Keeping your toilet clean doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. Many commercial toilet bowl cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both your health and the planet. Thankfully, there are plenty of effective and eco-friendly alternatives that you can easily make at home. Below are three practical examples of eco-friendly toilet bowl cleaners that are safe, effective, and budget-friendly!
This combination is a powerhouse when it comes to cleaning. The fizz from the vinegar reacts with the baking soda to help break down stains and odors in your toilet bowl.
To use this cleaner, simply sprinkle about 1 cup of baking soda evenly around the inside of the toilet bowl. Then, pour about 2 cups of vinegar into the bowl. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, which will give it time to work its magic. After waiting, take a toilet brush and scrub the bowl thoroughly, focusing on any stubborn stains. Finally, flush to rinse away the cleaning solution.
Notes: You can add a few drops of essential oil, such as tea tree or lavender, to the vinegar for a pleasant scent and extra antibacterial properties. This is one of the most effective examples of eco-friendly toilet bowl cleaners!
Citric acid is a natural cleaning agent that is excellent for removing hard water stains and mineral deposits. This makes it a great eco-friendly option for those living in areas with hard water.
To create a citric acid toilet bowl cleaner, mix 1/2 cup of citric acid powder with 1 cup of warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture around the inside of your toilet bowl, focusing on areas with stains or build-up. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the citric acid to work. Afterward, scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and flush to rinse.
Notes: Citric acid can be found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores. If you prefer, you can also use lemon juice as a natural alternative, as it contains citric acid.
For a gentler approach, you can combine essential oils with aloe vera gel for a soothing and effective toilet bowl cleaner. This option is particularly great for those who prefer a more natural fragrance.
To make this cleaner, mix 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel with 10 drops of your favorite essential oil (like eucalyptus or peppermint) in a bowl. Once mixed, apply the gel mixture around the inside of the toilet bowl. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to disinfect and neutralize odors. Then, scrub with a toilet brush and flush to rinse.
Notes: This cleaner is not only eco-friendly, but the aloe vera also helps create a protective layer that can prevent future stains. You can experiment with different essential oils to find the scent you love!
By choosing these eco-friendly alternatives, you can maintain a clean toilet while also contributing to a healthier environment. The above examples of eco-friendly toilet bowl cleaners are not only easy to prepare but also effective in keeping your bathroom fresh and clean!