The Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners of 2023 – Ultimate Guide
Because the liquid is light in color, we found it a bit hard to see where the solution was applied and often ended up adding more to make sure the entire toilet bowl was covered. This may lead you to go through the product faster than necessary. Also worth noting: Bleach isn’t effective on rust stains, so if that’s your issue, it’s best to select a cleaner that is formulated to remove rust.
10 Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners, Tested by Experts
It’s a dirty job, but it’s a lot easier with the right cleaners and tools.
You think laundry day is bad? Try cleaning the toilet. It’s no surprise this kind of scrubbing action is an overwhelmingly despised task, but it’s a necessary evil to keep your home clean and your family healthy. And thankfully, having an effective, fast-working arsenal of toilet bowl cleaners on hand can make the dirty job a lot easier and quicker, not to mention more sanitary.
Our top picks:
Best Overall Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach
Best Value Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Best In-Tank Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Scrubbing Bubbles Continuous Clean Drop-Ins
Strongest Toilet Cleaner for Stains
Scrubbing Bubbles Power Stain Destroyer
Best Toilet Cleaning Wand
Clorox Disposable Toilet Cleaning System
Best Automatic Toilet Cleaner
Lysol Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Most Innovative Toilet Bowl Cleaner
EC30 Toilet Cleaner
Best Toilet Bowl Cleaner for Calcium Buildup
Powerstone Pumice Stone Toilet Bowl Cleaner With Handle
Best Toilet Cleaning Brush
OXO Good Grips Toilet Brush
Best Scented Toilet Bowl Cleaning Wipes
Clorox Scentiva Disinfecting Wipes
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, we know a lot about bathroom cleaning, including what ingredients dissolve the tough soils and stains most common on bathroom surfaces — like mold and mildew and hard water stains. We test hundreds of cleaning products each year to find the best for cleaning the bathroom. In fact, we recently spent weeks testing 27 different toilet cleaning products to find which ones require minimal effort and yield maximum results.
When we test toilet bowl cleaners, we go right to the source — home and office toilets. We enlist both Lab experts and consumer testers to assess how easy each cleaner is to use, how well it removes fresh and existing stains and how clean it leaves the bowl overall. We also review the ingredients, packaging and more.
For best results overall, consider stocking an assortment that includes a cleaner for stains inside the bowl, like one of our picks below, a sturdy, effective toilet bowl brush and disinfecting wipes for the seat, rim, tank, handle and outer base. Below, you’ll find more details about our toilet bowl cleaner recommendations along with specifics about how we test and what to consider when buying a toilet bowl cleaner.
Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach
Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach
Pros
- Requires minimal scrubbing
- Easy to apply
- Kills 99.9% of germs
Cons
In our tests, toilet grime disappeared within minutes of applying Clorox with Bleach toilet bowl cleaner, which meant very little scrubbing was necessary to tackle tough stains. This cleaner contains bleach, so it whitens, kills 99.9% of germs and deodorizes the toilet, too, when used according to label directions. To sanitize, apply the product, brush the bowl and let the whole thing sit for 5 minutes. To disinfect, let it set a bit longer — approximately 10 minutes.
Because the liquid is light in color, we found it a bit hard to see where the solution was applied and often ended up adding more to make sure the entire toilet bowl was covered. This may lead you to go through the product faster than necessary. Also worth noting: Bleach isn’t effective on rust stains, so if that’s your issue, it’s best to select a cleaner that is formulated to remove rust.
| Type | Gel |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | Yes |
| Kills germs | Yes |
| Cost per oz. | $0.27 |
Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Pros
- Clings to toilet
- Easy to apply
- Kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria
Cons
Unlike our top overall pick, you’ll never have to wonder where you poured the Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner. This budget-friendly gel cleaner clung to the bowl and its dark blue color made it easy to see where it was applied.
