Regular cleaning of the toilet bowl is an important part of basic sanitation for the health of your family. There are many fantastic products that can help you do this. But it can be difficult to narrow down the choices and find the right mix, especially if you do not want to use harsh chemicals like bleach.
Read on to learn what to look for when choosing the best toilet cleaner for your home, and the solutions we have selected for you so you do not have to rely on a home remedy or DIY cleaner.
What Is A Toilet Bowl Cleaner?
Toilet bowl cleaning and disinfection is the main purpose of toilet bowl cleaners. Stains, rust, mineral deposits and other dirt can be removed with the right toilet cleaner. Most toilet bowl cleaners are either gels or liquids that are poured into the bowl and scrubbed.
The sides of the bowl can be scrubbed with the brush included in some toilet cleaners. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a toilet cleaner, as these products often contain bleach or other harsh chemicals.
Always do a spot test on a small portion of the toilet bowl before using the cleaner on the entire bowl. When you clean the toilet bowl with a product designed for this purpose, it should smell fresh and be free of germs and bacteria.
12 Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners
1. Clorox Clinging Bleach Gel Toilet Bowl Cleaner
This cleaner stands out from the crowd because of the attached bleach, which is also contained in its liquid counterpart, Clorox WC Bowl Cleaner with Bleach. Contact with the surface is essential to ensure thorough disinfection, and the thicker gel formula actually adheres to the sides of the bowl.
Rather than relying on the formula to drip down, as many other brands do, Clorox provides a novel and effective applicator nozzle that sprays a broad spray of cleaner over the surface of the bowl, covering it with a blanket of liquid. My bowl shined after using this cleaner.
A spot test revealed that this cleaner left a stain on a dark cotton garment, so as with any bleach, we took the necessary precautions. And although it is labeled “Ocean Mist,” the scent is unmistakably that of bleach.
The recommended amount of product for each cleaning is 8 ounces, as indicated in the instructions. Using such a large amount of bleach to regularly disinfect your toilet can be harmful to septic systems, warns EPA, even if the chemical itself is labeled “septic safe”
2. Better Life Toilet Bowl Cleaner
The fact that Better Life Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner comes from an organic cooperative is easy to recognize from the scent. Tea tree and eucalyptus oil are responsible for the aroma, which is pleasant and not too intrusive.
The Better Life brand of plant-based toilet cleaner we tested features a healthy list of ingredients that are free of sulfates, parabens, petroleum-based solvents, and other harsh chemicals you find in other cleaners. Citric acid and soap bark are used to remove stains.
There is no guarantee that Better Life’s toilet cleaner will eliminate all viruses or even a certain percentage of germs, although citric acid has antibacterial properties and can kill germs. Nevertheless, our toilet looked like new after a thorough cleaning.
We think this is a responsible choice for an all-purpose cleaner, since you are not washing down harsh chemicals and there are no corrosive ingredients that could be harmful if you come in contact with your skin or inhale them.
The thick gel composition stuck to the sides of the bowl, creating a surprising lather that reached under the rim and all over the bowl to remove stains.
3. Lysol Clean & Fresh Toilet Bowl Cleaner
The scent of Lysol Clean & Fresh is quite soapy and fresh, similar to Palmolive dishwashing liquid. The active ingredient, quaternary ammonia or quats, can break down the cell walls and membranes of bacteria and viruses, killing or inactivating them.
The company claims that this product can eliminate 99.9% of viruses, including COVID -19. In other words, it is not suitable for sewage treatment plants.
The product worked well as a disinfecting cleaner and adhered to the sides of the bowl, although it left a light green film after it was rinsed away.
4. Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner
My toilet bowl looks like new after cleaning with Lysol Power, and I know that the main ingredient, hydrochloric acid, kills 99.9% of bacteria. The blue “thick gel” mixture stays in the bowl for the full 15 minutes that antibacterial experts say it takes to do the job right.
The scent of Lysol Power was one of my favorites. A subtle winter green perfume, similar to other cleaners we have tried, fills the air. For what it contains, this is a welcome surprise.
Although Lysol Power’s packaging claims it is septic safe, EPA advises against using hydrochloric acid in homes with septic systems because it can kill the good bacteria in septic tanks.
