Why This Method Works So Well: Surfactants
Laundry detergent contains surfactants, which are cleaning agents that break apart dirt, grease and grime. These surfactants spread through the water and attach to residue inside the toilet, loosening it so it can be wiped away with minimal brushing.
Limescale and Urine Scale
The water softeners found in detergent are specifically designed to dissolve mineral deposits. Inside a toilet, this means they tackle the limescale and urine scale that cause discoloration, rough patches and unpleasant odors. As the detergent soaks, these deposits begin to soften and detach from the surface.
Antibacterial Effect
Many washing powders also contain mild bleaching agents that help disinfect surfaces. While not as harsh as typical toilet bleach, they still reduce bacteria and leave the bowl fresher and cleaner than many standard products.
How It Works
Using laundry detergent as a toilet cleaner is simple. Start by flushing once to moisten the bowl. Then sprinkle half a cup of detergent around the inside and allow it to sit for fifteen to twenty minutes. During this time, the detergent’s active ingredients loosen the dirt, dissolve buildup and freshen the surface without any scrubbing. After the detergent has soaked long enough, take your toilet brush and scrub around the bowl, including the curves and the underside of the rim. You’ll quickly notice how easily the grime lifts off. A final flush reveals a clean, bright and deodorized toilet without the chemical fumes or strong odors of conventional cleaners. This method is perfect as a replacement for toilet cleaner, when you’ve run out of regular products or simply when you want a cheaper, more effective alternative. Many people who try it once choose to clean their toilet this way from then on.