Adding baking soda to your toilet tank is a popular DIY trick for natural cleaning and maintenance. Here are 8 compelling reasons why it’s considered a must-do remedy:
1. Cleans the Tank Naturally
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and alkaline, which helps break down grime, mineral deposits, and mildew inside the toilet tank without harsh chemicals.
2. Reduces Odors
Baking soda neutralizes unpleasant smells. Adding it to the toilet tank helps eliminate musty or sulfur-like odors, keeping the bathroom fresher.
3. Prevents Limescale and Hard Water Buildup
In hard water areas, minerals like calcium and magnesium can accumulate inside the tank. Baking soda helps soften water and reduce scale formation on internal parts.
4. Improves Toilet Flushing Efficiency
By keeping internal parts like the flapper valve and float clean and free of buildup, baking soda helps the toilet flush more effectively and consistently.
5. Prolongs the Life of Internal Components
Clean tank components are less likely to degrade or corrode. Regular baking soda treatments may help extend the life of your toilet’s moving parts.
6. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Option
Baking soda is non-toxic and biodegradable. It’s a safer alternative to bleach or commercial toilet cleaners that may harm plumbing or septic systems.
7. Prevents Algae and Mold Growth
The alkaline environment created by baking soda discourages mold and algae from growing in the constantly damp environment of the toilet tank.
8. Simple and Inexpensive
Baking soda is affordable, widely available, and easy to use—just pour about ½ cup into the tank once a month and let it dissolve.