How to Clean the Toilet Rim & Jets | Cleaning Under the Toilet

Even after a thorough toilet bowl cleaning, there’s one area that’s easy to miss: the space directly under the rim. This hidden ledge is a prime spot for dirt, mineral deposits, and bacteria to collect. Because it’s dark, moist, and hard to reach, it traps grime that can lead to unpleasant odours and unsightly stains. If you’ve ever noticed stubborn brown streaks or a faint black ring, the source is likely lurking where you can’t see it.

This guide will show you how to clean under the rim of your toilet bowl effectively. We’ll cover simple, proven methods to remove even the most stubborn buildup and share tips to prevent it from returning. By the time you’re done, your toilet will be sparkling clean, hygienic, and flushing like new.

Why Dirt & Buildup Form Under the Toilet Rim

The underside of the toilet rim is a perfect environment for grime to accumulate. Each time you flush the toilet, water shoots out from small holes under the rim, called rim jets. Over time, several things can happen:

• Hard Water Minerals: If you have hard water, minerals like lime and calcium leave behind deposits. This scale creates a rough surface that traps waste and encourages bacterial growth.
• Bacteria and Mould: The dark, damp conditions under the rim are ideal for their growth. This can lead to black, orange, or pink stains and a persistent foul smell. This is often the cause of the dreaded “black mold” ring.
• Toilet Residue: Organic waste and urine can splash up and cling to the underside of the rim, creating buildup over time.

When these issues are left unchecked, they can cause more than just aesthetic problems. The buildup can clog the toilet rim jets, which weakens the flushing action of your toilet. You may notice that the toilet doesn’t flush as powerfully as it used to. Regular cleaning of this area is essential for maintaining hygiene and ensuring your toilet functions properly.

How to Clean Under the Rim of a Toilet Bowl (Step-by-Step Guide)

Cleaning under the toilet rim is straightforward once you have the right supplies and technique. Follow these steps for a deep clean.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, gather what you’ll need:

• A high-quality toilet brush, preferably with an angled head to reach under the rim.
• An old toothbrush or a small, stiff brush for detailed scrubbing.
• Your chosen cleaning solution (options include white vinegar, baking soda, or a commercial toilet bowl cleaner).
• Rubber gloves to protect your hands.

Step 2: Apply a Cleaning Solution

Apply your cleaner directly under the rim, ensuring you coat the entire area. If you’re using a liquid or gel cleaner, squirt it generously around the inside of the bowl, focusing on the rim. For a vinegar solution, you can use a spray bottle to apply it.

Step 3: Let It Sit

Patience is key. Let the cleaning solution sit for at least 15–30 minutes. This gives the cleaner time to break down and dissolve the grime, mineral buildup, and bacteria. For tough stains, you might let it sit a bit longer.

Step 4: Scrub Thoroughly

Using your angled toilet brush or a smaller brush, scrub the underside of the rim. Apply firm pressure to dislodge any stubborn deposits. An old toothbrush is perfect for getting into the small jet holes. Don’t forget to scrub the rest of the bowl for a consistent clean.

Step 5: Flush and Repeat

Flush the toilet to rinse away the loosened grime and cleaner. Inspect the rim to see if any stains persist. If you still see buildup, repeat the process. A second application is often enough to tackle heavy scale or long-standing stains.

Best Cleaners for Under the Toilet Rim

You don’t always need harsh chemicals to clean your toilet. Both natural and commercial options work well.

Natural Options

• Vinegar Spray: White vinegar is an excellent acidic cleaner that dissolves mineral deposits. Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and spray it under the rim.
• Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply it under the rim, let it sit, and then scrub. This is great for light stains and deodorising.
• Lemon Juice: The citric acid in lemon juice helps break down stains and leaves a fresh scent.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: This is an excellent option for disinfecting and tackling mould or mildew.

