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How to Clean a Toilet Tank: The Correct Approach

How to Clean a Toilet Tank: The Correct Approach

Person holding a toilet valve in front of a toilet.

The toilet tank might be out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Over time, hidden dirt, mineral buildup, and even germs can accumulate beneath the lid—causing unpleasant odours and reducing flushing efficiency.

To keep your toilet performing at its best, it’s important to do more than just clean—you need to disinfect. Lysol® bathroom cleaners not only tackle stubborn stains but also kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria*, helping you maintain a clean and hygienic bathroom. 

  • In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean and disinfect your toilet tank effectively, so it stays clean and odour-free.

Best way to clean a toilet tank

For best results: Start with a clean toilet, including under the rim. Do not touch the puck directly. This product is designed for toilets that are flushed regularly.

Step 1: Remove tank lid. 

Remove the tank lid and carefully cut open the package.

Step 2: Place the puck. 

After flushing (when the water level is low), drop the Lysol® In-Tank Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Continuous Action Puck into the tank, near the side wall or back corner, away from the water inlet.

Step 3: Put the tank lid back on. 

The puck will slowly dissolve with each flush, helping keep your toilet water clean and fresh automatically.

Step 4: Replace when dissolved.

 When the puck has fully dissolved, simply add a new one to keep up regular cleaning and deodorizing. This puck works quietly behind the scenes, killing 99.9% of germs*, and kills odour-causing bacteria to help keep your toilet bowl water free of odour. 


*When used as directed.

FAQs

How often should you clean the toilet tank?

You should clean the toilet tank at least twice a year. If your area has hard water, consider cleaning the tank more often to keep its interior and components in pristine condition. 

Why is it important to disinfect my toilet tank, not just clean it?

Cleaning removes visible dirt and buildup, but disinfecting is what truly helps protect your home. Germs can still linger in a toilet tank even if it looks clean. Lysol® In-Tank Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Continuous Action Puck kills 99.9% of germs, helping ensure your toilet tank is clean and fresh.

Can a dirty tank affect flushing performance?

Yes, dirt, grime, limescale, and mineral deposits can impair the toilet tank’s components, reducing flushing efficiency and increasing water waste.  

What are some signs that my toilet tank needs cleaning?

Some of the most common signs that your toilet tank needs cleaning include: 

  • Unpleasant odours 
  • Faulty flushing 
  • Frequent clogging
  • Visible mold or mildew 
  • Leaks and pooling water

How can I keep my toilet tank smelling fresh?

Regular cleaning and disinfecting with a Lysol® bathroom cleaner can help prevent the buildup of bacteria, mold, and mildew that may cause unpleasant odours. Pairing this with proper ventilation and routine bathroom upkeep will keep your toilet tank—and your whole bathroom—smelling fresh.

Recommended Products

  • LYSOL® IN TANK TOILET BOWL CLEANER - Continuous Action

    Packshot of Lysol In Tank Toilet Bowl Cleaner - Continuous Action 100 g

  • LYSOL® AUTOMATIC TOILET BOWL CLEANER - Nature Fresh InspirationsTM Crystal Waters

    Packshot of Lysol Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner - Nature Fresh Inspirations Crystal Waters

  • LYSOL® AUTOMATIC TOILET BOWL CLEANER - CLICK GELTM Spring Waterfall®

    Packshot of Lysol Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner - Click Gel Spring Waterfall 4 ct

  • LYSOL® TOILET BOWL CLEANER - Power

    Packshot of Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner - Power 710 mL
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