Magic Eraser Stuck In Toilet? The 48 Correct Answer

crawfordmech January 6, 2017

Many children are fascinated by toilets that magically remove whatever is in the bowl. Which often leads to decisions to give rubber duckies a ride or send this pet dinosaur to Neverland. When this happens, you may be faced with a clogged or overflowing toilet that will bring your life to a halt. Before calling a plumber, you can try to get the toy out of the drain yourself.

How to get stuck objects out of your toilet

Remove the water from the toilet bowl. You can scoop out the water with a disposable cup or container. Coffee cans, milk cartons, and empty cans also work well. Leave enough water in the bowl to cover the flask.

When you can see the end of the toy in the drain, grab the end of the toy and pull it out. If you’re lucky, you might be able to remove Dino’s tail or grab part of the object and pull it out of the toilet.

Fish the toy out of the drain. If you can see the toy but can’t get your hands on it, try hanging it with a curved hanger or other hook-shaped object. Pull in a slow, steady motion to get the toy out. It may take several attempts. Likewise, you may be able to remove the toy by tying a slip knot in a string and looping it around a leg or other extension of the toy.

If you can’t see the toy or physically remove it, it’s time to grab the plunger. Multiple pushes of the plunger can loosen the clog and send it down the drain.”

Submerge the toilet. If you can’t see the toy or physically remove it, it’s time to grab the plunger. Multiple pushes of the plunger can loosen the clog and send it down the drain. Avoid using excessive force as this may damage the toilet bowl.

Use a snail or snake. Insert the end of the auger into the toilet and start spinning. This may allow you to salvage the toy, or it may detach and be thrown down the drain. If the snail gets stuck on the surface of the toy, slowly pull it out by removing the snail.

Try a de-clogger. If the toy gets caught in toilet paper or other debris, it can form a clog that blocks the flow of water. Clearing the clog with a declog can cause the toy to slide down the drain and into the sewer. While we do not recommend chemical de-clumpers, we recognize that some customers use them. When choosing a declogger, choose one that’s labeled as natural and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that can pose a hazard to your health, plumbing, and the environment. Notify your plumber if you’ve used any clogged drain before he arrives.

Call a professional

When your efforts are unsuccessful, you need a professional to take care of the problem for you. Contact us today. We offer both standard and emergency plumbing services and can assist you with all your plumbing installation needs.

Melamine Foam AKA: The Magic Eraser

Years ago it was discovered that melamine foam could be used as an effective scouring agent. The open-cell foam is microporous and its polymeric substance is very hard, meaning its internal fibers are very thin, allowing it to function like extremely fine sandpaper. The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser we all know was first introduced by Proctor & Gamble in 2002 and quickly became a popular household cleaning product.

Melamine foam erasers only need water to effectively remove stains, making them convenient to use. By slightly dampening the foam sponge, it can be used to remove crayons, markers and grease from a painted wall, stains from baseboards and floors and scuffs on almost any surface. It is also very useful for getting into small grooves where stains can settle. The Magic Eraser can be used repeatedly, but will slowly wear out with each use. It may leave residue as it reacts with the surface being cleaned, but these are easily removed with water.

Precautions when using melamine foam erasers

Before using melamine foam erasers, obtain a copy of the SDS sheet first and review it for the manufacturer’s recommendations and cautions. Be careful when using them as they can damage surfaces such as some leathers, delicate surfaces, coatings and finishes. Always use with water, don’t press too hard and test the surface on an inconspicuous area first.

Never use melamine foam (magic eraser) to clean skin, animal fur, shiny, brushed, satin or dark painted surfaces, including appliances; and never use on delicate fabrics. It is not suitable for paneling or wood finished surfaces. Remember it is aggressive and abrasive and can ruin the finish on some surfaces such as glossy countertops. Melamine foam is known to leave dull stains on paint, giving a somewhat blotchy appearance to a wall, for example. It should not be used on painted wood surfaces as it can easily mark or remove the wood finish. After using melamine foam, you should wipe the cleaned area with a damp cloth to remove any eraser residue.

The Magic Eraser might seem like the perfect cleaning tool, but there are a few caveats associated with the foam eraser. If the surface to be cleaned is not sufficiently hard, it can be scratched. Overuse can slowly wear down a finish that is cleaned repeatedly as the “fine sandpaper” abrades the finish or paint. Again, it is always recommended to test the item first when using it on delicate surfaces.

According to Mr. Clean, the magic eraser contains no harsh chemicals, although some claim it can cause chemical burns on the skin. This happened to a kid who used it to clean walls and decided to use it on his own skin. The child literally sanded away skin cells and caused “burns.” According to the Mayo Clinic, the Magic Eraser can scratch and chafe skin when rubbed directly against skin, but when used as directed, the melamine should not cause a sting.

Although there are endless ways to clean with melamine foam, here are 101 to get you started. And remember, as with all cleaning products and chemicals, test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it will not damage or remove the color and/or finish of the item or surface being cleaned.

