The Dirtiest Job in the House

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

20 Jan 2011 11:30 PM

You can learn a lot by watching TV. Just the other day I discovered that you come into contact with more bacteria while cleaning out a fish bowl than disinfecting a dirty toilet. In addition, according to the PBS kids' show my daughter had on while I was making breakfast, the average refrigerator door handle harbors more germs than the bathroom floor.

Thanks, Fetch!

Kids' show science facts aside, in my opinion, cleaning toilets is the dirtiest job in the house. I can't stand dealing with rings above the water line. The unsightly rings around the toilet are typically caused by a build-up of rust, calcium, lime or mold. Fortunately, most dirt and bacteria can be eliminated by using commercial toilet bowl cleaners. I have found success using the following brands:

Clorox

Lysol

Scrubbing Bubbles

Comet

Mr. Clean

In addition, using a mixture of white vinegar and water on toilet bowl rings can often erase them temporarily. Another option is to use straight chlorine bleach, though if you go this route, be sure to open windows to avoid fume build-up and wear protective gloves. For extra stubborn toilet bowl stains, you may have to use a straight edge razor or natural pumice stone to scrape away gross spots or rings. If you are forced to use a razor or pumice stone, I would suggest scraping small areas at a time to avoid damaging your toilet bowl.

In addition to regularly cleaning the inside of the toilet bowl, you should also disinfect the outside. Spray the top and sides of the tank, handle, lid and seat with a multi-purpose cleaner, then wipe them down using a soft rag. Don't forget to clean the bottom of the toilet after you mop the floor surrounding the bowl, as dirt can be transferred from the floor to the base of the toilet during the mopping process.

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger