How To Clean Toilet Tank With Baking Soda | 6 Pro Ways

In my 10 years of experience working in the plumbing field, I have come across various methods to clean a toilet tank.

One method that has proven to be effective is using baking soda. This versatile household ingredient can be used to tackle stains, eliminate odors, and maintain a clean tank.

By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I hope to provide you with valuable insights on how to effectively clean your toilet tank using baking soda.

Let’s explore the steps and tips that can help you achieve a sparkling clean toilet tank without the use of harsh chemicals.

Is It Safe To Put Baking Soda In Toilet Tank?

I know, many people have confusion that putting baking soda is safe for the toilet tank or not. Right?

Well, for those people let me tell you that, Putting baking soda in the toilet tank is generally safe and can have some benefits. Baking soda can help neutralize odors, break down stains, and act as a gentle cleaning agent. 

However, it’s important to note that adding baking soda to the tank may not be as effective as directly applying it to the bowl or using other cleaning methods. 

Additionally, if you have a septic system, excessive use of baking soda in the tank may disrupt the balance of bacteria in the system.

It’s always a good idea to follow manufacturer recommendations and consult a professional if you have any concerns.

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How Much Baking Soda Do You Put In A Toilet?

Now you must be confused with the amount of baking soda that you need to use in a toilet. Well here again I would love to guide you.

When using baking soda to clean your toilet, you can start with a moderate amount and adjust as needed. Here’s a simple method you can try:

Sprinkle around 1/2 to 1 cup of baking soda evenly around the inside of the toilet bowl. Use a toilet brush to spread the baking soda and scrub the bowl, focusing on areas with stains or buildup.

Let the baking soda sit for about 15-30 minutes to allow it to work its cleaning properties. After the designated time, scrub the bowl again with the toilet brush.

Finally, flush the toilet to rinse away the baking soda and any loosened debris.

Remember, these measurements are approximate, and you can adjust the amount of baking soda based on your cleaning needs.

It’s always a good idea to refer to the product instructions or consult professional recommendations if you have any specific concerns.

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How Long Can You Leave Baking Soda In Toilet?

You can leave baking soda in the toilet for a period of time to allow it to work its cleaning properties.

It is generally recommended to let the baking soda sit for about 15 to 30 minutes before scrubbing and flushing. 

This timeframe allows the baking soda to break down stains and odors effectively.

However, if you prefer to leave it for a longer duration, it is generally safe to do so. Just ensure that the baking soda does not dry out completely, as it may become less effective.

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What Does Pouring Baking Soda In Your Toilet Tank Do?

Do you ever think, why its recommended to pour baking soda in toilet tank? If you are a cleaning nerd (like me) you must.

So let’s me tell you that, pouring baking soda directly into the toilet tank can serve a few purposes:

1. Odor control
2. Cleaning
3. pH balance

1. Odor Control: Baking soda has natural deodorizing properties, so adding it to the tank can help neutralize unpleasant smells that may arise from the toilet.

2. Cleaning: Baking soda can help break down stains and mineral deposits in the toilet tank, making it easier to clean and maintain.

3. pH Balance: Baking soda can act as a mild alkaline substance, which may help balance the pH levels in the water and reduce the risk of acidic conditions that can contribute to corrosion.

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of baking soda in the tank may vary, and it may not be as effective as direct application to the toilet bowl.

If you have specific concerns or issues with your toilet, it’s best to consult professional advice or refer to manufacturer recommendations.

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6 Ways To Clean Toilet Tank 

1) Vinegar and Baking Soda Scrub

Cleaning the toilet tank using vinegar and baking soda scrub is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Start by turning off the water supply to the toilet tank. Locate the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water.

Step 2: Flush the toilet once or twice to drain most of the water from the tank. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step 3: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle or bucket. You can use distilled white vinegar for this purpose.

Step 4: Spray or pour the vinegar solution into the toilet tank, ensuring that it reaches all the surfaces.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Stir it until you achieve a thick consistency.

Step 6: Apply the baking soda paste to the interior surfaces of the toilet tank, including the walls, corners, and any areas with stains or buildup. Use a scrub brush or sponge to gently scrub the surfaces.

Step 7: Allow the vinegar and baking soda mixture to sit in the tank for about 15-30 minutes to allow the cleaning action to take place.

Step 8: After the designated time, scrub the tank again to loosen any remaining deposits.

Step 9: Turn on the water supply to the toilet tank and flush multiple times to rinse out the vinegar and baking soda mixture.

Step 10: Finally, inspect the tank for any remaining stains or deposits. If necessary, repeat the process or use a specific toilet cleaner for targeted stain removal.

Remember to always follow safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and ensuring proper ventilation when working with cleaning agents.

2) Vinegar Soak

To clean a toilet tank using a vinegar soak, follow these steps:

Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the toilet tank by locating the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turning it clockwise.

Step 2: Flush the toilet to drain most of the water from the tank. You can use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step 3: Pour undiluted white vinegar into the toilet tank until it reaches the fill line. Ensure that the vinegar covers the interior surfaces of the tank.

Step 4: Let the vinegar sit in the tank for at least 1 to 2 hours, allowing it to dissolve mineral deposits, stains, and odors.

Step 5: While the vinegar is soaking, you can clean the exterior of the toilet tank, the toilet bowl, or other parts of the bathroom if desired.