101 uses for the magic eraser

* Use with caution on certain surfaces

1. Boat hulls

2. house connection

3. Gutters

4. Baseboards

5. Bathtubs

6. Shower cubicles

7. Kitchen cabinets *

8. Household appliances *

9. Window

10. Walls *

11. Sink *

12. Remove heavy dirt deposits on plastic car mats

13. Metal chairs

14. Clean window grilles

15. Remove soap residue

16. Remove light lime stains

17. Removing scuffs from white tennis shoes

18. Removing carbon from pan bottoms

19. Remove coffee and tea stains in a mug, carafe or thermos

20. Cleaning the plastic agitator in your washing machine

21. Clean joints

22. Clean the jets on a whirlpool tub

23. Remove dirt from rough spots in the bottom of the tub

24. Shower rails and shelves

25. Soap Dispenser

26. Soap Dishes

27. Showerheads

28. Shower curtain rods

29. Towel bars

30. Linoleum floors

31. Crickets

32. Floors without wax

33. Boat seats

34. Vinyl convertible tops

35. Dishwasher (rinse with water after cleaning)

36. Remove permanent marker

37. Vehicle Rims (White Walls)

38. Bicycles

39. Animal cages

40. Metal Boxes

41. Plastic carrier (container)

42. Leather shoes *

43. Leather Purses*

44. Leather Luggage *

45. Remove scratches on the floor

46. ​​Remove pen marks

47. Remove dirt deposits

48. Plastic trash can

49. Stains on desk and tables

50. Dry erase boards

51. Ceramic tile

52. Pet Meals

53. Remove dried food

54. Scourers in the sink

55. Remove coffee stains

56. Microwave (rinse with water after cleaning)

57. Sink Faucets

58. Cabinet handles

59. Burnt-in dirt on stovetop

60. Granite countertop

61. Finished stone surfaces

62. Vinyl chairs

63. Vinyl shutters

64. Vinyl trim

65. Remove rust stains

66. Mirror

67. Plastic storage containers

68. Plastic drawer organizer

69. Trash can

70. Door panel

71. Chalk marks on the wall*

72. Interior decoration

73. Doors

74. Plastic Balls

75. Dolls

76. Figures

77. Play sets

78. Booster Seats

79. Plastic toys (rinse with water after cleaning)

80. Hot tubs

81. Swimming pools

82. Sports equipment

83. Sports shoes

84. Vehicle interior

85. Garden furniture

86. Vinyl fences

87. Telephones

88. Ladders (metal and fiberglass)

89. Step stool

90. Cleaning devices

91. Pet carriers

92. Shower drains

93. Floor wiper sink

94. Utility sinks

95. Canoes

96. Decks (no maintenance)

97. Plastic chairs

98. Metal Signs

99. Light diffusers

100. Exercise Equipment

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Jean Hanson helps commercial cleaning business owners build a more profitable and successful cleaning business through her online community at TheJanitorialStore.com. Jean is also the host of the popular web TV show CleaningBiz.tv and the author of the Trash Talk newsletter – sign up today!

As reprinted on Snopes, Procter & Gamble officially addressed the rumor, stating, “Formaldehyde is not and never was a component of Magic Eraser. Melamine foam sponge contains something called formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymer, but that’s not the same as formaldehyde and “poses no health or safety risks.” As we learned in high school chemistry, when you mix different chemicals, the resulting compound is more than just a sum of their parts; The new chemical has different properties than its components. The company went on to say that it is “possible that formaldehyde may be present in minute trace amounts due to the manufacturing process. Even then, the amount present is significantly lower than the standards set by government agencies and trade associations, and is actually lower than what is found in indoor air.”

Disclosure: We may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

A family is only as clean as its bathroom, which is why a spotless tub is so important. But with so many products out there, it can be overwhelming to know what to use and what to stay away from. If you’re hesitant to use your Magic Eraser sponge on your dirty acrylic tub, you’re not alone. Thankfully, we’ve done all the research for the right cleaning products, so you don’t have to worry about your hard work going down the drain.

Here’s what you need to consider when choosing a cleaning product:

What material your tub is made of What are the best cleaning products for your tub What products might damage your tub

If you have an acrylic tub, it’s generally best to use non-abrasive cleaners like dish soap, Clorox wipes, or a vinegar and water mixture. Do not try bleach or abrasives such as steel wool on the tub. However, Mr. Clean®’s Magic Eraser is a safe option as long as you’re gentle with your scrubbing.

That was a pretty short summary, so it’s understandable if you need a little more information. For that reason, this guide will break it down further for more in-depth answers to your questions.

How do you tell if a bathtub is fiberglass or acrylic?

Before you start browsing your cleaning products, you should first determine what type of tub you own. Some flexibility you notice when you press the side of your tub, or visible scratches and cracks in the finish indicate fiberglass or acrylic materials. A heavy and sturdy or battered tub is likely to be made of porcelain or enamel. For more information on cleaning these types of tubs, see the “How do you clean tubs made from other materials?” section here.

