Since vinegar is acidic and baking soda is basic, when used together, they react to form carbon dioxide bubbles that can lift away grime. This is a simple reaction that won’t leave behind any harmful chemicals. [2] X Research source Avoid vinegar types that are not clear in color since they can cause stains. [3] X Research source Baking soda is especially useful for eliminating odors in the bathroom since it absorbs smells from both water and the air. You can also use it in other places in your home when you need a natural deodorizer. [4] X Research source
When exposed to water, borax turns into hydrogen peroxide, which will naturally whiten surfaces. Even though it isn’t a harsh chemical, borax can be dangerous when ingested, so be careful to keep it out of the reach of children and pets. [6] X Research source
While you should clean your toilet regularly, disinfecting it can be done less often. Cleaning removes dirt, grime, and other substances, while disinfection is used to eliminate all germs. [8] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Instead of rubbing alcohol, you can also use more concentrated isopropyl alcohol. If you do so, wear gloves for safety. Prolonged contact with skin can cause irritation. If you end up spilling isopropyl alcohol on your bare skin, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. [9] X Research source Baking soda, borax, and vinegar do have disinfectant properties, but you’ll have to turn to rubbing or isopropyl alcohol in order to eliminate as many germs as possible while still using natural and safe products. [10] X Research source
Don’t be afraid of applying too much baking soda. Unlike bleach and some other harsher chemicals, baking soda is completely safe for septic systems. [13] X Research source
If you want to add a fresh scent to your bathroom, you can add concentrated fruit essences or other aromatics to the vinegar at this point. [15] X Research source
If you want to do an even deeper cleaning of your toilet tank, you can drain and scrub the tank after flushing the vinegar. To drain the tank, you’ll first have to turn off the water supply valve, located on the wall behind your toilet. Flush in order to empty the tank, then use a toilet bowl scrubber or steel wool to scrub the tank. Any grime should come off easily after having been loosened by the vinegar. [21] X Research source
Besides this, plenty of products are available that automatically dispense bleach and detergents into your toilet bowl or the water through the upper deck. [23] X Research source If the water quality in your area is not good and can stain the toilet bowl, you can get an auto-dispensing product and keep it in the upper deck of the toilet. [24] X Research source You should also make it a habit to scrub the inside of the toilet with a brush regularly. [25] X Research source
