impedes operation.
The tank interior also harbors mold, mildew, and bacteria — just like any other bathroom surface. So, it’s a good idea to give it a thorough cleaning.
When to Clean Your Toilet Tank
To prevent parts becoming crusted with buildup, clean your toilet tank every six months. You can clean it more often if it emits bad odors.
How to Clean Your Toilet Tank Safely
A safe way to clean your toilet tank is by using household white vinegar. Its mild acidity breaks down mineral deposits and removes rust without dangerous fumes or harsh chemicals.
Another safe cleaner for your tank is baking soda, which works as a mild abrasive to remove dirt.
How to Clean Your Toilet Tank Efficiently
1. Turn off the supply valve on the wall near the toilet.
2. Remove the tank lid and place it in a safe location.
3. Flush your toilet until the water drains out of the tank.
4. Examine the tank to assess the nature of any staining. Light dirt without much mineral buildup can be managed with a spray bottle of white vinegar and a good scrub with baking soda.
5. A heavy buildup of lime and calcium may require a complete soak in white vinegar. If this is the case, fill the tank with white vinegar (about 3 gallons) and allow it to sit for 8 to 12 hours. After soaking is done, flush the vinegar away and proceed to the next step.
6. To remove mold and mildew, spray the interior of the tank wall with a disinfectant cleaner and allow to soak in for 10 minutes. Avoid using cleaners with bleach to prevent corroding any metal parts.
7. Put on protective gloves and scrub the walls and bottom of the tank. Don’t use the same brush you use for the toilet bowl, however.
8. Once you’ve scrubbed the tank, it’s an excellent opportunity to replace flappers, floats, and other parts.
9. Wipe down the working parts with a disinfectant. Then, turn the supply back on so the tank fills.
10. Flush your toilet to help rinse the cleaning products from the parts and ensure it’s back to normal operation.
Fresh as a Daisy
Learning how to clean your toilet tank is an easy way to keep tabs on the operation of your toilet and other bathroom fixtures.
For more complicated maintenance tasks and repairs, make an appointment with the plumbing pros at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Port St. Lucie.