Narrowing it down further, fiberglass tubs generally have faded bottoms compared to their sides, while acrylic tubs tend to be heavier and more durable. If you are still not sure, you can always call the manufacturer or visit their website to check.

Which cleaners can be used for acrylic tubs?

Now that you know your tub is acrylic, you can consider what products are safe to use to clean it. Being plastic based, acrylic is quite resistant to damage compared to its porcelain or enamel counterparts. Still, gentle is the way to go when it comes to cleaning supplies.

Delta, a company that makes kitchen and bathroom appliances, recommends that customers use products like dish soap and Formula 409® to keep their acrylic shower or tub clean. In addition, most natural cleaning products can also be used without hesitation on acrylic tubs.

When in doubt, check the product label for warnings against use on acrylic or plastic surfaces. Stay away from stronger detergents like bleach or Lysol which can be harmful over time.

Does vinegar damage an acrylic tub?

Vinegar won’t damage an acrylic tub, but it can leave an odor and require a lot of manual work.

To be on the safe side, luxury bath company Badeloft® recommends diluting vinegar with warm water before cleaning your tub. Using a washcloth or a magic bathroom eraser, gently scrub any dirty areas with the vinegar solution. If you’re still having trouble removing stains, you can add baking soda to the mixture for a more effective acidic cleaner. For a stuck rust stain, try “2 foolproof ways to remove rust stains from an acrylic tub or shower.”

Click here for Magic Eraser on Amazon.

A lot of scrubbing is required for the vinegar mixture to work. Acrylic is easily scratched, so this method is not our first choice. However, since the accessories are cheap and easy to obtain, they can be a good option for a quick wash. Just be sure to stay gentle and stay away from abrasive scrubbing tools like steel wool.

Can you use Clorox wipes on acrylic?

Yes! Clorox® Wipes are a bleach-free cleaning product that is perfectly safe to use on an acrylic tub. According to their website, the wipes can be used on a variety of surfaces, including “bathroom [and] household surfaces.” Because the wipes can irritate the skin, Clorox recommends rinsing the surface after cleaning to remove any residue.

Click here for Clorox wipes on Amazon.

For even more great acrylic cleaning products, check out 10 Best Acrylic Tub Cleaners.

How do you clean other types of tubs?

If you started reading this guide only to find out your tub isn’t acrylic, don’t worry, we’ve still got your back.

How do you know if your bathtub is porcelain or enamel?

Just like the plastic tubs made from acrylic and fiberglass, it can be difficult to tell a porcelain tub from an enamel tub. This is important, however, as real porcelain bathtubs can handle harsher detergents than enameled metal tubs.

Unlike the plastic tubs, there is a daring way to tell these two types apart. Just hold a magnet to the side of your bathtub. The magnet will be attracted to an enameled tub because there is either steel or cast iron underneath, but it will fall off a solid porcelain tub instantly.

What cleaning products can you use for a porcelain tub?

Many of the same cleaners that are safe to use on acrylic tubs are also safe to use on porcelain tubs. Dish soap and natural cleaning products like the vinegar and water solution are great options, as are homemade baking soda and vinegar paste.

In addition, real porcelain can handle harsher cleaning products. As long as your bathroom is white and not stained or vintage china, you can occasionally bleach wash it. However, do not do this regularly as the bleach can damage the finish.

What cleaning products can you use for an enameled tub?

Enamel bathtubs require much gentler treatment than real porcelain bathtubs. Dish soap is recommended by both Home Depot and the Nation Association of Realtors as a safe product for your enamel tub. Simply add soap to a warm water bath and rub with a cloth or Magic Eraser.

Another option for more stubborn stains is to soak the stained area in hydrogen peroxide for five minutes before rinsing with the soap and water mixture.

As previously mentioned, enamel tubs aren’t as sturdy as their porcelain counterparts. Do not use bleach or vinegar on the enamel as it can cause deterioration.

Have fun cleaning!

Now that you have all the information, it’s time to dig under the sink for your Magic Eraser and Clorox wipes and get to work! Don’t forget to reward yourself with a nice, long soak in your sparkling tub afterwards. Maybe just light a candle so you don’t smell like vinegar.

As the name suggests, magic erasers are truly incredible for cleaning. You can scrub off that stubborn ring that has been on your bathtub for ages, make plastic patio furniture look new again, or remove scuffs from your favorite pair of sneakers. But there are times when your magic eraser works a little too well and your favorite scrubber might end up ruining the item you were trying to clean.

While magic erasers look a bit like ordinary sponges, they are definitely not sponges. They are a deceptively abrasive and effective cleaning agent. To ensure you don’t fall victim to Magic Eraser Regret, you need to know when you can use Magic Eraser to clean – and when you can’t.

How does Magic Eraser work?

Now that we know a Magic Eraser isn’t a sponge, what is it? It’s actually blocks of melamine foam, made up of microscopic air bubbles encased in strands of hardened melamine resin – and it’s as tough as it sounds. These hardened melamine resin threads are sharp when they break – similar to broken glass.

