How to Clean a Toilet the Right Way
A toilet might not be the most exciting part of a home, but it's still one of the most important. This fixture is used daily by most people, so it requires regular cleaning to keep bacterial and fungal growth under control. Here are some tips on cleaning your toilet the right way so it stays sanitary and looking great.
The word "toilet" is a euphemism for lavatory, but it has also come to mean an individual's personal hygiene fixtures—including bathing and grooming—and the act of going to the bathroom itself. It is a common misconception that the word has only ever referred to toilets and other fixtures for defecation and urination; however, in actuality, the word was in wide use long before the first 'toilet seat' appeared in 1904.
In the 16th century, English speakers borrowed the diminutive form of French toilette, which grew to have many additional uses as well. In fact, in the Middle Ages, it was most commonly used to refer to any kind of dressing table, including those used by women for hair and makeup.
When it comes to choosing a new toilet, there are several factors to consider, from the height and material to the bowl shape and flush mechanism. Considering all of these options and how they relate to your specific needs will help you choose the best toilet for your home.
Before you start cleaning your toilet, make sure to relocate items from the top of the tank and base. These can include things like tissue boxes, room deodorizer sprays, and the toilet plunger. This will ensure they don't get accidentally knocked over while you're working. Next, roll up your sleeves and put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect yourself from germs and bacteria.
Begin by scrubbing the rim of the toilet and the area under it, then move on to the rest of the bowl. Scrub the bowl, bowl drain hole opening, and the rim, and rinse the toilet brush often throughout the process to avoid streaking. Finally, scrub the inside of the lid and close it to trap any remaining debris.
After you're finished, the water from your toilet will be carried to a wastewater treatment plant where solids and liquids are separated. The solids become sludge that can be used to fertilize farm fields and other purposes, while the water will get treated and released into a river or other waterway.
The average person produces about three to eight ounces of waste every day, so it's crucial that your toilet can properly flush this waste away. Luckily, with proper maintenance and cleaning, you can extend the life of your toilet and improve its performance.