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The best toilet cleaners, tried and tested for a squeaky-clean loo every time

Bust stubborn stains and stinky smells with ease

By and with products tested by Erik Chen and Jasmin Joyce
best toilet cleaners

Let’s face it, cleaning the toilet is gross. Probably the grossest of all the household chores. But unfortunately, it’s probably one of the most essential too. A clean toilet isn’t just about keeping your bathroom looking presentable; it’s essential for maintaining good hygiene and protecting your family from harmful bacteria. And when a job matters this much, it deserves products that actually work.

That’s where we come in. Our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have rolled up their sleeves, pulled on their rubber gloves and scrubbed, flushed and wiped to find the very best toilet cleaners on the market. We’ve spent more time with our arms inside a loo than we’d care to admit.

What is the best toilet cleaner to buy?

Our panel of testers used the toilet cleaners in their own homes over a span of two weeks, seeing how they performed in real world scenarios. To make it onto our list, these products had to be easy to use and tough on stains like mould, mildew and limescale, plus anything else your toilet may have in store…

1
Best toilet cleaner

Harpic Power Plus Toilet Cleaner

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Power Plus Toilet Cleaner

Pros

  • Versatile as it can be used to clean sinks, showers and more
  • Required very little additional scrubbing
  • Didn’t stain the bowl

Cons

  • Hard to tell how much was left in the bottle 

Score: 89/100

A firm favourite among our panellists, Harpic’s toilet cleaner delivered dependable cleaning power with minimal effort. What more could you want? Testers praised its ability to tackle tough stains and odours, with most finding little to no scrubbing was needed, even on limescale and urine build-up. The bottle’s angled design makes it easy to apply under the rim, and it adhered well to surfaces for deep cleaning.

People liked the mild scent, particularly those with sensitivities, though a few would have preferred a more refreshing fragrance. While the liquid's bright blue colour split opinion, it didn’t stain or overstay its welcome and provided satisfying coverage.

It is quite thin, so extra product was often needed, and many found it hard to tell how much was left in the bottle. Still, this was a winner overall thanks to its bleach-based stain removal powers.

Key specifications

Size 750ml
Cost per litre £2.21
Bleach-based?Yes
2
Best toilet cleaner for 'eco-friendly' claims

Ecover Pine & Mint Toilet Cleaner

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Pine & Mint Toilet Cleaner

Pros

  • Popular scent
  • Minimalist packaging and no neon-coloured liquid
  • Plant-based and biodegradable ingredients

Cons

  • It struggled with tougher stains
  • The clear gel made applying the right amount of product tricky

Score: 86/100

Made with plant-based and biodegradable ingredients, this is one of the more eco-friendly toilet cleaners we've tested. The fresh pine and mint scent was a hit with panellists and we liked how the design offered precise control when dispensing. A little went a long way too, making it a cost-effective choice.

Testers noted that it adhered well to the bowl and rim, effectively removing odours and improving overall brightness. However, its performance on tough stains and limescale was mixed, with only half of the panel finding it effective for heavy-duty cleaning. Some extra scrubbing should help achieve a sparkling bowl though.

All our panellists were happy with the product overall and said they'd use it again.

Key specifications

Size 750ml, 5l refill
Cost per litre £2.67
Bleach-based?No
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3
Best toilet cleaner for removing limescale

HG Toilet Cleaner Gel

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Toilet Cleaner Gel

Pros

  • Thick formula coats the bowl really well
  • Toilets were left noticeably brighter
  • Mild and fresh scent

Cons

  • Small size makes it less cost-effective

Score: 85/100

HG’s toilet gel cleaner stood out for its thick, adhesive formula and subtle, non-chemical scent, earning praise from those seeking a gentler, but still high-performing, solution.

The angled nozzle is good for targeted application and many panellists saw a noticeable difference in toilet brightness and limescale reduction after two weeks, with some calling it the best cleaner they’d used.