When you rub Magic Eraser across a surface, the mixture of melamine resin and these microscopic air bubbles work together to clean it unlike any other product. The resin is the scraper, the air bubbles are the absorber, and if anything survives that powerful one/two punch, a little more pressure will break the melamine down into even tinier abrasive particles. It’s like a hand grinder with a built-in vacuum function.

When not to use Magic Eraser

Can you use Magic Eraser on any surface? Definitely not. There are some surfaces that this cleaning product is too aggressive for.

If you’re at all unsure about using Magic Eraser on a particular surface, do a quick “patch” test before you tackle the cleaning project. Overall, it’s fabulous for getting rid of so many different types of clutter in your home, especially in your kitchen and bathroom. Try not to use it on high gloss surfaces as the abrasiveness could dull the luster of the surface permanently. While there are many uses for Magic Eraser, there are times when you should find another cleaning method.

Magic erasers don’t magically erase everything – here’s where you shouldn’t use them:

Glossy lacquered, enamelled, sealed or varnished surfaces. Magic Eraser can remove the finish.

Magic Eraser can remove the finish. Wood. Magic erasers can scratch and strip the finish.

Magic erasers can scratch and strip the finish. Your car. You can damage the paintwork.

You can damage the paintwork. Natural stone surfaces, including granite and marble. They can damage the seal and leave your countertop looking lifeless and dull.

They can damage the seal and leave your countertop looking lifeless and dull. Non-stick coated pots and pans. Magic Eraser can scratch the surface and then this coating can get into your food.

Magic Eraser can scratch the surface and then this coating can get into your food. Stainless steel. Like natural stone, Magic Eraser can make stainless steel appear dull.

Like natural stone, Magic Eraser can make stainless steel appear dull. Unique collectibles. If you have something that has sentimental value, don’t test Magic Eraser on it. It’s not worth the risk.

If you have something that has sentimental value, don’t test Magic Eraser on it. It’s not worth the risk. screens. The Magic Eraser would quickly scratch and ruin the screen.

What are Magic Erasers safe to use for?

Ordinary dirt, grime and sticky messes are no match for the Magic Eraser. With a simple wipe across the surface, most stains are history. For more stubborn stains, a little extra elbow grease should do the trick. However, be sure to put on gloves when using a Magic Eraser. The surface of the Magic Eraser is abrasive and potentially harmful to skin. And never use a Magic Eraser without first doing a spot test.

How to use Magic Eraser.

Our dirty dozen list of common cleaning jobs Magic Eraser will master:

Remove scuff marks, crayon, pen and marker stains from walls and baseboards. Clean baked-on grease and food splatter from oven doors. Whiten gray joints and bring back the shine of your tiles. Remove layers of soap scum from shower doors. Make a greasy stovetop shine again. Removes sticky label residue from wine bottles and glasses. Remove burnt-in dirt from glass bakeware. Get rid of years of build-up from curling irons and straighteners. Remove rust rings in your bathtub or sink. Wipe away stuck splatters in your microwave. Make bathroom fixtures and handles sparkle like new. Remove wine or juice stains from Formica counters.

While there’s no magical way to avoid having to clean your home, Magic Eraser is the next best thing. In an unassuming spongy disguise, this perfect blend of ultra-strong abrasives gets things incredibly clean faster, better and easier than you ever thought possible.

Editor’s Recommendations

Cast iron is traditionally coated with a porcelain enamel that is fused to the cast iron in a furnace. Although porcelain is a very durable surface, it is prone to chipping, cracking and surface dulling. If you use the wrong products, you’ll accelerate surface deterioration, so let’s start by talking about what not to use. Abrasive cleaning products such as scouring powder, white vinegar (or other high acid cleaning products) and steel wool should all be avoided as they can damage the finish. For best results, always start with the gentlest cleanser and work your way up to heavier uses. Remember that proper care simplifies ongoing maintenance.

Each editorial product is independently selected, although we may receive compensation or receive an affiliate commission if you purchase something through our links. Ratings and prices are correct and items are in stock at the time of publication.

Find out what’s behind the magic of Magic Erasers.

via amazon.com

All about magic erasers

Originally launched in 2003, Mr. Clean’s Magic Eraser has become a popular option for removing a variety of messes with just a sponge and some water. It has also spawned many fakes.

But do you actually know what those beloved white rectangles are made of? Or what shouldn’t you use it for? We are here to initiate you.

What are magic erasers made of?

Magic erasers are made from melamine foam using a compound called formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymer. In addition to being an excellent stain removal option for otherwise “uncleanable fabrics”, melamine foam has a variety of other uses including:

Soundproofing (improving acoustics and reducing external noise)

Temperature insulation (protection against hot or cold temperatures)

Melamine foam consists of a mixture of hard and soft structures, hydrogen, carbon and nitrogen, which work together to fight stains without damaging the underlying surface. Melamine foam has been manufactured since the late 20th century and was discovered as an effective cleaning tool in the early 21st century.

