The Best Toilet Bowl Cleaner To Remove Tough Stains

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Get Smarter On Architecture and Design

Get the 3-minute weekly newsletter keeping 5K+ designers in the loop.

Enter your Email to Sign up

Side-bar-footer-forum

It's almost a given that cleaning the toilet bowl is part of cleaning your bathroom; if not, your toilet will stay dirty. Toilet cleaners are among the fundamental cleaning supplies for every household. Efficient toilet bowl cleaners typically allow you to maintain your bathroom porcelain clean and spotless with little polishing and scrubbing. There's a diverse selection of toilet bowl cleaning items from gels, sprays, to liquid cleaners for the bowl.

Following this toilet bowl cleaner article will guide you and increase your chances of finding the best toilet bowl product for your needs with their pros and cons. We have also included a detailed buying guide to help you make an informed decision by understanding what to look for.

Best Toilet Bowl Cleaner

1. Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Ocean Mist

Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Clinging Bleach Gel, Ocean...
  • BLEACH TOILET BOWL CLEANER: Kills 99.9% of germs, and whitens and...
  • CLOROX TOILET CLEANER: The only Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Clorox...
  • NON-ABRASIVE DISINFECTING BLEACH CLEANER: Thick and powerful...
  • BATHROOM CLEANER: Clinging gel formula with Clorox Bleach,...
  • DEODORIZING CLEAN: Squirt bleach cleaner under and around the...

For toilet cleaning we suggest that you use Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner as it is proven to be effective in killing germs and it has a fresh scent. 

This new Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with the clinging bleach gel has made a huge difference in cleaning toilets. The gel holds well to enable us reach the textured areas and under the rim especially with no problem. One of the significant benefits of this feature is that it helps get all the tough dirt without any added strain.

From our observation, the product works well in washing the toilet and making it bright. It is also convenient to use because it is has a fresh Ocean Mist smell which makes cleaning more enjoyable. However, people with a  keen sense of smell may be put off by the smell of bleach. 

We have also been able to use it for regular cleaning and washing and this has seen us remove some hard to get rid of smells. As if to round off the washing experience, the toilet looks super clean after using this product. Though the users may desire a quicker action time or a more natural solution, it is our go-to remedy for cleanliness in our homes.

Pros:

  • Kills 99.9% of germs while disinfecting.
  • Clinging gel formula effectively tackles tough stains.
  • Easy-to-use angled nozzle reaches all areas of the bowl

Cons:

  • Strong bleach scent may not be for everyone.
  • Some may find the gel runs out quickly.
  • Not suitable for those who prefer eco-friendly products.

2. Scrubbing Bubbles Drop-Ins

Sale
Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Continuous Clean Drop-Ins,...
  • Scrubbing Bubbles Drop-Ins are just the remedy for yucky toilet...
  • Just drop a tablet into your tank to help keep your toilet bowl...
  • With every flush, your toilet enjoys glorious relief from stains...
  • Hassle-free stain and smell protection that drops right in your...
  • Bowl water not harmful to children or pets, however, it is not...

For a simple solution to keep our toilets clean, Scrubbing Bubbles Drop-Ins are a solid choice.

Since using Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Drop-Ins we discovered it to be most convenient. This is because flushing a tablet into the toilet merely means our bowl remains relatively clean for three to four weeks at most. This constant protection from limescale and minerals is more apparent and makes a remarkable change, particularly in areas with hard water.

The scent is a pleasant bonus, adding a fresh vibe every time we flush. It's nice to know that the product isn't harmful to pets or kids, though we try to discourage pets from drinking from the toilet.

Despite their effectiveness, we experienced a few limitations. It's worth noting that these tablets require a clean toilet bowl to start with; they don’t work miracles on existing stains. For a quick and easy cleaning solution that keeps the bowl blue and fresh, these drop-ins definitely have their place in our cleaning routine.

Pros:

  • Easy to use, just drop in and flush.
  • Effective in preventing stains and freshening up the bowl.
  • Each tablet lasts up to four weeks.

Cons:

  • Requires a clean toilet before use for best results.
  • May not completely eliminate tough stains.
  • Some users noted a shorter lifespan than expected.

3. Lysol Power Toilet Cleaner

Sale
Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel, For Cleaning and...
  • KILLS 99.9% OF BATHROOM VIRUSES AND BACTERIA: Lysol Power Toilet...
  • POWERFUL STAIN REMOVAL: This cleaner powers through tough stains...
  • GERM KILLING FORMULA: The thick clinging gel coats the entire...
  • FAST ACTION GEL LIQUID CLEANER: Easy to use angled bottle makes...
  • LEADERS IN DISINFECTION: Looking for some of our other best...

