What not to use on porcelain toilet?

Author: Kitty Steuber  |  Last update: Saturday, May 10, 2025

Clean With Appropriate Cleaning Products Choose cleaning products that are designed specifically for cleaning toilets. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, bleach, or other harsh chemicals that can damage your toilet's surface.

What can damage a porcelain toilet?

Cleaners. Using harsh chemical cleaners can also cause damage. Many commercial toilet bowl cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that can erode the porcelain finish and damage the toilet's internal components. Over time, this erosion can weaken the toilet, leading to leaks and cracks.

What should you not use on porcelain?

Porcelain tiles tend to be harder, more resilient and more stain-resistant than ceramic tiles. They are one of the easiest types of tile to maintain but their surface can eventually be eroded by the regular use of corrosive chemicals such as ammonia, bleach or acids that can also damage the grout and loosen the tiles.

What damages porcelain?

Do not use abrasive or acidic cleaners as they can damage the porcelain surface. Avoid using steel wool or rough brushes that can scratch the tiles. Don't allow cleaning solutions to sit on the tiles for extended periods, as it may cause discoloration.

How do you clean a toilet without damaging porcelain?

The best way to remove stubborn calcium deposits from your toilet bowl is to use a pumice - a light, porous stone. Make sure to wet the pumice stone with water and apply only gentle pressure when scrubbing to avoid damaging the porcelain.

I poured Vinegar into my Toilet to Clean it. Here’s what happened!

Is vinegar safe on porcelain toilet?

Vinegar is safe and milder than caustic cleaners designed for the toilet, and those commercial cleaning agents can eat away the good bacteria in your septic system. To safely and inexpensively clean your toilet bowls, pour a generous glug of vinegar, followed by a heavy sprinkling of baking soda, into the bowl.

How do you get urine stains out of a porcelain toilet?

How to remove new urine stains on porcelain & glazed surfaces?
  1. Blot up excess urine with paper towels.
  2. Spray with urineFREE.
  3. Allow to dry.
  4. Lightly sponge surface with water to remove any residue.

What is bad for porcelain?

Never use detergents which contain waxes, oily substances or fragrances, or products which apply polish to the surface: apart from being unnecessary, they may also leave a film which is then hard to remove (and to which other dirt will stick).

Will vinegar hurt porcelain?

Experts strongly advise against using vinegar for cleaning porcelain tiles. The harsh acidic action of vinegar can be harmful for the grout and glazing on your porcelain tiles. Vinegar can be detrimental for the glaze or any other surface treatment on your tiles.

What ruins porcelain?

While porcelain is resistant to scratches, etching and stains, these surfaces are not damage proof. Take care to avoid exposing porcelain to permanent inks or dyes, as these might not be removable.

Can I use Dawn on porcelain tile?

This homemade grout cleaner with Blue Dawn is the best and safest for your hard surfaces! Especially ceramic and porcelain tile and grout!

What is the major disadvantage of porcelain?

Porcelain Tile Disadvantages

Regular maintenance and cleaning can help to prevent discoloration and mold. Porcelain tiles can feel cold underfoot, especially in cooler weather. Porcelain tiles can be hard and unforgiving, leading to discomfort if standing or walking on them for extended periods of time.

Does bleach destroy porcelain?

For white porcelain only, bleach can be used to remove stains; never use chlorine bleach in colored or vintage porcelain, as it can damage the finish. For both white and colored porcelain, liquid oxygen bleach (such as hydrogen peroxide) is a good alternative.

What is the life expectancy of a porcelain toilet?

However, on average, a well-maintained and high-quality porcelain toilet can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. With regular care, proper maintenance, and attention to potential issues, you can maximize the lifespan of your toilet and potentially extend it beyond the average.

How do you get brown stains out of a porcelain toilet?

Simply pour a kettle of almost boiling water into the bowl, follow up with 250ml of citric acid, and leave it for some hours – preferably overnight. The next day, scrub and flush. What's good for those caked-on pots and pans after cooking dinner is also good for removing a brown stain on the bottom of the toilet bowl.

What would cause a porcelain toilet to crack?

Old age: Toilets become vulnerable to cracking with old age, so you should be sure to get a routine inspection if it is nearing the end of its lifespan. Heavy impact: Sharp or blunt force impacts of something hard on the toilet bowl can cause cracks to form.

What not to use on porcelain?

Never use steel wool to clean porcelain tile. This is because small pieces of steel can become embedded in the tile and/or grout which in turn can cause rust stains. Refrain from using hard bristles or scrub brushes, as they can scratch the tile surface. Make sure to not use any cleaners that contain dye or colouring.

Does baking soda damage porcelain?

Though popular for being gentler alternatives to harsh chemical cleaners, baking soda, Borax, and even salt can harm the finish of your porcelain fixtures. As gentle as they are, these compounds are still abrasive and will scratch your finish, especially with regular use.

What should you not clean porcelain with?

Must-Know Cleaning Porcelain Floor Tiles Tips
  • Never use steel wool to remove stains. ...
  • Avoid using wax or oil-based cleaners; they leave a residue that attracts dust and dirt.
  • Use plain warm water during routine cleaning. ...
  • Always remove dust and dirt before you mop.
  • Never use abrasive tools, as they damage the floor.

What are the weaknesses of porcelain?

Conclusion: While porcelain tiles possess numerous advantages, it is essential to consider their drawbacks before deciding on their implementation. The higher cost, installation complexity, susceptibility to damage, slippery surface, and cold/hard feel are notable disadvantages associated with porcelain tiles.

What is the lifespan of porcelain?

Average Lifespan of Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns on front teeth generally last between 10 to 15 years, but with proper care, they can last even longer. Several factors influence their longevity, including: Quality of the Crown: High-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship ensure a longer-lasting restoration.

Is it bad to leave pee in the toilet overnight?

Bacterial Growth: Stagnant urine in the toilet bowl can lead to bacterial growth, which can find its way into your plumbing system. Bacteria can cause unpleasant odors and, in some cases, even health concerns.

How do I make my porcelain toilet white again?

The one-two punch of hydrogen peroxide cleans stains and kills germs, leaving your toilet bright, white, and healthy.
  1. Pour a half-cup of hydrogen peroxide into the toilet and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  2. Use your toilet brush to scrub the stains.
  3. Add a sprinkle of baking soda and scrub again if the stains persist.

Can you use CLR on porcelain toilets?

Use on most bathroom surfaces including: porcelain, ceramic tile, shower doors, sinks, bathtubs, white grout and caulk, toilet bowls, and fiberglass. Will not remove rust. Do not use on vinyl, natural stones, mirrors, plastic laminates, wood, fabrics, painted, coated or sealed surfaces, colored grout or wall coverings.

Previous article
Can I install my own dryer?
Next article
How much underlay will I need?