Expert Guide to Cleaning Toilet Tanks With Vinegar

How often do you clean the toilet tank inside? Your regular cleaning routine may include an exterior wipe-down and scrub, but taking care of the inside of the tank is just as significant to the long-term maintenance of the fixture. In this hidden spot, hard water residues, mould and germs can grow, releasing unpleasant odours.

Next time you deep clean your bathroom, rinse the toilet tank with vinegar – it’s easier than you think. Vinegar is an eco-friendly option that saves you time and doesn’t involve buying commercial cleaning detergents. A vinegar solution can also prevent mould and bacteria from growing, which can be hard to remove. For this reason, professional cleaners and plumbers recommend vinegar to get rid of dirt and buildup from toilet tanks and other surfaces. 

How Often To Clean Your Toilet Tank

While cleaning the toilet tank requires more effort than cleaning the outside, you don’t have to do it frequently. The experts recommend scrubbing your toilet tank twice a year to prevent mildew, rust, and grime – and also to avoid hard water buildup that can damage the parts. Deep cleaning of a toilet tank is not a necessity, but it is recommended. Adding this chore to your spring cleaning checklist is a good idea. The proper maintenance will help to extend its lifespan and avoid issues with functionality.

Can You Use White Vinegar to Clean a Toilet Tank

White vinegar is one of the most effective household items used for DIY purposes. You can use it for cleaning your toilet tank as well – it is a cost-effective and eco-friendly method. Besides, it is a great natural product dealing with the rust in toilet tanks. Routine cleaning with vinegar twice a year will prevent excessive mineral deposits from building up in the tank. 

All you need for the job:

  • White vinegar 
  • A pair of rubber gloves
  • A multipurpose cleaner
  • Sponge
  • Scrub brush with plastic bristles

Mix equal parts vinegar and water. Pour the mixture into the tank and allow it to soak. Make sure it covers all parts of the tank. Let the vinegar solution sit overnight or for several hours to ensure an effective clean.

Tip: Some experts recommend leaving the solution for 12 or 13 hours in the tank. As a result, acetic acid in the vinegar effectively dissolves stains and deposits.

There is something you should keep in mind. Toilet tank metal components can rust from acidic solutions like vinegar. When you notice rust in your tank, you should not use vinegar for cleaning. In this case, you should opt for commercial cleaning detergent or consider calling a professional to remove the stains without any damage.

Expert tip: It is not recommended to mix vinegar and baking soda. The combination of these two ingredients causes foaming up, which can lead to clogging the fill valve or overflowing. Use vinegar to eliminate mineral accumulations or stains in the tank and baking soda to scrub the surfaces for a sparkling finish.

Inside a Toilet Tank: How to Clean It

When it comes to cleaning a toilet, most homeowners focus entirely on the seat. As a result, the tank, the part of the toilet that contains the water for flushing, often gets neglected, and mineral buildup and rust can contribute to plumbing issues and reduce the toilet’s lifespan. 

These helpful steps will help you to deal with dirt and any buildup effectively.

  1. The first thing you need to do is turn off the water supply so the tank does not get filled up while you’re cleaning it. Turn the small valve that attaches the tube to the wall (called a speedy valve) clockwise. Then, rinse the toilet until the tank is drained. No water should remain.
  2. Check the inside of the tank. You should check for rusted metal parts, red stains, especially near the water level, and mineral deposits.
  3. Spray a bleach-free disinfectant or mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray water. You should leave the disinfectant for 15 minutes. It will remove general dirt and grime. If you use commercial detergent, be careful not to spray the toilet lift chain or other metal parts.
  4. To clean the tank, use a scrub brush to remove any dirt or buildup. Then, wipe off the internal parts with a paper towel.
  5. Apply disinfectant cleaner to the other components, including the flapper at the bottom of the tank and the float. This time, you won’t have to worry about damaging any metal parts since you won’t let the cleaner sit for a long time.
  6. Turn on the water supply again and let the tank gradually fill up, flushing the toilet several times to rinse it out. A clean toilet tank will avoid situations like unclogging a toilet or having a toilet that won’t flush.

DIY vs. Hiring an Expert

Cleaning your toilet tank is a simple household task. You can get the job done with items you already have at home, which is cost-effective and eco-friendly.

However, in some cases, your cleaning task may require an expert. If there is an excessive accumulation that can be removed only with harsh products, then you should hire a professional house cleaner near you. Cleaners usually have the right equipment and products to do the job properly and safely. They will choose the most effective cleaning product that is safe for the tank. In this way, you will make sure that the job is done without any plumbing issues or other repairs.

Toilet Tank Maintenance Tips

To maintain your tank’s condition between thorough cleanings, you can follow some essential tips.

  • You should avoid using cleaning tabs – they contain bleach that can corrode the toilet tank.
  • Once a month, add a cup of white distilled vinegar to the tank. Experts recommend leaving it overnight and rinsing it the next morning.
  • Every month, check for deposits and staining. Such regular checkup is especially useful if you have hard water in your area.

Takeaways

  • Cleaning the toilet tank is just as important as cleaning the toilet itself.
  • Use white vinegar as an alternative to commercial cleaning products.
  • Avoid mixing vinegar and baking soda – the combination may cause damage to the tank.
  • Don’t use products containing bleach inside the tank, as it can corrode the internal parts.
  • Routine cleaning of your toilet tank will extend its lifespan.