A few were disappointed by the small 500ml bottle, especially considering the price point. However, the majority of our testers were satisfied with its overall cleaning performance. This bleach-free gel is ideal for those who want a powerful, subtly scented option for regular or deep cleaning.

Key specifications

Size 500ml
Cost per litre £13.90
Bleach-based?No
4
Best supermarket toilet cleaner

Aldi Power Force Thick Bleach

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Power Force Thick Bleach

Pros

  • Powerful and fast-working
  • Strong results for tough stains and limescale
  • Easy to dispense

Cons

  • Hard to read the instructions
  • Wasn't that effective at eliminating odours, despite strong bleach smell

Score: 84/100

This bleach-based toilet cleaner proved a fantastic performer in testing, with panellists repeatedly praising how quickly it cleared stains. One tester claims to have seen marks vanish within 30 minutes; no scrubbing required whatsoever (the stuff of dreams). Many also noted how effectively it whitened and brightened the bowl. Its thick consistency helped the gel cling high up the sides of the toilet and reach under the rim, tackling stains and limescale effectively. Several testers also noticed a satisfying foamy action after flushing that reinforced its “deep clean” feel.

There's no denying it has a strong bleach smell, and we weren't keen on the small, hard-to-read label on the bottle. Overall though, all said they would keep using it and recommend it to others.

Key specifications

Size 750ml
Cost per litre £1.05
Bleach-based?Yes
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5

Viakal Toilet Gel Cleaner

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Toilet Gel Cleaner

Pros

  • Bleach-free
  • Gets to work quickly
  • Leaves surfaces clean, shiny and refreshed
  • Great design that's easy to use

Cons

  • Requires a bit more scrubbing than bleach-based alternatives

Score: 82/100

This bleach-free toilet cleaner earned strong praise for its ability to tackle limescale, general grime and odours, with several panellists noting how quickly it worked its magic.

The thick blue gel is easy to see and clung well to the bowl, leaving surfaces clean, shiny and refreshed. The bottle design also impressed testers; its contoured shape makes it comfortable to hold and easy to direct under the rim for precise application.

However, some found that it required extra scrubbing to lift really tough stains and it's not as powerful as bleach-based alternatives. But that may be a compromise you're happy to make for a product that's kinder on the environment.

While a few users disliked the fragrance and some said it left residue if not rinsed thoroughly, the vast majority of panellists were satisfied with its overall cleaning power and ease of use.

Key specifications

Size 500ml, 750ml
Cost per litre £6
Bleach-based?No
6
Best toilet cleaner for cleaning under the rim

Duck Deep Action Gel Toilet Cleaner Liquid

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Deep Action Gel Toilet Cleaner Liquid

Pros

  • Lovely fresh pine scent that sticks around
  • Cleverly designed nozzle makes cleaning under the rim a breeze

Cons

  • Dispenses very quickly, so it's hard to control the amount used

Score: 80/100

Our testers loved this cleaner for its ease of use, pleasant pine fragrance, and ability to tackle general grime and everyday toilet stains.

The specially shaped duck-neck nozzle, which the brand is famous for, made it simple to apply under the rim and panellists appreciated the thick gel texture, which clung well to the bowl.

However, several users said the gel dispensed too quickly, making it difficult to control the amount used. Some also found that it left behind coloured streaks that required multiple flushes or scrubbing to fully remove. Its performance on tougher stains and limescale was more limited than some of our top scorers too.

Key specifications

Size 750ml
Cost per litre £1.67
Bleach-based?No
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7

The Pink Stuff Toilet Gel Cleaner

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Toilet Gel Cleaner

Pros

  • Great for getting under the rim
  • Pleasing floral scent

Cons

  • Divisive colour
  • Struggled with really stubborn stains

Score: 77/100

This toilet cleaner impressed our testers with its ease of use, pleasant floral scent and effectiveness at tackling everyday grime. The formula, though on the thin side for some, clung well enough for regular cleaning, and the vast majority of testers said it left the bowl looking clean and fresh.