This product effectively cleans and disinfects our toilets, making it a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable cleaner.

It has now become quite normal for us to use the Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner. The thick gel applies well on the surface of the toilet bowl and is capable of dealing with some of the toughest stains and rings. Once applied under the rim, we realized that it reaches even small difficult to reach areas effectively.

The above powerful formulation not only removes dirt but also gives our toilets that sparkling appearance. As much as it removes all the bacteria from the bathroom, we like that it eliminates 99.9% of the common bathroom germs which makes us feel secure concerning detoxification. The smell of the Atlantic is fresh and fragrant, though those who seek a fragrance that is even more subtle may not be fully satisfied.

That said, we did find the bottle cap design could use some improvement for easier pouring. Overall, the performance outweighs this minor inconvenience. For anyone serious about maintaining a clean and sanitized toilet, this cleaner proves to be a valuable addition to our cleaning supplies.

Pros:

  • Kills 99.9% of bathroom viruses and bacteria.
  • Thick gel formula clings to surfaces for thorough cleaning.
  • Angled bottle makes it easy to reach difficult areas.

Cons:

  • The cap design may not be the most user-friendly.
  • Some users might find the scent less appealing.
  • A bit pricier compared to other options on the market.

4. MRS. MEYER’S CLEAN DAY Liquid Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Sale
MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Liquid Toilet Bowl Cleaner,...
  • Effective and powerful toilet cleaner formula freshens and...
  • Toilet bowl cleaner is made with essential oils, plant-derived...
  • Made without phthalates, chlorine or mineral acids
  • A septic safe & biodegradable formula toilet cleaner
  • Mrs. Meyer's products are made with cruelty-free formulas and are...

MRS. MEYER’S CLEAN DAY Liquid Toilet Bowl Cleaner is an environmental friendly cleaning product that is intended to keep toilets clean without using chemicals. This cleaner is from the Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day product line, which is in the business of developing cleaners that work well but are also friendly to the environment.

It is an ideal pick for anyone who is on a search of cleaning product which is gentle and biodegradable. It is suitable for anyone who has to attain a cleaner bathroom but at the same time who has to consider their safety or the environment. However, if you are in need of a stronger cleaner then this won't work for you. 

Pros:

  • Works great for light cleaning.
  • Budget-friendly.
  • Convenient

Cons:

  • The product does not work well with stubborn stains.

5. Amazon Basics Toilet Bowl Cleaner Cling Action Formula with Bleach

Sale
Amazon Basics Toilet Bowl Cleaner Cling Action Formula...
  • 1 bottle of Toilet Bowl Cleaner Cling Action Formula with Bleach
  • Powerful cling-action bleach formula provides deep cleaning as it...
  • Not formulated to be a thick gel, this is a medium viscosity...
  • Removes tough stains after brushing, leaving behind a fresh clean...
  • Angled neck on squeeze bottle applicator easily reaches under...

Amazon Basics Toilet Bowl Cleaner Cling Action Formula with Bleach is a budget-friendly cleaning solution designed to tackle tough stains and maintain toilet hygiene. The product is marketed under Amazon's "Basics" line, known for offering affordable alternatives to everyday essentials.

The cleaner has a thick gel-like formation and tends to stick by the rough side of the toilet bowl. This cling action helps the product remain in contact with the surface longer so as to allow the bleach and cleaning agents to dissolve the stains and dirt.

The content of bleach makes this cleaner a potent disinfectant as well. It helps in killing germs and bacteria which eradicate odors and guarantee that the toilet bowl is thoroughly cleaned. The bleach also whitens the toilet bowl and makes it to look clean as new.

Pros:

  • Can easily reach under the rim.
  • Gets rid of stains caused by hard water.
  • Fresh scent

Cons:

  • The results don't last long.

What to Consider when Purchasing the Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners

1. Ingredients Used

The choice of ingredients should be eco-friendly even though the eco-friendly products are very costly. When using eco-friendly cleaners, you might not get the best results since the toxic ingredients needed to remove stains and sanitize the toilet bowl have been removed. However, these eco-friendly plant-based products are necessary, especially if you have small children or pets, and also they break down instantly in water, avoiding any clogging issues. Brands like Better Life rely on plant-based ingredients, like tea tree oil and lactic acid, and some great alternatives to bleach formula are hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid.

2. Nature of the Stain

Toilet bowl cleaners vary depending on the nature of the stain, permanence, and severity according to the ingredients that have been used. Ensure you read the product description to check what ingredients have been used.