On the downside, you’ll need to do a bit of scrubbing, but it with a little bit of elbow grease, the solution removed tough stains and left the toilet bowl sparkling. Plus, it kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria and has an angled neck for easy application under the toilet rim — an area that’s prone to buildup, but easy to miss.
| Type | Gel |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | Yes |
| Cost per oz. | $0.11 |
Scrubbing Bubbles Continuous Clean Drop-Ins
Scrubbing Bubbles Continuous Clean Drop-Ins
Pros
- Cleans the bowl with every flush
- Safe for septic systems
- Helps keep toilet cleaner longer
Cons
- Not a substitute for regular deep cleanings
- Best for regularly flushed toilets
In-tank toilet bowl cleaners work by dissolving in the water in the tank and automatically filling the bowl with cleaner after every flush for continuous freshness and to help keep stains from sticking to the sides of the bowl. We found these tablets were easy to drop in the tank, but it did take a few flushes to start to see them working. While these tablets were not a substitute for regular deeper cleanings in our tests, they will help cut down on the number of cleanings your toilet needs.
Importantly, the manufacturer claims that the toilet water with these drop-in tablets added is not harmful to kids or pets and that the tablets won’t damage plumbing or septic systems, but we recommend exercising caution. Prevent pets from drinking from any toilets where tablets are used and only place tablets in toilets that are flushed regularly so the concentration of cleaner doesn’t build up in the tank and potentially damage the parts.
| Type | In-tank tablet |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | No |
| Cost per oz. | N/A |
Scrubbing Bubbles Power Stain Destroyer
Scrubbing Bubbles Power Stain Destroyer
Pros
- Easy to apply under rim
- Gets rid of limescale and rust
Cons
- May need to apply more than once for stubborn stains
In our tests, the curved neck on the bottle made it a cinch to apply this liquid cleaner under the toilet rim and tackle those hard-to-see stains. And for those who tend to second guess their efforts, you’ll know the Scrubbing Bubbles Power Stain Destroyer is working when it changes from green to blue as it gets rid of limescale and rust.
After letting the cleaner sit for 15 minutes, the marks scrubbed away with ease. Our tests did suggest that stubborn stains may require longer treatment time or re-application. On the bright side, it’s safe to let the product sit overnight if needed, plus the product is especially budget-friendly.
| Type | Liquid |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | Yes |
| Cost per oz. | $0.09 |
Clorox Disposable Toilet Cleaning System
Clorox Disposable Toilet Cleaning System
Pros
- Disposable scrubbing pad
- Preloaded with cleaner
- Easy to use
Cons
- Need to purchase refills
- Each scrubber is single use and goes into the trash
If you don’t like the idea of a used toilet bowl cleaning brush sitting around, then this Clorox Toilet Wand System is for you. It’s an all-in-one toilet brush pre-loaded with cleaner — no extra product required. In our tests, it was easy to dip the scrub pad in the toilet water to activate the solution and start cleaning. After cleaning it was easy to dispose of the scrub pad by simply pressing the button on the handle and releasing it into the trash. We love that it’s a hands-free disposal, but on occasion the cleaning pad stuck to the handle when pushing the button, requiring some extra effort to get it off.
You do pay for the convenience of it all. This toilet bowl cleaner is more expensive than others, plus, you will have to purchase refills. Ultimately, though, this product is cleaner and neater than storing a drippy toilet brush — especially if you have curious kiddos around the house.
| Type | Disposable pad |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | Yes |
| Cost per use | $0.92 |
Lysol Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Lysol Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Pros
- Helps keep toilet clean
- Easy to apply
- Individually wrapped packets are sanitary
Cons
- Won’t remove stubborn stains
- Packaging is somewhat wasteful
This gel cleaner was simple to use and comes in individually wrapped packets to make application and disposal neat and easy. Simply dispense one dose of gel so it clings to the inside surface of the bowl where it dissolves slowly to help clean and freshen with each flush. One application lasts up to two weeks.