Step 6: After the soaking period, scrub the interior surfaces of the tank using a toilet brush or sponge to remove any remaining deposits.

Step 7: Turn on the water supply to the toilet tank and flush multiple times to rinse out the vinegar.

Step 8: Check the tank for any remaining stains or deposits. If necessary, repeat the process or use a specific toilet cleaner for targeted stain removal.

Remember to follow safety precautions and proper ventilation when working with vinegar.

I also advised to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or professional advice if you have any concerns about the cleaning process.

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3) Baking Soda, Vinegar, and Dish Soap

To clean a toilet tank using a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap, follow these steps:

Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the toilet tank by locating the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turning it clockwise.

Step 2: Flush the toilet to drain most of the water from the tank. You can use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step 3: Sprinkle baking soda around the interior surfaces of the toilet tank, paying extra attention to areas with stains or buildup.

Step 4: In a spray bottle, mix equal parts vinegar and water. Spray the vinegar solution onto the baking soda in the toilet tank, ensuring it covers all the surfaces.

Step 5: Add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture in the tank. The dish soap helps break down grease and grime.

Step 6: Let the baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap mixture sit in the tank for at least 1 to 2 hours to allow it to dissolve deposits and neutralize odors.

Step 7: Use a toilet brush or sponge to scrub the interior surfaces of the tank, focusing on areas with stains or buildup. Ensure to scrub all the corners and hard-to-reach spots.

Step 8: Turn on the water supply to the toilet tank and flush multiple times to rinse out the cleaning mixture.

Step 9: Inspect the tank for any remaining stains or deposits. If necessary, repeat the process or use a specific toilet cleaner for targeted stain removal.

Remember to follow safety precautions and proper ventilation when working with cleaning agents.

Additionally, I must recommend to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or professional advice if you have any concerns about the cleaning process.

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4) Vinegar and Borax

To clean a toilet tank using vinegar and borax, follow these steps:

Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the toilet tank by locating the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turning it clockwise.

Step 2: Flush the toilet to drain most of the water from the tank. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step 3: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle or bucket. You can use distilled white vinegar for this purpose.

Step 4: Spray or pour the vinegar solution into the toilet tank, ensuring that it covers all the surfaces.

Step 5: Sprinkle borax around the interior surfaces of the toilet tank, focusing on areas with stains or buildup.

Step 6: Let the vinegar and borax mixture sit in the tank for at least 1 to 2 hours to allow it to dissolve deposits and disinfect.

Step 7: Use a toilet brush or sponge to scrub the interior surfaces of the tank, paying extra attention to areas with stains or buildup.

Step 8: Turn on the water supply to the toilet tank and flush multiple times to rinse out the cleaning mixture.

Step 9: Inspect the tank for any remaining stains or deposits. If necessary, repeat the process or use a specific toilet cleaner for targeted stain removal.

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5) DIY Baking Soda Tank Tablet

Okay so this one method is my favorite because to apply this method we need to make DIY baking soda tank tablets.

No no don’t worry I am also going to share how you goanna make this DIY tablets. Just stay with me and follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather the necessary ingredients: baking soda, citric acid, water, and optional essential oils for fragrance.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of citric acid. Stir the mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Gradually add water to the mixture, a little at a time, while stirring continuously. The goal is to achieve a wet sand-like consistency that can hold its shape when compressed.

Step 4: If desired, add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture for a pleasant scent. Stir well to distribute the fragrance evenly.

Step 5: Transfer the mixture into a silicone mold or ice cube tray, pressing it down firmly to compact the tablets.

Step 6: Allow the tablets to dry and harden for at least 24 hours or until completely solid.

Step 7: Once the tablets are ready, drop one or two into the toilet tank. The tablets will slowly dissolve over time, releasing the cleaning agents.

Step 8: Let the tablets sit in the tank for several hours or overnight to allow them to work their cleaning magic.

Step 9: Flush the toilet a few times to ensure that any residue from the tablets is flushed away.

Please note that homemade tank tablets may not have the same potency as commercially available options.

If you encounter persistent stains or issues with your toilet tank, it may be best to consider professional cleaning or use dedicated toilet cleaning products.

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6) Baking Soda And Baking Powder

To clean a toilet tank using baking soda and baking powder, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Locate the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turn it clockwise to turn off the water supply.

Step 2: Flush the toilet to drain most of the water from the tank. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step 3: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda around the interior surfaces of the toilet tank, paying extra attention to areas with stains or buildup.

Step 4: Sprinkle a smaller amount of baking powder over the baking soda.

Baking powder contains baking soda and additional ingredients like cream of tartar, which can enhance the cleaning effect.

Step 5: Let the baking soda and baking powder mixture sit in the tank for at least 1 to 2 hours, allowing them to break down deposits and neutralize odors.

Step 6: Use a toilet brush or sponge to scrub the interior surfaces of the tank, focusing on areas with stains or buildup. Ensure to scrub all the corners and hard-to-reach spots.

Step 7: Turn on the water supply to the toilet tank and flush multiple times to rinse out the cleaning mixture.

Step 8: Inspect the tank for any remaining stains or deposits. If necessary, repeat the process or use a specific toilet cleaner for targeted stain removal.

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Bottom Line

In conclusion, using baking soda to clean your toilet tank can be an effective and safe method. Its natural cleaning properties help break down stains and neutralize odors.

Remember to follow the recommended steps and consider consulting professional advice for specific concerns or persistent issues.

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