Before you purchase your toilet bowl cleaner, make sure you have confirmed how severe your stains are so that you can buy an appropriate detergent. You can also read some toilet bowl cleaner customer reviews online because the feedback will inform you on what kind of stains the toilet bowl cleaning agent is effective against. Look for cleaners specific to your stains; for example, hard water stains or hard water build-up and rust work best with cleaners made for rust stains.

3. All-in-One Products

The best toilet bowl cleaners should do everything right from disinfecting to cleaning, but few products can do both effectively, so you should buy two separate products. Using different product formulas for stain removal, protection, and a disinfectant may help you achieve better results. However, keep in mind that when certain ingredients mix, they can cause toxic releases.

4. Application/ Delivery System

Different toilet cleaners have different application types, and you should choose according to your preference. For example, Drop-in tablets are ideal for people who don't like scrubbing toilet bowls as it dissolves cutting the hardened grime and mineral upon contact. However, these tablets as a toilet cleaner sometimes damage the flush valve and rubber components in your tank.

Sprays may be a quick solution, but they don't offer the same coverage the angled squirt bottles of toilet cleaners have. On the other hand, the hanger and gel toilet bowl cleaner will quickly go with the flush water flow, but they aren't as effective and powerful. No matter how good these gel and hanger cleaners are, their formula works better for hygiene maintenance than cleaning the toilet bowl. The cartridge technology is another option that directly injects the solution into the overflow tube of the flush valve.

Other options make it easy to scrub because you don't have to clean and re-use them afterward, and you dispose of them, which helps to get rid of any ground for bacteria. You don't want to get a toilet bowl cleaner that is complicated to install and use, that you end up needing machines and tools. This helps you speed up the usage process and achieve results.

5. Health considerations

Some of the best toilet cleaners have potent formulas and, as a result, can cause damage to the skin, eroding tissues and hands, and also cause vomiting. It would help if you didn't have to get unnecessary safety concerns and health conditions due to a toilet bowl cleaner.

6. Life Expectancy

How long you want your cleaning solution results to last should dictate what kind of product you go for. You should purchase a cleaning agent that is strong enough to last you for the period you want. To get the best cleaning products for your needs, read the information on the packaging and the label.

Also, how long cleaning agents last vary on the type because some like tablets, cartridge technology, and gels that go in the toilet tank usually last from a week to a few months. The information of how long they will last you will also be on the label.

7. Viscosity

People whose job is to do good housekeeping have reported that liquid cleaners are more effective in cleaning than the time they spend on the toilet bowl. How thick the cleaning agents are, determines how much time they spend on the bowl. Thin cleaners will run down the toilet water before starting your cleaning, but gel cleaners will stay longer on the toilet bowl. Remember this point when shopping for the best toilet cleaner for your bathroom.

8. Price

Toilet bowl cleaners vary in price depending on the brand and size. Therefore, before you purchase a toilet bowl cleaner for your bathroom, ensure you have set a budget. The budget will help you narrow down your list of options while choosing the best product for your toilet bowl without breaking your pocket.

9. Fragrance

To keep your toilet fresh, toilet cleaners come in various fragrances, from eucalyptus, lemon, citrus to sandalwood and even spearmint. Decide the fragrance you would want and purchase a toilet cleaner of the fragrance but make sure no one in the household is allergic to the fragrance you choose for your toilet bowl cleaner.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are bleach tablets bad for your toilet?

Bleach tablets have been reported to damage the rubber seals inside your toilet, causing toilet leaks and other issues if used regularly.

2. How do I remove brown stains from the toilet bowl?

Many of the best toilet bowl cleaners insist on having stain-fighting cleaning power to stop the toughest of stains. However, if you’re looking for a DIY option, try using the white vinegar and borax mixture, and let it sit for a few hours then wipe clean. You can also use a cup of baking soda and vinegar and use your toilet brush to scrub, stir it in and leave it to soak overnight. Baking soda works wonders with stained on yellowed bristles and at the same time remove any odor.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Related Articles
best steam mop for laminate floors

The Best Steam Mop for Laminate Floors

A steam mop is excellent for a thorough deep cleaning session. It is a perfect tool that you can use ...

bathroom cabinet colors

20 Best Bathroom Cabinet Colors for an Elegant Look

Bathrooms are some of the most functional areas of the home, but that does not mean that they should look ...

Best Color for Bathroom Interior and How to Match Them

Choosing the best color for your bathroom interior can transform it from a simple functional space into a relaxing sanctuary. ...