How to Clean Under the Toilet Bowl Rim

What You’ll Need

• Toilet brush with a curved head
• Toilet bowl cleaner (preferably with a longer nozzle)
• Disinfectant spray or wipes (optional)
• Rubber gloves (optional)
• A cleaning cloth or sponge
• Vinegar or a cleaning solution for tough stains (optional)

Steps to Clean Under the Toilet Bowl Rim

1. Apply Toilet Cleaner Under the Rim

The first step is to apply your toilet cleaner directly under the rim. Most toilet bowl cleaners come with a long, narrow nozzle, which makes it easier to apply the product in hard-to-reach areas. If you’re using a liquid cleaner, squirt it all around the underside of the rim, ensuring you cover the entire surface.

Tip: For extra tough stains, you can use a cleaner with bleach or a vinegar-based cleaner for natural stain removal. Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes to loosen grime and mineral deposits.

2. Let the Cleaner Sit

Allow the cleaner to sit for at least 5-10 minutes. This will give the product time to break down mineral deposits, stains, and any buildup under the rim. If you’re using vinegar or a commercial cleaner, the sitting time will help dissolve stubborn stains effectively.

3. Scrub Under the Rim with a Toilet Brush

After letting the cleaner sit, take your toilet brush with a curved head and scrub under the rim. Use the brush’s curve to reach the entire area beneath the rim. Be thorough, scrubbing in circular motions to dislodge grime, mineral buildup, and stains. Focus on the areas where you notice the most discoloration or buildup.

Tip: If the stains are especially tough, you can try using a pumice stone gently on the affected area. Always test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t scratch your toilet’s surface.

4. Clean the Rest of the Toilet Bowl

Once you’ve scrubbed the area under the rim, it’s a good idea to scrub the rest of the toilet bowl as well. Use the same toilet brush to scrub the sides of the bowl, ensuring that you clean the entire interior. This will help maintain a fresh and clean appearance for your toilet.

5. Flush and Rinse

Once you’ve finished scrubbing, flush the toilet to rinse away the cleaner and any loosened debris. The water will help wash away the residue left behind by the cleaner, leaving your toilet bowl spotless and fresh.

6. Wipe Down the Toilet Rim

If necessary, wipe the rim and outer parts of the toilet with a cleaning cloth or disinfecting wipe. This step will help remove any remaining cleaner and grime that may have splashed outside the toilet bowl during the cleaning process. Make sure to wipe down the outer parts of the toilet, including the flush lever and surrounding areas, for a complete cleaning.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Toilet Rim

• Regular Cleaning: Clean under the toilet rim at least once a week to prevent buildup of mineral deposits and grime.
• Use a Toilet Bowl Cleaner with a Long-Lasting Formula: Some toilet cleaners are designed to help prevent stains and mineral buildup. Consider using one to reduce the frequency of deep cleaning.
• Consider a Toilet Cleaner Tablet: Toilet bowl tablets placed in the tank can help clean and disinfect your toilet automatically with every flush, reducing buildup under the rim.
• Use a Toilet Brush with a Curved Head: A toilet brush with a curved head is specifically designed for reaching under the rim, making the task easier and more effective.
• Avoid Harsh Chemical Cleaners: Regular use of bleach or acidic cleaners can erode the toilet’s surface over time. Instead, try using more natural solutions like vinegar or eco-friendly toilet cleaners.