5. Method Antibac Toilet
Method is one of the few cleaners on our list that is both highly effective at disinfecting and completely biodegradable and septic safe. Method, a recognized B Corporation, markets itself as a “pioneer in luxurious, eco-friendly and design-driven household, textile and personal care products,” all “made from natural, biodegradable materials”
The main ingredient in Method Antibac Toilet Cleaner is citric acid, which kills 99.9 percent of all germs (including COVID -19) while providing a thorough, disinfecting clean without chemical disinfectants or intrusive fragrances.
The blue liquid must be poured into the bowl and then stirred a few times to get a good, even coat. Like most other disinfectants, it must be left on the surface for at least 10 minutes to kill all bacteria.
It leaves a fresh and minty smell in the bathroom and, when used properly, should also kill any bacteria that may be hiding there.
6. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Mrs. Meyer’s is a natural, biodegradable cleaner that does a great job of dusting, wiping and removing stains. It has a thick, sticky consistency that will not slosh out of the bowl, and foams up nicely with soapy water.
The product has a light floral aroma with a hint of chemistry and is packaged in a childproof bottle that is easy to open.
The cleaner is effective, but Mrs. Meyer’s website warns that those who have hard water “may need to use the product more frequently to prevent the mineral deposits that build up on the plumbing with hard water
7. Clorox Bleach Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Clorox Toilet Cleaner with Bleach is similar to Clorox Toilet Cleaner with Bleach Attached, except that it is less thick and does not stay in place as long. Nevertheless, its cleaning action and effectiveness against visible stains are excellent.
This cleaner did a good job of disinfecting and whitening my bowl, just like Clinging Bleach. The convenient nozzle made it easy to spray a generous amount of the cleaner all over the inside and outside of the bowl.
The recipe left a discolored stain on our test sample, so we took the usual precautions for bleach to keep it from getting everywhere.
8. Scrubbing Bubbles Bubbly Bleach Gel Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Cleaning Products (Scrubbing) with Bubbles Only the Bubbly Bleach Gel we tested lacked a visible colour to tell you how evenly you were spreading the solution on your surface, so it was the least effective of the Scrubbing Bubbles formulas we tested. However, I felt better about this product because it contained fewer synthetic chemicals.
Despite the manufacturer’s claims to the contrary, I did not find that this product produced more lather than the others we tested. However, the bleach-based gel did stick to the bowl and did an excellent job of cleaning it.
All of Scrubbing Bubbles’ products, including this one, feature a revolutionary curved neck that allows the cleaner to fill all the way to the top and reach below the rim to thoroughly remove stains.
9. Scrubbing Bubbles Power Stain Destroyer Non-Bleach Toilet Bowl Cleaner
The rich green color of Scrubbing Bubbles Non-Bleach Power Stain Destroyer stayed in my toilet bowl long after I flushed it. Although the product promises to turn from green to blue for stubborn stains, I only noticed temporary streaks of turquoise where the water flowed down and refilled my bowl.
Prolonged use of the product could contribute to this oversaturation: compared to other cleaners that often only require 4-8 ounces to disinfect, the directions for this product state a full 10 ounces.
This particular cleaner claims to be bleach-free, but it actually uses hydrochloric acid. Cleaning with this product is supposed to be effective against 99.9% of viruses, including COVID -19, thanks to the acid in the formula. The cleaner did what it was supposed to do, disinfect the area, but the fake “rainwater” smell and dark tint left a bad taste in my mouth.
10. Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Seventh Generation is a company that produces environmentally friendly cleaning products, such as a synthetic and dye-free toilet cleaner made from plants.
The biodegradable cleaning formula is so mild that it should not upset the delicate bacterial balance in your septic tank. We have found that only Seventh Generation’s toilet cleaner has been rated A by EWG and earned a spot on EPA ‘s Safer Choice list.
Effectively removes surface stains. It does not have the ability to disinfect or destroy microorganisms.
The formula is sticky and tends to adhere to the inside of dishes. The scent of “Emerald Cypress and Fir” was piney but not irritating, and it lathered up well for a nice scrubby clean.
The most frustrating part was trying to open and close the cap, a problem numerous customers described on the company’s website. The cap had to be pried open, and even when I thought I had it closed, it stayed that way. It seemed to protect not only children, but adults as well. At least, that’s how it is for this adult.
11. Lime-A-Way Toilet Bowl Cleaner
During the Lime-A-Way test, I focused primarily on identifying the scent. There’s nothing on the packaging about the product’s scent (other than the vague promise that it leaves a “fresh scent”). Finally, I had the right sniff: Pepto Bismol. Very mild wintergreen and mint flavor; not offensive at all.
