How to Clean Around a Toilet Base

Cleaning the toilet is unlikely to be at the top of your list when it comes to household chores. Although it needs to be done every week, many people rush through the process so that this hated task can finally be put behind them.

Speeding through an unwanted chore can be tempting, but it can also lead to the build-up of dirt, grime, and mould that will become increasingly difficult to remove.

One of the most common areas that end up being neglected when cleaning the toilet is the area around the base.

Unfortunately, this often means the flooring becomes stained and unsanitary.

In this article, we teach you how to clean around a toilet base quickly and effectively so that this unwanted build-up can be removed. We also cover the different cleaners you can use to achieve the best results.

 

How Do You Clean Around a Toilet Base?

Cleaning around the base of your toilet may not be the most enjoyable task in the world, but it is essential in maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom.

Thankfully, the process is very straightforward and will only take a few minutes once an initial deep clean has been completed.

To effectively clean around the base of your toilet, you will need to complete the following steps:

1. Gather your supplies

Before getting started, make sure you have everything your need to hand. For this method, you will need rubber gloves, a cleaning solution, a bucket of water, two microfibre cloths, a sponge, and a toothbrush.

 

2. Remove loose dirt

Use one of your microfibre cloths to wipe away any loose dust and grime from around the base of the toilet. This makes it easier to tackle the more stubborn stains beneath.

Discard this cloth after wiping the bathroom to avoid accidentally using it to dry your clean toilet base later.

 

3. Apply the cleaning solution

Spray your cleaning solution around the base of the toilet and leave it for a few minutes to sink in.

We’ve listed some excellent cleaner choices further down this article, so use whichever you prefer. When using a store-bought cleaner, ensure you follow the label instructions.

 

4. Scrub away the grime

Put on your gloves to protect your hands, and then use a sponge to scrub away the grime around the toilet.

You can use an old toothbrush to remove any stubborn build-up in hard-to-reach areas. Toothbrushes are also handy for getting into the groove between your toilet and the floor.

 

5. Rinse off any residue

Use your sponge and the clean water in your bucket to rinse the area. You want to ensure that no traces of dirt or cleaning solution are left behind.

Leaving cleaning solution or dirt behind will reduce the sparkling shine of your clean toilet.

 

6. Dry the area

Thoroughly dry the toilet base using a clean microfibre cloth. This prevents water from collecting around the base, which would create a moisture-rich breeding ground for harmful mould in your bathroom.

 

What You Use to Clean a Toilet Base?

You can use several different products that will effectively clean the base of your toilet. This includes several DIY cleaners made from everyday household items, as well as your typical shop-bought variety.

All of our top choices and how to use each are mentioned below:

• White vinegar: To create this cleaning solution, you will need to mix equal amounts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. You can then spritz this around the base of your toilet and leave it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing it away.
• Bicarbonate of soda and water: When combined with a bit of water, bicarbonate of soda can form a mildly abrasive cleaning paste that can be spread around your toilet base. Allow it to dry for 5 minutes before continuing with your cleaning routine.
• Bicarbonate of soda and hydrogen peroxide: Bicarbonate of soda can also be combined with hydrogen peroxide to create a slightly more effective cleaning paste. This is because the ingredients react with each other, and the resultant oxidation increases the stain removal power. Leave for 5 minutes after applying for the best results.
• Bleach solution: A diluted bleach solution also makes an ideal cleaner for the area around your toilet. Simply add 30 ml of bleach to 1 litre of water, spray it around your toilet, and let it work for a few minutes before scrubbing. Be warned that bleach can damage porcelain, so ensure you are careful if you opt for this cleaner.
• Commercial cleaning products: If you would rather buy a pre-made cleaning solution, there are plenty of options that you can buy from your local store. Although most brands are chemical cleaners, more eco-friendly products are also available. Always ensure you use the cleaner according to the label instructions for the best results.

 

What Is the Stain Around the Bottom of the Toilet?

If it’s been a while since the base of your toilet has been cleaned, you may notice some discolouration. The cause of this stain will differ depending on the colour:

• Yellow stains: Yellow marks on the floor are most likely caused by urine that has run down the toilet rather than into the bowl. In some cases, ammonia or other harsh chemicals can also cause this discolouration.
• Black or brown stains: Dark stains mostly appear when the base of a toilet is damp. This can lead to mould growth or rusting of the bolts and screws in the toilet, leaving behind a black or brown residue.
• White stains: Any white build-up around the base of your toilet is likely caused by limescale. This typically occurs in hard water areas as it is quicker for mineral deposits to accumulate on a damp surface. If left for long enough, these stains can also start to turn brown.
• Blue-green stains: Blue stains are less common than those mentioned above as they are caused by copper in your water supply. This could be picked up from copper pipes or naturally occur in the water in your area.