The toilet is one of the most-used fixtures in any home and one of the least enjoyable to clean. But keeping it fresh is essential for hygiene and comfort. Toilets accumulate mineral deposits, bacteria and rust rings over time due to hard water commonly found in many Australian regions. 

Identifying the type of stain helps you choose the most effective cleaning method from the start. If you’re wondering how to clean stains from a toilet or struggling with how to clean a stained toilet bowl, you’re in the right place.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to how to clean a toilet effectively, including tips for tackling tough stains that just won’t budge.

How to clean stains from a toilet: Essentials

Before you start, gather a few things:

• Toilet brush
• Rubber gloves
• Disinfectant cleaner or toilet-specific solution
• Baking soda and white vinegar (for natural cleaning)
• Pumice stone (for stubborn stains)
• Microfibre cloths or disposable wipes

Step-by-step guide to clean a toilet: 

1. Flush the toilet. Start with clean water in the bowl.
2. Apply cleaner. Squeeze the toilet cleaner under the rim and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
3. If you prefer natural cleaners, a mix of baking soda and castile soap creates a mild abrasive that is safe for porcelain.
4. Scrub with a toilet brush. Focus on under the rim and around the water line.
5. Wipe external surfaces. Use disinfectant to clean the seat, lid and handle.
6. Flush again and check if stains are gone. If not, look for deeper cleaning methods.

Deep cleaning a heavily stained toilet bowl

Some stains require more targeted treatment than regular scrubbing. Here’s how to handle them:

• Hard water stains: Sprinkle baking soda into the bowl, pour in vinegar and let it fizz for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing.
• For extremely stubborn hard water marks, let the vinegar sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing and repeat the cycle twice. This extended dwell time is often recommended for older toilets with deep mineral build-up.
• Rust stains: Use a pumice stone gently on the stain and be careful not to scratch the porcelain.
• Alternatively, apply a paste of lemon juice and baking soda, which can help lift discolouration without harsh chemicals
• General discolouration: Repeat the baking soda and vinegar method weekly to prevent build-up.

For persistent stains, a professional deep clean can save time and reduce the risk of surface damage. Book house cleaning experts on Bark for a sparkling result.

Note: If toilet stains keep returning despite regular cleaning, it may indicate mineral-heavy water or ventilation issues. A trusted cleaning professional can assess and treat persistent staining safely.

How to clean a stained toilet bowl

If your toilet bowl is particularly stained:

• Empty most of the water by turning off the cistern and flushing.
• Apply baking soda, vinegar or a specialist toilet cleaner directly to the stains.
• Leave overnight for maximum effect.
• Scrub thoroughly in the morning and flush.

This deep method often restores even the toughest stains.

When to call in the professionals

Sometimes toilets (and bathrooms generally) need more than a DIY scrub. Bark connects you with:

• House cleaning services for regular upkeep
• End of tenancy cleaning experts to meet rental bond requirements
• Lawyers and solicitors for tenancy disputes relating to cleanliness
• Wills and estate planning professionals to help secure your property and family assets once you own a home

Final word

Knowing how to clean stains from a toilet and keeping up with weekly scrubs makes a huge difference in your bathroom’s freshness. For tougher jobs, methods like baking soda, vinegar or pumice stones can restore a stained toilet bowl to look new.

And when you need extra help, whether it’s regular house cleaning or a deep end of tenancy clean, Bark helps you hire the right professional every time.