Plus, these are the top rated cleaning products on Amazon.

How do magic erasers work?

Magic Erasers only require water to effectively remove most stains – no chemicals or soaps required. Outwardly, they look, act, and feel like most other sponges, but that’s where the similarities end.

Melamine foam is a porous material that acts like very fine sandpaper to gently remove stains. Although soft to the touch on the outside, each eraser is actually uniquely abrasive, using small pockets of air in the material to remove stains when wet.

One downside, however, is that Magic Eraser sponges wear out quickly because they are so porous. So if you have a lot of projects to tackle, you might want to buy a few boxes. That’s because the delicate spongy cell structure loosens the dirt while simultaneously absorbing the dirt and dissolving the material.

Are magic erasers safe?

In short, yes. While the compound ingredient mentioned above contains the word formaldehyde, it is part of a chemical name. Formaldehyde itself is not actually an ingredient in the sponges. Magic sponges are non-toxic and safe for home use. They’re abrasive, though, so you don’t want to rub them against your skin or let your kids get their hands on them.

As for the actual material and its impact on the environment, some studies have identified the particles washed down the drain as a potential additive to the scourge of microplastics in waterways, but this remains largely unclear. Magic erasers aren’t biodegradable, but they’re a safer alternative to potentially toxic cleaning supplies.

How to use magic erasers

Obviously, Magic Erasers are most commonly used on surfaces like countertops, floors, and fixtures. Simply wet your eraser and squeeze out the excess water before gently rubbing the sponge over the dirty surface.

If you’re focusing on specific areas of the home, try the bathroom- and kitchen-specific varieties that best suit your cleaning tasks. They also now make towel-like Magic Eraser sheets.

Areas to avoid

Avoid using a Magic Eraser on polished, delicate, or easily scratched surfaces as this may result in the outer finish being removed or the outer finish may be damaged. Try a test patch on a less conspicuous spot before heading into town on a larger spot.

While versatile, some of the things you should avoid when using your Magic Eraser include your car, stainless steel, shiny walls, and wood.

Next, these are the 15 best cleaning products for allergy sufferers.

Remember – it’s important to keep your brush and sponges clean too so you don’t spread more bacteria.

A rim block is not essential, but will help eliminate some odors and stains.

Make sure you have a dry cloth handy!

We recommend using a pair of rubber gloves exclusively for toilet cleaning to avoid cross-contamination.

It is best to use a brush with plastic bristles to clean the toilet – wire brushes can damage the enamel surface of your toilet.

Before we go through how to clean a dirty toilet and make it sparkle instead, first make sure you know what you’ll need to get the job done:

We’ve got everything you need to know to clean a toilet and get that china really clean and shiny.

Cleaning the toilet may be one of the least appealing chores in the household, but one thing is for sure: keep putting it off and what is supposed to be an easy task only gets harder.

Want to know how to clean toilet bowls without scrubbing? Let your detergent sit while you clean other areas of the bathroom – perfect if you want to know how to clean a heavily soiled toilet bowl and remove stubborn stains.

Pass the brush over the bowl again and flush the toilet to flush away the cleaner. Be sure to keep scrubbing while the water drains.

Continue using the brush to scrub around and around the toilet bowl.

Start scrubbing the toilet brush under the rim to remove surface stains and distribute the cleaner.

Put on your gloves and apply your choice of bleach or cleaning liquid around the edge and let it run down the sides.

If you want to know how to clean a toilet, the best place to start is by cleaning the toilet bowl. To do this, you need to clean as much of the surface as possible, so start by draining as much water as possible from the bowl. You can do this by siphoning with a plunger or by shutting off the water valve and flushing your toilet.

To clean your toilet seat quickly, it’s useful to have antibacterial dishcloths on hand.

Wipe off dirt with a paper towel and dry off the cleaning solution.

Use an old toothbrush to scrub hard-to-reach areas like the hinges and loosen dirt.

Spray some bathroom cleaner around the seat and lid, focusing especially on bolts and screws and on the back near the pipe or cistern.

Your toilet seat can harbor harmful bacteria, so it’s really important to clean it regularly and thoroughly.

When the cloth is half-soaked, use a clean, dry one to continue.

Starting from the top, wipe the entire surface with some kitchen roll or a cloth and remove all of the cleaning solution.

Spray your bathroom cleaner on the tank, lid, base, sides and handle. For convenience, you can also use flushable antibacterial wipes.

Cleaning the outside of your toilet is just as important as cleaning your toilet bowl as it can get just as dirty.

This step isn’t strictly necessary, but we think it’s definitely a plus to end up with a pleasantly scented toilet; Hook the desired toilet block over the rim of your toilet to prevent dirt and limescale build-up and to keep odors out of your toilet bowl.

Wipe away any dirt with paper towels or a cloth and dry thoroughly.

Using an old toothbrush, scrub the area thoroughly to remove dirt or odors.

Spray the toilet floor all over with the bathroom cleaner.