Unfortunately, Click Gels can’t replace the need for a good scrubbing in a toilet that’s already badly stained, and it’s more likely to help delay the formation of rings rather than prevent any new stains. They will help reduce the number of cleanings needed and help keep the toilet smelling fresh. Our testers liked the scent, too — the Atlantic Fresh fragrance was pleasant but not overpowering.
| Type | Solid gel |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | No |
| Cost per two-week application | $0.66 |
EC30 Toilet Cleaner
EC30 Toilet Cleaner
Pros
- Neat and easy to use
- Dissolves quickly and completely
- Cuts down on plastic waste
Cons
After testing EC30’s alternative laundry detergent swatches, we had high hopes for the brand’s toilet pouches. Each pouch is filled with toilet cleaner that foams up and dissolves to give the bowl a thorough clean. All you have to do is drop it in, wait for it to foam up and scrub and flush.
The product is pricey and doesn’t disinfect, but it turned out to be an innovative alternative to traditional toilet bowl cleaners. We thought it was better than any other new toilet cleaner tested this year and the convenience can’t be beaten . There are no messy bottles to store, it’s plastic-free and it’s highly effective on tough stains — what more could you want? The manufacturer also claims it’s safe for septic systems.
| Type | Powder |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | No |
| Cost per oz. | N/A |
Powerstone Pumice Stone Toilet Bowl Cleaner With Handle
Powerstone Pumice Stone Toilet Bowl Cleaner With Handle
Pros
- Comes with a storage case
- Effectively tackles tough stains other cleaners can’t
Cons
Though we haven’t formally tested this toilet bowl cleaner, we’ve tested others like it. These kinds of tools work well to remove the really tough hard water and calcium buildup that forms around the water line in the toilet. It also effectively tackles other problem areas in badly stained toilets without scratching the bowl. You will, however, need to stock other cleaning supplies to fully clean, sanitize and disinfect.
It’s easy to use. Just hold the tool by the handle and wet the pumice, then scrub lightly until the buildup is removed. We love that this particular pumice comes with a storage case, keeping a potentially icky surface away from the rest of the other items you regularly reach for.
| Type | Pumice stone |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | No |
| Cost per oz. | N/A |
OXO Good Grips Toilet Brush
OXO Good Grips Toilet Brush
Pros
- Specially designed bristles to clean under rim
- Comes with built-in ventilated drip tray to help brush dry
Cons
- Learning curve to use the rim-cleaning bristles
Not only does this brush leave your toilet sparkling clean, but it also has angled bristles that are specifically designed to clean under the rim, making the job easier. During testing, it took a few tries to get the hang of using the angled bristles correctly, but the bristles on the head were strong enough to scrub away tough build-up.
After cleaning, the brush was easy to put back in the caddy where the built-in drip tray caught the excess water. It also has ventilated slots for quick drying, so you’re not left with a wet, messy caddy or brush.
| Type | Brush |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | No |
| Cost per oz. | N/A |
Clorox Scentiva Disinfecting Wipes
Clorox Scentiva Disinfecting Wipes
Pros
- Kills Covid-19 virus
- Comes in innovative and pleasant scents
- Delays bacteria growth for up to 24 hours
Cons
There’s more to cleaning a toilet than just cleaning inside the bowl and under the rim. The tank, seat, exterior and handle all need attention, too — and sometimes more frequently, like when someone in the family is sick. The easiest, quickest way to accomplish this is with a cleaning and disinfecting wipe. Clorox’s Scentiva Wipes not only sanitize and disinfect hard non-porous surfaces — including killing the Covid-19 virus — but they do so while leaving a fresh, pleasant scent behind.
We like Clorox wipes for their ample size and effective cleaning without leaving heavy, surface-dulling residue behind. They kill viruses in 15 to 30 seconds and bacteria in 4 minutes. They can even help keep bacteria from growing on treated surfaces for up to 24 hours, a real plus for toilet bowl flush handles.
| Type | Wipes |
|---|---|
| Contains bleach | No |
| Kills germs | Yes |
| Cost per use | $0.10 |
How we test toilet bowl cleaners
Carolyn Forte/Good Housekeeping
The best way to test toilet bowl cleaners is to evaluate them on frequently used and naturally soiled toilet bowl surfaces. To do that, we enlist our Lab experts and consumer testers to take the test products home and scrub away. We ask for feedback about how well and how quickly they worked, how easy they were to use and the types of stains they removed. We also want to know where they fell short. And, when necessary, we’ve even been known to test products in our office restrooms. In the Lab, we also review the clarity and completeness of the label directions, the need for any safety warnings based on the ingredients and how easy and neat each product is to use.
What to know when shopping for toilet cleaners
✔️ Type: When it comes to selecting a cleaner for inside the bowl to tackle hard water rings, rust stains and more, the options are endless and there’s no one-size-fits-all product. Thick liquids are formulated to cling to vertical bowl surfaces to coat and dissolve stuck-on stains so they are easier to brush away. While some people may prefer a traditional liquid toilet cleaner and toilet brush, others may like the convenience of a toilet wand with a disposable cleaning head that’s pre-loaded with cleaner. There are also tablets and gels that either go in the toilet tank or attach inside the toilet bowl to help keep your toilet clean in between deep cleanings by automatically dispensing a bit of cleaner with every flush to clean continuously and keep soil from accumulating. Look for cleaners specifically geared toward your toilet problem, for example, rust is best taken care of with a cleaner that’s specifically formulated to remove rust.
✔️ Ingredients: While certain ingredients, like bleach, are great for removing tough stains and disinfecting the toilet, they may not be the right choice for someone who has kids or pets, or does not want to be exposed to a chemical smell. Also, some gels and tablets may be safe for toilet tanks or septic systems while others may not be recommended. Despite any manufacturer claims around safety, concentrated cleaners are best used in toilets that are flushed regularly. Be sure to check the labels to ensure the cleaner fits your lifestyle and needs.
✔️ Longevity: The lifespan of toilet cleaners can vary, especially with tablets and gels. Some tablets and gels can last anywhere from a week to a few months. Make sure to read the label for how long the manufacturer says the product in question lasts so you’ll know how frequently you need to replace them.
The Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners of 2023 – Ultimate Guide
Finding the best toilet bowl cleaner isn’t just about cleanliness, it’s about keeping your home safe and healthy. Beyond sparkling surface and fresh scent, a clean toilet reduces the spread of bacteria and eliminates unpleasant odors.
A clean toilet is more than just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of your home’s hygiene. That’s why we compiled the 12 best toilet bowl cleaners of 2023, so you can make an informed decision and keep your home sparkling.
Why A Good Toilet Bowl Cleaner Matters
Why is having a good toilet bowl cleaner so crucial? It’s simple. The right cleaner will effectively kill bacteria and other microorganisms that accumulate in the toilet bowl. These germs lead to unpleasant odors and, in some cases, cause illness.
A high-quality cleaner tackles stubborn stains and hard water rings that regular cleaning might miss. These stains, caused by mineral deposits in the water, are tough to remove without the proper solution.
Good toilet bowl cleaners make the cleaning process quicker and more efficient . Some products do the hard work for you, allowing you to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your clean, fresh bathroom.
A high-quality toilet bowl cleaner is an invaluable tool in maintaining a clean, sanitary, and welcoming bathroom environment.
How to Shop for Toilet Bowl Cleaners Like a Pro
Buying the perfect toilet bowl cleaner isn’t about grabbing the first one you see on the shelf. It’s a careful process that requires understanding your cleaning needs, the product’s ingredients, and its overall efficacy.
E ffectiveness is key. You need a cleaner that tackles stubborn stains, hard water marks, and germs. Look for products with a proven track record of success. Read reviews or get recommendations if you’re unsure.
Consider the ingredients . Many cleaners use chemicals to cut through grime. But if you have kids, pets, or are environmentally conscious, opt for a natural cleaner. These use plant-based ingredients and are just as effective.
