Here's an easy, effective, and non toxic way to keep your toilet sparkling clean, without the hassle of making fiddly toilet bombs!
Many commercial toilet cleaners contain harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach, ammonia, and fake fragrances, which can pass through sewage treatment plants and enter waterways, affecting aquatic ecosystems.
Our DIY alternative avoids those synthetic chemicals entirely, using natural ingredients that are just as effective without the environmental impact. Let’s dive into how the ingredients in our DIY Fizzy Toilet Cleaner work their magic.
Firstly, what's the problem with commercial toilet cleaners?
Most toilet cleaners in Australia (such as Harpic, Duck, White King and Bref) contain harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach, ammonia, hydrochloric acid, and very strong synthetic fragrances (not that you would know because they do not disclose the ingredients on the label).
When flushed, these chemicals can pass through sewage treatment plants and enter waterways, where they disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Chlorine bleach, for example, releases toxic byproducts called dioxins, while ammonia contributes to nutrient pollution, leading to harmful algal blooms.
Fake fragrances contain phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors affecting both wildlife and human health.
By opting for natural cleaning alternatives, we can reduce these pollutants and protect the environment.
An additional surprising note, most toilet cleaners on the shelves in Coles and Woolworths are made in Indonesia, Poland, Vietnam, and Mexico!
How To Make Fizzy Toilet Cleaner Powder
You'll need:
- 1 cup of bi-carb soda
- ⅓ cup of citric acid
- 20 drops of Biome’s Native Essential Oil (or your own blend of Lavender, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus)
- Airtight glass jar or container
How to make:
- Add the bi-carb soda and citric acid to your airtight container.
- Add 20 drops of essential oil.
- Put the lid on the jar, shake well, and your fizzy toilet cleaner is ready to use!
To clean, simply sprinkle two tablespoons into the toilet bowl, scrub lightly with a plastic free toilet brush, let it fizz, and then flush for a fresh and clean result.
How these toilet cleaner ingredients work
Bi-Carb Soda (Baking Soda)
Being interested in eco friendly cleaning, you likely already know that bi-carbonate soda is versatile cleaning powerhouse. It gently scrubs, neutralises odours, and breaks down dirt without scratching surfaces. In this toilet cleaner, bi-carb soda helps lift grime while neutralising any unpleasant smells.
Citric Acid
Citric acid, naturally found in citrus fruits and also synthetically made, is a favourite ingredient in eco-cleaning products. Its acidic nature helps to dissolve mineral build-up, water stains, and grime, while also serving as the “fizzing” agent when combined with bi-carb. That fizzing reaction isn’t just for show—it’s a chemical reaction that helps loosen grime and break down stains effectively.
Biome Native Essential Oil Blend
Biome’s Native Essential Oil blend includes several powerhouse Australian oils, each contributing its unique properties:
- Lemon Myrtle: strong antibacterial and anti-fungal qualities, adding a fresh, uplifting scent.
- Nerolina: mild floral aroma with soothing, cleansing properties.
- Eucalyptus citriodora: cooling, citrus-scented oil with natural antibacterial and deodorising qualities.
- Kunzea: fresh, woodsy aroma with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
- Bush Balm: calming effects and antibacterial properties.
- Tea Tree: powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, helping keep your toilet extra fresh.
Together, these oils not only add a refreshing and earthy scent but also bring natural antibacterial, anti-fungal, and deodorising benefits to your fizzy toilet cleaner powder.
An alternative to this powder is ready made Toilet Bombs that our customers love too. Find the most popular natural toilet bombs here.
Tips for storage
Should moisture get into your powder, the chemical reaction will start and the powder will harden. Hence why airtight storage is important.
Don’t worry if it clumps up—it’s still perfectly fine to use. Just break it up into smaller pieces before sprinkling in the toilet, and it will work just as effectively.
To avoid hardening, it's ideal to make a batch for just a few uses at a time.
FAQs about DIY Fizzy Toilet Cleaner Powder
Q: Can I add Oxygen Bleach to this recipe?
A: It’s best not to combine oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) with this recipe. Oxygen bleach is powerful and effective on its own, breaking down stains and sanitising surfaces. However, combining it with citric acid can neutralise some of its cleaning power.
Instead, if you’d like to use oxygen bleach to get rid of stains, alternate between using it and your Fizzy Toilet Cleaner Powder. Use one in the morning and the other in the evening for the best results without any chemical interference.
Q: How often should I use the fizzy toilet cleaner?
A: For regular maintenance, use it once or twice a week with a plastic free toilet brush. Increase the frequency if you have hard water build-up or frequent staining.
Q: Will the essential oils harm my septic system?
A: No, essential oils used in small quantities are safe for septic systems. In fact, they can add a pleasant aroma without disrupting the balance of beneficial bacteria.
Q: Can I use this cleaner for other surfaces in the bathroom?
A: This blend is formulated specifically for the toilet, but it can work well on bathroom sink drains, too! However, do not use it on marble or natural stone surfaces, as the acidity from the citric acid may cause etching.
Q: How long does the mixture last?
A: As long as you store it in an airtight container, it should stay effective for several months. Just make sure to shake it gently before each use to keep the ingredients well-mixed.
Using this non toxic DIY Fizzy Toilet Cleaner Powder is an excellent way to avoid harmful chemicals, and reduce plastic waste, while keeping your bathroom fresh and sparkling. Give it a try—your bathroom (and the planet) will thank you!
Non Toxic Toilet Cleaning Alternatives Available at Biome >>