Commercial Options

• Toilet Bowl Gels: Many commercial toilet bowl cleaners come in a gel form with an angled neck, making it easy to apply the product directly under the rim.
• Descalers: If you have severe hard water buildup, a descaler like CLR (Calcium, Lime, Rust Remover) is very effective. Look for formulas designed explicitly for porcelain toilets.
• Disinfectant Cleaners: To kill germs and bacteria, choose a cleaner with disinfecting properties. Clorox toilet bowl cleaner is a popular choice.

What to Avoid

• Harsh Metal Brushes: Do not use steel wool or other metal scrapers, as they can scratch and damage the toilet bowl’s porcelain surface.
• Bleach-Only Cleaning: While bleach is a great disinfectant, it won’t remove mineral scale. You need an acidic cleaner to dissolve hard water deposits. Also, never mix bleach with ammonia-based cleaners or acidic cleaners like vinegar, as this can create dangerous chlorine gas.

Cleaning Different Types of Rim Buildup

The best approach depends on the type of buildup you’re facing.

• For Light Buildup: A simple vinegar soak or a baking soda scrub should be sufficient. Clean weekly to prevent it from getting worse.
• For Mould or Mildew: If you see black or green spots, use hydrogen peroxide or an anti-mould cleaner. Apply it, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then scrub away the mould.
• For Mineral Deposits (Hard Water Scale): Tough calcium and lime buildup requires an acidic cleaner. Use a commercial descaler gel or a citric acid solution. Apply it, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, and then use a stiff brush to scrub the deposits away.
• For Clogged Jet Holes: If the holes under the rim are blocked, the flushing power of your toilet will be reduced. Use a safety pin, a small piece of wire, or a toothbrush to gently poke into the rim jets and clear any mineral blockages. A final flush should show a more substantial flow of water.

How to Prevent Buildup Under the Toilet Rim

Consistent maintenance is the best way to keep your toilet rim clean.

• Clean Weekly: Make cleaning under the rim a part of your weekly bathroom routine. A quick spray with vinegar and a scrub with a toilet brush can prevent significant buildup.
• Keep Rim Jets Clear: Regularly check that the rim jets on your toilet are not clogged. A strong flush helps keep the bowl cleaner.
• Don’t Let Stains Sit: The longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. Address any discolouration as soon as you notice it.
• Use a Water Softener: If your home has very hard water, a water softener can reduce the mineral deposits that form in your toilet and pipes.

Your Path to a Cleaner Toilet

A sparkling-clean toilet is within reach and doesn’t require hours of scrubbing. By following these easy steps—applying the right cleaner, letting it sit, and giving it a good scrub—you can eliminate hidden grime for good. Regular, weekly attention to the area under the rim will prevent stains, odours, and flushing problems, ensuring your bathroom remains hygienic and fresh.

FAQs About Cleaning Under the Toilet Rim

1. Why does dirt build up under the toilet rim?

Dirt, minerals from hard water, and bacteria accumulate under the rim because it’s a moist, hard-to-reach area. The rim jets that release water during a flush can also get clogged with this buildup over time.

2. How do I remove black mould from under the rim?

To get rid of black mould, apply hydrogen peroxide or a commercial mould-fighting cleaner directly to the area. Let it sit for about 10 minutes and then scrub firmly with a stiff brush. Ensure good ventilation while you’re cleaning.

3. Can vinegar clean toilet rim jets?

Yes, vinegar is excellent for cleaning toilet rim jets. Its acidic properties help dissolve mineral deposits, such as lime and calcium, that clog the jet holes. For a deep clean, pour vinegar into the toilet tank and let it run through the jets with each flush.

4. What’s the best way to unclog mineral deposits in rim holes?

The best way is to use a small, pointed tool, such as a safety pin or paperclip, to scrape out the mineral deposits from each hole gently. Soaking the area with an acidic cleaner, such as vinegar or CLR, beforehand will make this process much easier.

5. How often should I clean under the toilet rim?

For best results, you should clean under the toilet rim at least once a week. This regular maintenance prevents the heavy buildup of minerals and bacteria, making the cleaning process much quicker and easier each time.