How To: Clean a Toilet Tank

HOW TO CLEAN A TOILET TANK

TOOLS & MATERIALS

White vinegar
Rubber gloves
Disinfectant cleaner
Scrub brush with long handle
Sponge
Natural toilet tank cleaner
STEP 1
First, empty the tank. To do this, locate the water valve (the “faucet” valve on the wall behind or near the base of the toilet) and close it. Next, lift the tank lid so you can see the water level inside and flush the tank until it is completely empty. Depending on your flow rate, you may need to flush two or three times.
STEP 2
Assess the condition of your tank. If it’s just surface dirt, it’s a simple cleanup that a little brushing should alleviate. Proceed to step 3. If, on the other hand, you see discoloration from mineral deposits and residue accumulating at the bottom of the tank and working its way up the sides, opt for a more aggressive method: vinegar. This natural star is an excellent line of defense against mold, hard water deposits and more. You’ll need enough vinegar to fill the tank to the overflow valve, which can be up to three gallons depending on the size of your tank. (Fortunately, at about $3 a gallon, it’s not that expensive!) Pour in the vinegar and let it sit for 12 hours without flushing. When you’re ready to clean, drain the vinegar. Again, this may take two or three rinses.

STEP 3
Wearing rubber gloves, generously spray the inside of the tank – along the sides and bottom – with your favorite disinfectant cleaner. Do your best to direct the spray away from metal parts, in case corrosive additives react with the metal (bleach, for example, is very corrosive). ) Check the label for the manufacturer’s recommended dwell time. Generally, you will leave the disinfectant on for 10 to 15 minutes.
STEP 4
Get a scrub brush! Some instructions recommend using your toilet brush to clean the inside of the tank, but because of the cleaning work it does on a regular basis, we recommend that you use a new scrub brush. (This way you won’t accidentally introduce other contaminants from previous work into the tank.) ) It should be a long, narrow scrub brush with medium to firm bristles and a shape that allows you to scrub the corners and bottom of the tank. Once the waiting time is over, scrub thoroughly – in the corners, around the accessories, all over the bottom – to remove any grime and/or build-up. Apply additional cleaner if necessary.

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