How to Clean a Toilet Bowl (Step-by-Step for a Sparkling Result)

Cleaning the toilet bowl is one of those tasks that's easy to put off — but a clean toilet bowl takes less than 10 minutes and makes the entire bathroom feel fresher. Here's the right technique for a thorough clean every time.

What You'll Need

• Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel — bleach-free, clings to the bowl surface for deep cleaning and disinfecting
• OXO Good Grips Compact Toilet Brush — compact design with automatic canister door, ideal for small bathrooms
• Rubber gloves
• Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
• All-purpose disinfectant spray

How Often Should You Clean the Toilet Bowl?

At least once a week for households in regular use. More frequently if you have children, multiple users, or notice staining or odors developing.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Toilet Bowl

Step 1: Apply Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Put on rubber gloves. Apply Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel under the rim of the bowl, squeezing the bottle so the gel coats the entire inner rim. Let it drip down the sides of the bowl. Let sit for at least 5 minutes — or up to 10 minutes for heavier staining.

Step 2: Scrub the Bowl

Using the OXO toilet brush, scrub the entire interior of the bowl:

• Start under the rim — this is where bacteria and mineral deposits accumulate most
• Scrub the sides of the bowl in circular motions
• Scrub the bottom of the bowl and the drain opening
• Push the brush into the drain opening to clean the trap

Step 3: Flush

Flush the toilet to rinse away the cleaner and loosened debris. Hold the brush in the flush water to rinse it before returning to the canister.

Step 4: Clean the Exterior

Spray all-purpose disinfectant on the exterior — the tank, lid, seat (top and bottom), bowl exterior, and base. Wipe with a microfiber cloth from top to bottom, finishing with the base.

Step 5: Clean the Toilet Brush

Spray the brush with disinfectant and let it air dry before returning to the canister. Replace the brush every 6–12 months.

Tips for a Cleaner Toilet Between Cleanings

• Drop a toilet cleaning tablet in the tank — releases cleaner with every flush
• Wipe the seat and exterior daily with a disinfectant wipe
• Close the lid before flushing — prevents bacteria from aerosolizing onto surfaces

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best toilet bowl cleaner?

Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel is highly effective — bleach-free, clings to the bowl for extended contact time, and disinfects without harsh fumes. For heavy limescale, CLR or a pumice stone may be needed.

How do I get rid of the brown ring in the toilet bowl?

Brown rings are caused by mineral deposits and bacteria. Apply toilet bowl cleaner and let sit for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing. For stubborn rings, use a pumice stone — it removes mineral deposits without scratching porcelain.

Is it safe to mix toilet bowl cleaner with bleach?

Never mix toilet bowl cleaners with bleach or other cleaning products — this can produce toxic chlorine gas. Use one product at a time and rinse thoroughly between applications.