The toilet tank must be cleaned periodically to avoid bad odors and the development of bacteria. Generally, we proceed by applying commercial detergents and gently rubbing the surfaces; when the cassette is very dirty, it is necessary to use bleach. Clean it regularly to keep the toilet sanitized and the bathroom fragrant.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Applying the Cleanser
Step 1. Empty the tank
First, close the water supply valve located behind the toilet; then, flush the toilet to drain the water in the cistern.
Step 2. Choose the right type of cleaner
Observe the condition of the inside of the tank and, if it looks relatively clean, you can use the same spray that you generally apply on the rest of the bathroom fixtures; however, if you notice fouling, you need something stronger.
- If there are limescale deposits, choose pure white vinegar.
- If there is dirt and mold, you need to use bleach or a commercial product.
Step 3. Pour the detergent according to the directions on the label
Bleach and other commercial products must be sprayed or poured down the toilet; try to treat the walls and the bottom of the box paying particular attention to the areas where dirt has accumulated. Remember to wear gloves when handling bleach.
Step 4. Let the vinegar dissolve the limescale deposits
When you need to get rid of encrustations, the procedure is a little different. Pour the liquid directly into the toilet up to the overflow pipe and let it act for 12 hours before emptying the tank; after this period, flush the toilet and proceed with normal cleaning.
Part 2 of 3: Clean the Reservoir
Step 1. Put on gloves
Bathrooms and toilets are usually contaminated with several bacteria; before cleaning the toilet you need to put on rubber gloves that protect you from pathogens.
If you are using bleach, gloves are essential to keep your skin safe
Step 2. Leave the cleaner in the cup
Wait for it to do its job for as long as indicated on the package. Most cleaners need 10-15 minutes; however, it is better to respect the times indicated on the label.
Remember that vinegar needs to work for 12 hours before you can start cleaning
Step 3. Scrub the inside walls
Use a brush, an old toothbrush, or an abrasive sponge to spread the cleaner inside the drain. Concentrate on the inside walls and the bottom until you smell good fresh and have removed all visible traces of grime and grime.
Also clean the moving parts, such as the float and lever
Step 4. Flush the toilet
Once all surfaces are scrubbed, you can open the water valve again and drain the tank to rinse it. If you used bleach, add 4 liters of hot water to the tub and drain it.
You should wear safety glasses to protect your eyes while pouring the water into the tank where the bleach is
Part 3 of 3: Keeping the Tank Clean
Step 1. Periodically remove limescale deposits
Over time this mineral builds up in the toilet; then check it once a week and, if you see deposits, do a treatment with vinegar; fill the box with this acidic substance, wait 12 hours and run the drain.
Step 2. Be wary of sanitizing tablets
You can buy them in home improvement stores or supermarkets and are designed to be placed in the tank to ensure a good scent. If you decide to use these products, avoid those with bleach because they can corrode and damage the internal mechanisms.
If you clean the cassette regularly, tablets are not needed
Step 3. Set up a maintenance routine
Many people regularly clean the toilet but ignore the toilet; do not fall into this mistake! Take care of the tank at least once a month to perform a deep cleaning of the whole bathroom; with this foresight, the bathroom smells fresh and clean.