Stains and bacteria can accumulate at the bottom of the toilet, where it meets the floor, as well as behind it, leading to bad odors.

Dispose of the used wipes or flush down the toilet and mission accomplished.

Wipe down the outside of the toilet, starting at the top and ending at the bottom.

Using antibacterial wipes (if available), wipe both sides of the seat and lid.

Next, scrub the toilet with the toilet brush, making sure the cleaning solution reaches every corner of the toilet, including the U-bend. If you have time, leave the toilet cleaner on for about 30 minutes. If not, continue to the next step!

Put on your rubber gloves, lift the toilet seat and squirt your toilet cleaner around the rim and sides.

Sometimes the luxury of time isn’t on our side, but the loo needs cleaning, and fast! How to quickly clean a dirty toilet.

What brand of dishwashing tablets do you usually buy?

How to disinfect toilet bowls and toilets for a deep clean

A neglected toilet needs a little more maintenance than a regular cleaning. How to clean a stained toilet and make it look like new again.

Wash the outside of your toilet with a sponge and hot water to remove dirt, wipe and dry with a cloth or kitchen roll. Spray some toilet cleaner all over the toilet: lid, seat, outside and bottom. Make it work. Using a liquid toilet cleaner and pouring it under the rim of the bowl and letting it sit for at least twenty minutes, or overnight if safe to do so is the best way to thoroughly clean a toilet bowl. Thoroughly scrub the bowl with the toilet brush to remove any stains. Rinse and rinse the brush. If stains remain, repeat this step again. Using a cloth or kitchen roll, wipe the disinfectant spray around the seat, floor, lid and back of the toilet until the entire toilet is sparkling clean and dry.

How to get rid of toilet stains

So now you know how to clean a toilet, but do you also know how to remove toilet stains? Read on for our top stain removal tips that tackle the most common toilet stains.

How to clean toilet stains: Hard water

Pour a cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl, swish the solution around with the toilet brush and leave for a minute. Add a cup of baking soda and another one of vinegar. Let the solution bubble for about five minutes, then scrub the toilet so the solution reaches any stains. Finally, flush the toilet and you’re done!

How to remove toilet stains: Yellow stains

Yellow toilet stains are the most common stain – caused by the accumulation of pigment in urine residue – but the most difficult to remove. Luckily, the powerful cleaning power of bleach can remove those nasty yellow stains.

Pour bleach around the toilet bowl and let it sit for a few hours. Once you see the stains gone, rinse away the bleach. Leave the bleach on overnight if the discoloration is particularly severe.

How to clean toilet stains: Limescale

These mineral deposits form stubborn stains that are difficult to remove and often require a special product. If you don’t have one, you can use vinegar just as effectively. Read our top tips to learn more about removing scale from your toilet. How to clean a heavily soiled toilet bowl: Remove brown toilet stains

Those unsightly brown stains in your toilet bowl are caused by mineral compounds in hard water, specifically iron oxide or rust. Since acidic cleaners dissolve rust, vinegar is a really good and natural cleaner.

To treat stains on the bottom of the bowl, pour two liters of vinegar and leave for a few hours before rinsing. If the stains are near the edges, mix some vinegar and borax (or salt if you don’t have one) into a paste and apply it to the stains with an old toothbrush. Leave it on for at least a few hours, or overnight if possible, before rinsing it off.

Use a water-soaked pumice stone to gently remove stubborn stains in your toilet bowl.

Answers to your most important questions about toilet cleaning

How to clean a dirty toilet brush

The best way to clean toilet brushes and other tools you may have used is to rinse them and any holders in hot water and a bleach solution for an hour. This should be done at least once a week to avoid bacterial build-up and before scrubbing the bowl with the brush. Check out our handy guide to cleaning a toilet brush and toilet brush holder for more information.

How to keep the toilet bowl clean

As with most household chores, cleaning the toilet is easiest when you tend to it as part of a routine. Deep cleaning can be done every two weeks and regular cleaning weekly.

Make sure you have clean utensils (toilet brush and wipes) and regularly give the bowl a quick scrub or wipe down the seat with antibacterial wipes every few days. Using a toilet block helps keep your toilet clean, fresh, and sanitary between more thorough cleanings.

How to clean a toilet with natural ingredients

If you prefer to limit the number of chemicals you use in your home, there are several natural alternatives available.

Baking soda and vinegar are great natural cleaning agents that are perfect for removing stubborn stains from the toilet bowl. Mix them into a paste and apply to all stains with a toothbrush or pour a cup at a time into the toilet bowl and leave on for five minutes.

Alternatively, mix a cup of white vinegar with half a teaspoon of tea tree essential oil and use as a cleansing spray.

For more tips on naturally disinfecting a toilet, see our article on eco-friendly bathroom cleaning ideas.

To tackle the inside of your toilet, use your Mr. Clean Antibacterial Cleaner with Summer Citrus and a handy toilet brush. Pour some of the legendary cleaner into the toilet bowl and then use the toilet brush to scrub away the mess. When you’re done cleaning, flush the toilet to remove the dirty mess and reveal a bright, shiny toilet! Do this regularly to keep your toilet fresh and clean.

