A Plumber Taught Me This Trick for Cleaning Cisterns and Toilets – WITHOUT CHEMICALS

When it comes to keeping your toilet clean, most people immediately think of strong chemical cleaners. While they may be effective, they often come with harsh fumes, environmental concerns, and potential damage to plumbing over time. Fortunately, a plumber once shared with me an amazing trick for cleaning cisterns and toilets without using any chemicals. It’s simple, effective, and surprisingly easy!

Why Avoid Chemicals?

Commercial toilet cleaners contain strong acids and bleach, which can corrode pipes, harm septic systems, and introduce toxins into waterways. Additionally, they create harsh fumes that can be harmful to breathe, especially in poorly ventilated bathrooms. If you have pets or children, avoiding chemicals is even more crucial for their safety.

The Plumber’s Trick

This method uses only natural and mechanical cleaning techniques to remove grime, stains, and buildup from both the cistern and the toilet bowl. Here’s what you need:

• White vinegar (optional, but recommended)
• Baking soda (optional, for stubborn stains)
• A toilet brush or scrub brush
• An old toothbrush (for small areas)
• A sponge or cloth
• Warm water

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Clean the Cistern

The cistern is often overlooked in toilet cleaning, but it can accumulate sediment, mineral deposits, and even bacteria. Here’s how to clean it without chemicals:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet by shutting off the valve usually located behind or beneath the tank.
2. Flush the toilet to empty the cistern as much as possible.
3. Use warm water and a sponge to wipe down the inside walls of the cistern. If there’s mineral buildup, gently scrub with an old toothbrush.
4. For stubborn stains, fill the cistern with warm water and add a few cups of white vinegar. Let it sit for an hour, then scrub any remaining buildup.
5. Turn the water back on and flush several times to rinse.

2. Clean the Toilet Bowl

Now that the cistern is clean, let’s tackle the toilet bowl:

1. Pour a generous amount of warm water into the bowl to loosen grime and stains.
2. Scrub the bowl with a toilet brush, paying special attention to the waterline and under the rim.
3. For stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda around the bowl, then scrub. If you used vinegar in the cistern, any leftover in the system will react with the baking soda to help break down stains.
4. Use an old toothbrush to clean the base of the bowl, hinges, and crevices where grime can accumulate.
5. Flush thoroughly to rinse everything away.

Additional Maintenance Tips

• Regularly add vinegar to the cistern to prevent mineral buildup. Once a month, add two cups of white vinegar, let it sit for an hour, and flush.
• Scrub the toilet bowl weekly to keep stains from forming.
• Wipe down external surfaces daily to maintain cleanliness.

Final Thoughts

This plumber’s trick is a fantastic way to keep your toilet and cistern clean without relying on harsh chemicals. It’s safe, environmentally friendly, and just as effective as store-bought cleaners. Give it a try, and you’ll be amazed at how fresh and spotless your toilet stays!