Its bright pink hue was a point of contention – some praised the visibility it offered during cleaning, while others found it off-putting and a bit garish.

When it came to tough stains and limescale, results were also a little mixed: while most saw visible improvements with minimal scrubbing, only half felt it performed strongly on the more stubborn marks. Still, with a bleach-free formula, easy-to-follow instructions, and a scent described as "divine" by several people, this holds its own as an effective, everyday cleaner.

Key specifications

Size 750ml
Cost per litre £1.54
Bleach-based?No
8

Easy Seriously Thick Bleach

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Seriously Thick Bleach

Pros

  • Straightforward and fuss-free
  • Subtle bleach smell
  • Delivered results in just 5 minutes

Cons

  • Could have clung to the bowl better
  • Struggled with stubborn stains
  • Hard to tell how much is in the bottle

Score: 76/100

Testers praised this cleaner for its solid stain-removal power, easy-to-handle bottle, and subtle bleach scent – a rare quality in bleach-based products. Unlike harsher alternatives, it left bathrooms smelling fresh, not chemical-heavy. The clear formula also got points for not staining porcelain, and many loved how quickly this worked, often delivering visible results in just five minutes.

Despite being marketed as a “seriously thick” bleach, some users found the formula runny and felt it could have clung better to the toilet bowl. It also struggled with lifting limescale and tougher build-up.

Still, with easy-to-read instructions, a reliable safety cap and a precise nozzle, it proved itself a dependable staple for regular toilet cleans.

Key specifications

Size 750ml
Cost per litre £6.28
Bleach-based?Yes
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9

Lidl W5 Thick Bleach Assorted

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
W5 Thick Bleach Assorted

Pros

  • Great price-point for an affordable option
  • Effective for everyday cleans and stains

Cons

  • Thinner and weaker formula than competitors
  • Struggled on stubborn stains and limescale
  • Child-proof cap proved difficult to remove

Score: 75/100

This cheap and cheerful bleach-based toilet cleaner left porcelain shiny and removed everyday marks. Many liked the pleasant, yet not overpowering, bleach scent (we tested the original cleaner; it also comes in a citrus scent) and the nozzle design made it easy to direct under the rim.

However, some said the bleach was thinner and weaker than they'd have liked, and the child-proof cap proved difficult to open, even for adults.

Overall, the majority said they'd continue using it, making it a good budget buy for everyday cleaning.

Key specifications

Size 750ml
Cost per litre 73p
Bleach-based?Yes
10
Best scented toilet cleaner

ASDA Cool Aqua Toilet Liquid Gel Cleaner

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Cool Aqua Toilet Liquid Gel Cleaner

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Fragrance lingers for a fresh, clean bathroom feeling
  • A reliable pick for everyday cleaning

Cons

  • Gel is a little on the thin side and struggled with limescale stains
  • Needed to use a brush for built-up stains

Score: 74/100

With a fresh, clean scent, ASDA's toilet cleaner was dubbed “the nicest-smelling toilet cleaner” they’d ever used by one panellist. The gentle fragrance lingered after flushing too and made the bathroom feel fresh and clean.

It scored highly for general cleaning, leaving bowls sparkling, especially with regular use. While it’s not the most powerful against heavy limescale, for day-to-day freshness and a consistently clean finish, this gel delivered reliable results.

Key specifications

Size 750ml
Cost per litre 82.7p
Bleach-based?No
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How we test toilet cleaners

To find the very best toilet cleaners, our experts looked far beyond just scent and sparkle. Each product was put through its paces by a panel of 10 testers, who all used the cleaners in their own homes to reflect real, everyday cleaning needs. The aim? To identify which products truly deliver, from the first squirt to the final flush.

Our testers evaluated each product across several key areas: ease of use, design and packaging, clarity of instructions, scent, and, most importantly, overall cleaning performance. We wanted to know: does it cling? Does it cut through grime? Is it easy to apply under the rim?

how we tested toilet cleaners

Each cleaner was applied and observed in action, with testers noting texture, consistency and how effectively it tackled dirt, stains, and limescale. Depending on performance, they flushed or scrubbed, noting whether the cleaner worked by itself or needed a helping hand. Scent strength and longevity were also rated, along with how well the product neutralised odours.