Need a little extra elbow grease in the bathroom? Try Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath with Gain Original Scent for more demanding jobs like cleaning shower doors, tiles and water stains. Thanks to the power of Mr. Clean you will have a clean toilet and a shorter to-do list.

Details of instructions for use and safety information can be found on the packaging. Causes eye irritation. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep out of reach of children.

Flo plunger not working? 5 ways to dislodge waste from pipe walls Posted on 10/16/2020 by Gabriel Halimi

There are few moments in life as devastating as realizing you’ve clogged your toilet. Not only is it an inconvenience, it can also get downright messy. Getting up close with your toilet is probably the last thing you want to do.

Hopefully a few turns with the piston is all it takes to set things right again. But sometimes the piston just isn’t enough. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up a few alternatives to try in addition to using your plunger to clear those stubborn clogs.

Bring a pair of gloves for each of these methods. Unclogging toilets is a messy business.

before you start

If you don’t want your bathroom to turn into a dangerous lake of sewage, the first step to repairing your clogged toilet is to stop the flow of water. There is a water inlet valve behind the toilet tank. turn it off Alternatively, you can always reach into the toilet tank and make sure the flapper valve is securely closed. Whichever option you choose, make sure this is the first step you take.

1. Try the plunger first

We’ll cover a few non-piston options, but the piston should always be the first thing you try. Of course, plungers are great for unclogging toilets as they create a vacuum that will loosen anything stuck in the drain pipe. So “dip” the plunger into the toilet and make a good seal over the pipe. Give him some good jabs and pulls. If it doesn’t work, that’s okay. We have many other options to try.

2. If you don’t have a plunger, make one

It’s not every day that you find yourself making your own flask, so consider yourself one of the brave few if you take the step. Remember that flasks work by creating a vacuum, and there are ways to recreate this function using two simple items you probably have around your house: a large water bottle and a pair of scissors.

Take a large (1 liter) water bottle and empty its contents. Drink it, water some plants, just don’t waste it. When you’re done, screw the cap back on the bottle. Then grab your favorite pair of scissors and cut off the bottom of the water bottle. Put on your gloves and dip the bottom of the water bottle into the toilet pipe. Firmly push and pull the temporary plunger as many times as needed. Finally, it should unclog the toilet.

3. Hot water and dish soap

When the plunger method fails, it’s time to try some chemical methods that won’t damage your plumbing. We start with hot water and dish soap. With this method (and the next), you want to make sure you don’t already have a ton of water in the toilet bowl. This means you may have to remove some water manually.

Put a few liters of water in a saucepan and throw it on the stove. You want hot water – not quite boiling, but hot enough to say, brew yourself some tea. While the water is heating, squirt some dish soap into the toilet bowl. When the water is ready, pour it into the bowl. The power of the hot water combined with the dish soap should loosen any buildup in your pipes.

4. Vinegar and Baking Soda

This method is similar to the previous method, except you use vinegar and baking soda to start a chemical reaction to hopefully loosen some of that residue. Remember those volcanoes you used to do in 4th grade science class?

You will need a pot of hot water, a cup of baking soda, and a cup of vinegar. Pour the baking soda into your toilet bowl. Then add the vinegar little by little to avoid overflowing. The mixture should immediately start bubbling and bubbling. Leave the baking soda and vinegar combination on for twenty minutes. You should notice the water level in the toilet bowl getting lower and lower. Finally, fill the pot with hot water.

5. Use a drain snake (or make your own)

Sometimes the only way to get rid of a stubborn clog is to use a solid object to unclog the clog. If you have a drain snake at home, use it. If you don’t have one and don’t want to bother getting one, you can whip up a DIY drain snake using an unraveled wire hanger.

Insert the snake or hanger into the pipe as far as it will go, moving it from side to side. It should easily clear the obstacle. Note that an actual drain snake is more effective when the clog is deep in the pipe, since the pipe has a P-bend that a wire hanger may not be able to pass.

“My toilet is constantly clogged!”

Every toilet will get clogged from time to time, but what if your toilet is constantly clogged? If you live in an older home, your old pipes may be covered with years of buildup. Whether it’s from hard water, mineral deposits, or coarse pipe material that things stick to, the volume of your pipes will shrink over time.

What does that mean? This means your toilet is a kind of barometer of the overall health of your plumbing network. If you get an unusually high number of clogs, your pipes could be at risk of even more serious problems like leaks and bursting. Some leaks can go undetected for weeks or even months, damaging your home over time.

If you have an aging pipe network, there is a way to keep an eye on the condition of your plumbing. With the Flo by Moen device you get constant monitoring of the pressure, flow and temperature of your home water system. And you’ll be alerted instantly when a leak occurs, from large bursts to tiny drips.

