After doing the work of scrubbing and cleaning the toilet bowl, toilet brushes themselves can become breeding grounds for germs. Hence, the brushes need to be disinfected after they’ve done their job.
In this piece, we’ll look at the most effective method to clean toilet brushes and all the tips you need to do it right.
7 Easy Steps to Clean a Toilet Brush
While there are many ways to clean a toilet brush, these cleaning tips will help to deep clean and disinfect your toilet brush.
Step 1. Gather supplies
Cleaning supplies make cleaning easier and faster. They also help with dispelling germs and bacteria from surfaces. You would need the following supplies:
- Bleach
- Disinfectant spray
- Rubber gloves
- A bucket
- Hot water
- An old toothbrush or scrub brush
Step 2. Prepare the bleach solution
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that effectively kills germs and bacteria.
- Fill the bucket with one gallon of hot water
- Add 1/2 cup of bleach to the water
- stir the solution to ensure the bleach is thoroughly mixed
Step 3. Soak the brush
Place the toilet brush into the bleach solution, ensuring that it is fully submerged. Leave the brush head to soak in hot water for at least 30 minutes. This allows the bleach to penetrate the bristles and kill bacteria. Please wear a rubber glove for this step.
Step 4. Scrub the brush
After soaking, use an old toothbrush or small scrub brush to clean the handle and base of the toilet brush. Pay close attention to stains and other spots with built-up grout. Continue this process until the brush is clean.
Step 5. Rinse the brush
Rinse the toilet brush thoroughly under hot running water to remove any lingering stains. It is essential to rinse well because any remnant of bleach could degrade the bristles with time.
Step 6. Dry the brush
Shake off the excess water and ensure the brush handle is not slimy. Air-dry the brush in a well-ventilated area, and ensure the toilet brush dries completely before storing. Proper drying prevents mold and mildew from growing on the head of the brush.
Step 7. Disinfect the toilet brush holder
Don’t forget to clean the holder with hot, soapy water. Wipe with a microfiber cloth and let it air dry completely before placing the clean, dry toilet brush back in the holder.
When to Replace a Toilet Brush
Worn out bristles
If the bristles on your toilet brush are bent, frayed, or falling out, it’s time for a replacement. Worn-out bristles are less effective at scrubbing and cleaning the toilet bowl.
Persistent odor
A foul smell coming from your toilet brush that doesn’t go away after cleaning indicates that bacteria and mold have built up inside the brush. Replacing it is the best option.
Discoloration
If the bristles of your toilet brush are heavily discolored or stained, it’s a sign that the brush is past its prime. Discoloration can indicate that the brush is harboring bacteria.
Mold or mildew
Visible mold or mildew growth on your toilet brush is a clear sign that it needs to be replaced. These fungi can cause health issues and spread to other parts of your bathroom.
Usage duration
Even if your toilet brush doesn’t show any visible signs of wear, it’s a good idea to replace it every six months to a year, depending on how often you use it. Regular replacement ensures maximum cleaning efficiency and hygiene.
Additional Tips for Keeping your Toilet Brushes Clean
Ensure regular maintenance
To keep your toilet brush in top condition, you need to make disinfection a regular part of your cleaning routine. As you clean the toilet seats, faucets, and plungers, ensure to clean your toilet brush. Make a practice of cleaning toilets once a week.
Proper storage
Store your toilet brush in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold and mildew growth. Use a holder that allows for adequate drainage and airflow.
Use vinegar
If you prefer natural products to clean your toilet brush, white vinegar can be an effective alternative to bleach. Vinegar has disinfecting properties that help keep toilet brushes sanitary. Let the toilet brush soak in a bucket of hot water mixed with a cup of white vinegar.
Replace a toilet brush
Toilet brushes should be replaced periodically. Over time, the bristles can wear out and become less effective. The general rule of thumb to replace a toilet brush is every 6 months to a year.
Keeping the toilet clean
Maintaining a clean and organized toilet can help reduce the frequency of deep cleaning for your toilet brushes. Use a toilet seat disinfectant spray, spray the toilet brush after every use, and flush the toilet before using the toilet brush.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Toilet Brush
Cleaning a plunger is not a glamorous task, but it is an essential one. Plungers come into direct contact with toilet water and waste, making them a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and germs. Regular cleaning helps to prevent the spread of these germs around the bathroom.
The process of cleaning a plunger is quite similar to the process of cleaning a toilet brush. However, leave the plunger in hot bleach water for only 20 minutes. While toilet brushes are made from bristles, plungers are made from a rubber material that may degrade faster.
Using too much Bleach
While bleach is an excellent disinfectant, using too much can damage the bristles of your toilet brush and can be harmful to your health. Other alternative cleaning agents include hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.
Neglecting the holder
The toilet brush and holder are both equally important. Remember, the holder can harbor just as many germs as the brush itself. Always clean and disinfect the toilet brush holder.
Inadequate drying
Failing to dry the toilet brush properly can lead to mold and mildew growth. Always ensure the brush is completely dry before storing it to maintain its cleanliness and longevity.
The Role Of Regular Cleaning
Keeping a clean and organized bathroom extends beyond disinfecting your toilet brushes. Regularly clean the toilet, toilet seat, and surrounding areas to minimize the spread of germs.
A thorough cleaning routine includes scrubbing the bowl, wiping down surfaces, and ensuring that all cleaning tools, including toilet brushes, are kept in pristine condition.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean and organized bathroom goes beyond just cleaning the toilet. Keeping your plunger and toilet brush clean and knowing when to replace a toilet brush are crucial steps in ensuring a hygienic environment.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively clean and disinfect your plunger and toilet brush, extending their lifespan and maintaining a healthier bathroom.