Safety also matters. Some cleaners can cause skin or eye irritation. Always check the label for any potential hazards and remember to use them as directed to avoid any issues.
Think about ease of use . Do you want a cleaner that you can just flush away? Or, would you prefer a scrubbing tool for a more hands-on approach? Or, do you not want to scrub at all? There’s a wide variety to choose from, so pick what works best for you.
Understanding Different Types of Toilet Bowl Cleaners
There are many kinds of toilet bowl cleaners, including gels, foams, tablets, wands, and natural cleaners. Each type comes with unique advantages and uses.
Reviewing the Top Toilet Bowl Cleaners
Let’s dive into some of the best toilet bowl cleaners available today.
Best Overall: Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Lysol Power is a household favorite due to its powerful cleaning abilities. It tackles hard water and lime scale stains, leaving your toilet looking sparkling clean.
Best Automatic Cleaner: Krazy Klean
Krazy Klean wins as the best automatic toilet bowl cleaner. It’s chemical-free and uses hydro-mineral magnets to alter the properties of minerals in water, which prevent stains and rust. Simply drop it in your toilet tank for years of effortless cleanliness. Read more about Krazy Klean’s revolutionary cleaning approach .
Best Natural Cleaner: Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Seventh Generation is a natural cleaner, free from harsh chemicals. It’s an eco-friendly choice that’s safe for your home and the environment.
Best Gel: Scrubbing Bubbles Extra Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Scrubbing Bubbles Gel sticks to the bowl for a thorough clean. It’s great at tackling tough stains.
Best Foaming: Kaboom Scrub Free! Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Kaboom Scrub Free! provides comprehensive coverage of the bowl with its expanding foam. It effectively cleans and deodorizes with every flush.
Best Tablets: Clorox Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner Tablets
Clorox Automatic Tablets are a convenient choice. Just drop one in the tank, and it cleans and freshens with every flush.
Best Wand: Clorox ToiletWand Disposable Toilet Cleaning System
Clorox ToiletWand offers touch-free cleaning with its disposable cleaning heads, ensuring a hygienic cleaning experience.
Best for Stains: ZEP Acidic Toilet Bowl Cleaner
ZEP Acidic is designed to tackle stubborn stains, including hard water and rust, restoring your toilet bowl to its original shine.
Best for Rust: Iron OUT Automatic Bowl Cleaner
Iron OUT is specifically formulated to combat rust and mineral build-up, keeping your toilet bowl stain-free.
Best Flushable Pads: Scrubbing Bubbles Fresh Brush Flushables
Scrubbing Bubbles Fresh Brush Flushables provide easy cleaning. They clean the bowl and then flush away without a trace.
Largest Liquid Cleaner Pack: Lysol Clean and Fresh Toilet Bowl Cleaner
For liquid cleaner fans, Lysol Clean and Fresh offers the best value with its large pack size.
Best Kit: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Toilet Scrubber
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Toilet Scrubber provides a comprehensive cleaning solution, including a specially designed wand and refill pads.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing the right toilet bowl cleaner, you might have a few questions. Here’s answers to some of the most common questions we get.
Is it safe to use chemical cleaners?
While many chemical cleaners are effective, they can be harmful if not used properly. Always follow the instructions and precautions provided by the manufacturer.
Are natural cleaners as effective as chemical ones?
Natural cleaners can be very effective and are often gentler on the environment. However, for stubborn stains and build-up, a more potent cleaner may be necessary.
Can I use any toilet bowl cleaner in my septic system?
Not all cleaners are septic-safe, so it’s important to check the product label. Look for cleaners that are marked as septic-safe.
Final Verdict
When it comes to cleaning your toilet bowl, the best cleaner is one that meets your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a natural option, an automatic cleaner, or a product that tackles rust, there’s something out there for everyone. Remember, a clean toilet bowl not only looks good but also promotes a healthier home.
Looking for more home cleaning tips and tricks? Check out our blog for more insights.
Remember, when it comes to cleanliness, you deserve the best. Choose wisely, and keep it Krazy Klean!