Toilet Smelling Less Than Fresh? Simple Steps to Clean the Tank
If you're like most people, you clean your bathrooms at least once a week. Part of that cleaning routine probably includes the toilets. What you might not realize is that if you're not cleaning the toilet tanks, you're not getting the toilets as clean as they should be. In fact, germs, bacteria, and even mold could be lurking in your toilet tanks. You might not think that a dirty toilet tank will make much difference, but it does.
A dirty tank can leave your bathroom smelling less than clean. Not only that, but those dirty toilet tanks could be a health risk to you. This is especially true during times of sickness. You see, when you have the stomach flu, you probably bend over the toilet several times. Dirty toilet tanks also wear out quicker, which means you can develop plumbing problems. Here are three simple steps you can take to clean your toilet tank.
Turn Off the Water
When cleaning your toilet tank, you want to remove the water first. Removing the water will allow you to give your tank a thorough cleaning. Begin by turning the water off at the main valve, located on the wall behind the toilet. Once the water is off, flush the toilet. Flushing the toilet while the water is turned off will drain the water from the tank.
Remove the Scum
Once the tank has been drained, you'll need to clean the flushing mechanism located inside the tank. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a cup of vinegar. Use a soft cloth to scrub the fill valve, float bell, and drain cover located inside the tank. This will ensure that the germs and bacteria are removed from the flushing apparatus
Sanitize the Tank
After you've cleaned the flushing apparatus, you'll want to sanitize the tank. The first thing you should do is turn the water back on to refill the tank. Once the tank is refilled, add a cup of hydrogen peroxide and allow it to soak for about 30 minutes. Flush the toilet as usual. Your tank will then be clean and sanitary. To keep your tank sanitized, be sure to add peroxide to the tank at least once a week. Using peroxide to sanitize your tank will keep your entire toilet clean and germ free.
When it comes to cleaning your bathroom, don't forget about the toilet tank. The tips provided here will help you keep the toilet tank clean, fresh, and mold free. If your toilet develops problems, be sure to contact a plumber such as Mr. Rooter Plumbing as soon as possible.