Grease spatters in the kitchen, streaks of colored pencils on the freshly painted wall, greasy rings in the bathtub – these dirt are powerless against the cleaning power of Mr. Clean Magic Erasers. Since they hit the market more than a decade ago, the erasers have rounded up a consumer base that swears by the magic. But the secret behind the material the scrubbers are made of, melamine foam — the same material often used in recording studios as an acoustic insulator — is less magic and more simple chemistry.

melamine

Melamine itself is just an organic base in the form of white crystals. But when combined with other compounds, it can turn into a plush foam – the Magic Eraser – with a sandpaper-like microscopic texture. You can use it to remove sticky dirt and scum from all types of surfaces; Just avoid using it on delicate or shiny exterior surfaces. Melamine’s high nitrogen content also makes it a useful flame retardant and fertilizer. In 2008, Chinese scammers used melamine to make milk and formula appear higher in protein, killing six babies and sickening nearly 300,000 others. Two of the perpetrators were executed.

formaldehyde

This stuff is best known as the smelly liquid used to preserve dead animals for decades and possibly forever. Formaldehyde itself can be dangerous and sometimes deadly — it can irritate skin, attack internal tissues, and even cause cancer. But when you mix it with melamine, the result is a tough resin in which these toxic effects are neutralized. The high tensile strength makes the resin a suitable material for tableware and countertops. During the manufacturing process, force the formation of gas bubbles in the resin and you will have Mr. Clean’s melamine foam.

sodium bisulfite

This stuff alone has antimicrobial properties; It is excellent as a preservative in winemaking. This is where it can help boost resin production, but it’s best used sparingly – sulfite-modified foams are less stable and can give off formaldehyde under certain conditions.

water

According to Procter & Gamble, the key to the Magic Eraser’s stain-fighting properties lies in its “water-activated micro-scrubbers.” But nothing is water-activated – the eraser can be used dry or wet with little difference in results. However, water probably makes it easier for dirt to stick to the eraser—just like you might dampen a paper towel before wiping down a wall or table.

Before retiring to the couch, rinse out your Magic Eraser and wipe down your freshly refreshed surfaces with water as well. If what you’ve cleaned comes into contact with food, you’ll need to wipe it down with a damp rag or paper towel so it’s ready for the next time you see each other. Now the kitchen is practically spotless and you are ready for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. We’ll meet again tomorrow night… after dinner!

Test a small area with light pressure before use. Not recommended for the following surfaces: high gloss, polished, dark, brushed, satin, faux leather, bare/polished wood, copper, stainless steel appliances, non-stick coating or vehicle body. Rinsing required for surfaces in direct contact with food. Do not use with chlorine bleach or other household cleaners. Do not use on skin or other body parts. Application to the skin is likely to cause abrasions. Avoid contact with eyes. May cause eye irritation. Keep out of the reach of small children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.

If you’re curious about how natural cleaning products work or why baking soda is such a powerful ingredient, you’ve come to the right place. We explain the science behind some of the most popular cleaning methods and tools so you can clean smarter – not harder. Follow Clean Science to see which technique we break down next.

Magic Erasers ($13.99 for eight, amazon.com), the ubiquitous white sponges made by Procter & Gamble for nearly two decades, seem capable of handling any cleaning task. The tool is often recommended for everything from removing stains on walls to removing stuck soap scum. To find out why, we spoke to Morgan Brashear, Mr. Clean’s lead scientist. First the secret behind the scrubbing power of these sponges and whether or not this magical tool can really do everything.

Mr Clean Original Magic Eraser Credit: Courtesy of Mr Clean

Manual cleaning

These cleaning clips are “magic” because they can do as much as they do and how they do it, says Brashear. “Most people know they’re great for marking walls, but they can handle even the toughest kitchen and bathroom jobs with just water and a little scrubbing,” she says. “They’re perfect for stovetop splashes and effortlessly remove soap scum from tubs and shower screens.” What makes them so popular, she continues, is that they offer a mechanical cleaning — not a chemical-based one — that they’re safe on a wide range of surfaces and is ideal for those who want to avoid harsh cleaning solutions.

Negative pressure

Because Magic Erasers provide an abrasive clean, Brashear recommends starting with light pressure with each use. “We don’t recommend using Magic Erasers on high-gloss surfaces, stainless steel appliances, non-stick coatings, or on the body of a vehicle,” she says, adding that they shouldn’t be combined with chemicals either.

sponge, plus

Magic erasers are made from a melamine foam that’s been heat-compressed to increase its durability, explains Brashear, who says that’s the extent of their manipulation. “What many people may not be aware of is that the Magic Eraser Original ($13.99 for eight, amazon.com), the Magic Eraser Extra Durable ($12.48 for 10, amazon.com), or the Magic Eraser Sheets ($14.82 for a three-pack, amazon.com),” she says. Additionally, the product feels in the palm of your hand just like a traditional sponge—only better. “To take it a step further, the grooves on the Sides are specially designed to match your finger position, making the eraser more ergonomic to hold and easier to use,” adds Brashear.

method behind the magic