Testers were guided by a detailed checklist from the Good Housekeeping Institute, ensuring nothing was overlooked, right down to the font size on the label. Every reaction was captured via a detailed survey, with each product scored using a numerical rating system. Finally, testers were asked one key question: Would you buy and use this again based on your experience?

The result? A comprehensive and honest look at how these cleaners perform in the real world. All so you can choose one that will leave your toilet bowl gleaming, without any guesswork.

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Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we’ve been testing cleaning products for over 100 years, covering everything from the best laundry detergents to the best dishwasher tablets, and we don't cut corners. Our rigorous approach combines analysis of ingredients with real-life testing to ensure every product recommendation reflects how you’ll actually use it in your home.

When it comes to toilet cleaners, each one is put through its paces by our panel of at-home testers. Their feedback is then gathered through detailed surveys and passed to our household advice writer, Ella Duggan.

Ella has written countless cleaning and decluttering guides for Good Housekeeping, with a keen eye for what really works. Whether it’s the best all-natural surface cleaners or clever solutions for tackling stains on the go, she knows how to separate the gimmicks from the game-changers.

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How to get rid of brown rings around the toilet bowl

To get rid of those often stubborn brown rings around your toilet bowl, start by pouring 2 cups (475 ml) white vinegar into the bowl, making sure it covers the stained area. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the vinegar to work its magic. If the stain refuses to budge, sprinkle a bit of baking soda on top and scrub with a toilet brush. For tough stains that just won’t quit, grab a pumice stone (wet it first) and gently scrub away those marks without scratching the porcelain. It may seem strange, but our household advice editor swears by it.

To keep the rings from coming back, consider installing a water softener to tackle the mineral buildup in your water supply and make sure you’re keeping up with regular cleaning. And if you really want to keep things in check, try using a toilet cleaner with citric acid to dissolve any mineral deposits before they even have a chance to set up camp.


How often should you clean a toilet?

To keep your toilet safe from germs, it's important to clean and disinfect it regularly. A weekly clean should do the job. The goal is to prevent any harmful germs from sticking around. However, it's best to disinfect at least every two to three days if someone’s sick at home, so keep this in mind during cold and flu season.

As important as it is to clean the toilet, make sure you don't forget about your cleaning tools! Toilet brushes can harbour mould if left damp, so make sure to disinfect the brush after every use. Spray it with disinfectant, then let it air dry by hanging it between the toilet seat and bowl (keep the bristles above water).

For gloves, sponges, or any plastic cleaning tools, soak them in a bleach-water solution (three tablespoons of bleach per quart of water) for five minutes, then air-dry. You want your supplies to be just as germ-free as the toilet!

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The verdict: What is the best toilet cleaner?

So, where should you put your money? Well according to our testers, Harpic Power Plus Citrus Toilet Cleaner is the best bet for a sparkling toilet bowl time and time again. It emerged as the top overall choice, earning high marks for its powerful performance.

If you prefer an eco-friendlier option, the Ecover Pine and Mint Toilet Cleaner is a standout solution. It scored highly for its plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and delightful scent.

Our favourite supermarket pick is Aldi's Power Force Bleach so head in-store for this fantastic value cleaner.

Headshot of Ella Duggan
Ella Duggan
Household Advice Writer

As the Household Advice Writer, Ella covers all things home – from clever cleaning tips to the organisation tricks that really do make life easier. Before joining Good Housekeeping, she was a full-time freelance writer and production journalist at The Independent’s IndyBest reviews section, where she covered reviews, roundups, and product-related news articles, focusing on areas such as homeware and lifestyle products. With a keen eye for what actually works, she’s passionate about sharing practical, well-tested advice you can rely on.  You can reach her at her email address: Ella.duggan@hearst.co.uk

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