With its thick gel consistency, Lime-A-Way effectively sticks to the edges of your bowl and lives up to its claim of removing rust, lime and other hard water stains. The sulfamic acid used in its manufacture is extremely dangerous if it comes in contact with the skin or eyes, and should not be inhaled.
Although Lime-A-Way has been effective in removing surface stains and disinfecting the bowl, it is not a disinfectant and makes no such claim. In most cases, sulfamic acid in low concentrations is safe for septic systems.
12. Zep Acidic Toilet Bowl Cleaner
To remove stubborn stains such as lime and rust, use Zep sparingly if you have a septic tank because the active ingredient is hydrochloric acid.
The gel consistency of Zep is much thinner than sticky products and it has a mild, minty smell. Nevertheless, it has been successful in removing stubborn stains and scratch marks in the bowl.
Types of Toilet Bowl Cleaners
Some people use a toilet bowl cleaning daily to keep their toilet clean. There are a variety of toilet cleaners on the market, and it can be confusing to choose the one that is most effective for your needs.
The material of your toilet should be a top priority when choosing a toilet cleaner. For a porcelain toilet, you can not just use any toilet cleaner; you need something specifically designed for that toilet.
Knowing what material your toilet is made of will help you choose the most appropriate cleaner. To avoid surface damage and stubborn stains, do not use harsh chemicals on your toilet.
Choose a cleaner that is either all-natural or made specifically for porcelain commodes. With a little research, you can find the best toilet cleaner for your home.
Is Toilet Bowl Cleaner Worth It?
The cleaner for the toilet bowl is a must for every household. It not only cleans, it also disinfects and deodorizes the toilet bowl. Gels, foams, and liquids are just some of the forms in which toilet cleaners are available.
Cleaning and disinfecting performance is usually best with gel formulations, while foams and liquids score higher on ease of use. In the toilet cleaner market, there are both fragranced and tasteless products.
Toilet cleaners come both with and without fragrances. The former are useful for masking unpleasant odors, while the latter are best for people who are sensitive to fragrances. Proper use of toilet cleaners helps to ensure that the toilet is hygienic and smells pleasant.
How To Shop For The Best Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Proper hygiene in the bathroom requires the regular use of toilet cleaners. However, with the wide range of alternatives available, it can be difficult to choose the best product.
It is important to consider the following factors when choosing a toilet cleaner:
- Think about the type of sanitizer: two common types of toilet bowl cleaners are gel and powder. Gel cleaners are more expensive than their liquid counterparts, but they are more convenient to use and leave less residue. Powder cleaners, on the other hand, are cheaper overall but more difficult to apply evenly.
- Consider your cleaning needs: If your toilet is particularly dirty, use a cleaner that can get rid of stubborn stains. If you have sensitive skin, avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals.
- Just be sure to check the label! Once you have narrowed down to a few cleaners, study the labels to find out which cleaners are best for the job. Read the label carefully, paying special attention to any precautions or warnings. This way, you can be sure that you are buying a reliable and useful product.
FAQ
What is the best way to keep a toilet bowl clean?
Using a product designed exclusively for cleaning toilet bowls is the most effective method.
Products that claim to clean toilet bowls but are not made specifically for that purpose may damage the porcelain or cause other problems.
Also, when using toilet bowl cleaners, it is important that you follow the label instructions exactly. And if you are not sure how to use a product, it’s best to contact the manufacturer to clarify.
How often should you use toilet bowl cleaner?
Using a toilet cleaner is highly recommended if you want to maintain a spotless bathroom. To avoid damaging your porcelain toilet, use it only when absolutely necessary. To be on the safe side, you should use the toilet bowl cleaner once a week.
If you have an extremely unclean toilet, you may need to clean it more regularly than every two weeks. Simply pour some cleaner around the rim of the bowl and brush it off with a toilet brush.
When you are done cleaning, flush the toilet to get rid of any residual disinfectant. Keeping the toilet clean will keep it smelling and looking good longer.
How We Chose The Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners?
To make sure we know all the brands that are out there, we research extensively on the Internet and with the industry’s leading online retailers before making a final decision.
We consider many factors, such as customer feedback, star ratings, brand philosophy, production methods, raw materials, and ease of access. We take the time to think through the pros and cons so you do not have to.
