Last Updated: December 29, 2022

5 best natural toilet bowl cleaners that work.

WRITTEN BY Grove Collaborative • 12 min read

We know (we know), toilets are our very least favorite thing to clean, too, but don’t let toilet troubles get you down. Avoiding cleaning the toilet can just leave a much bigger mess the longer you let it go (not to mention bacteria and mold galore). All you need is a good toilet bowl cleaner to do the hard work, and this Grove Co. Toilet Brush with Replaceable Head is a big help, too.


You can also start by looking for one of the best natural toilet cleaners — you can find a wide variety on our list of the best natural toilet bowl cleaners that work below. From top-selling brands like method and Mrs. Meyer’s, compare and shop products like this Seventh Generation Zero Plastic Toilet Bowl Cleaner Powder that creates zero waste in your home with innovative designs like a fully recyclable container.


This list of products was determined by ratings and reviews from Grove members.

1. Seventh Generation Zero Plastic Toilet Bowl Cleaner Powder

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This Seventh Generation Zero Plastic Toilet Bowl Cleaner Powder comes from Seventh Generation’s line of products formulated with special waterless technology and dry-locked cleaning powder. This foaming toilet cleaner’s dry-locked cleaning power is activated by water, which means it’s especially effective at getting one of the dirtiest spots in …

(94)
14 oz
$10.99
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2. method Toilet Cleaner

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Banish germs and grime from the toilet with method toilet cleaner. This antibacterial toilet bowl cleaner uses citric acid to tackle tough-to-kill bacteria and stains, leaving behind a clean toilet bowl and a refreshing spearmint and peppermint scent, with just a hint of geranium. Use this method toilet cleaner for an easy way to tackle one of your …

(3443)
24 Oz
$5.49
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3. Mrs. Meyer's Toilet Cleaner

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This Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Toilet Bowl Cleaner makes conquering the dreaded chore of toilet bowl cleaning a breeze. With essential oils and plant-derived cleansers and other thoughtfully chosen ingredients such as natural citric acids, this toilet bowl cleaner makes quick work of stains, and grime. Clean and deodorize with your choice of Lavender …

(568)
24 Oz
$6.49
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4. Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner

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Stop nasty bacteria and germs from growing where you go with this Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner. This cleaner is biodegradable, non-toxic, chlorine bleach-free, and dye-free so you can be the queen of clean and get your porcelain throne spotless without using harsh chemicals. It’s also scented with essential oils and botanical extracts for …

(283)
32 Oz
$4.99
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5. DRAINBO Septic System Treatment

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There’s nothing more annoying than clogged drains in your home. Protect your septic system routinely before buildup happens with DRAINBO Septic System Treatment. This drain cleaner is the only septic system treatment and cleaner that’s certified by the Natural Products Association, and it’s paraben-free, sulfate-free, triclosan-free, and naturally …

(53)
64 oz.
$12.99
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FAQs

Are toilet bowl cleaners safe for septic systems?

Many people aren’t always aware, but some toilet bowl cleaners can actually do more harm than good if you have a septic system. The things you’ll want to keep an eye out for under the ingredients list on the products you’re picking are chlorine bleach or chemical sodium hypochlorite. These harsh chemicals can make your septic tank back up and cost you a lot of money just to get everything working properly again. Instead, pick one of the best natural cleaners for toilets like this Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner.


Another alternative to nasty chemical-filled cleaning products to use with septic systems is baking soda like this Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda, 1 lb found right here on Grove. Here’s what to do with the baking soda:


How do you use a toilet bowl cleaner?

When it comes to using a toilet bowl cleaner, it’s not really rocket science. Usually, you just squirt the toilet cleaner you’re using under the toilet bowl rim and then use a brush like this Grove Co. Toilet Brush with Replaceable Head. Many people leave their cleaners on for about 15 minutes before they rinse it or flush to make sure it's getting rid of everything it possibly can, and some even let the toilet cleaner soak on the toilet before they start scrubbing. As you can imagine, your toilet is squirming with some of the grossest bacteria in your whole house.


Need something to freshen things up in between cleans? This Grove Co. Clear the Air Toilet Spray is great for eliminating odors before you even sit down. For other ideas on how to keep things smelling pleasant, check out 7 of the best soy candles for your home to find bathroom-approved candles.


Can you use toilet bowl cleaner in your shower?

Toilet bowl cleaner in the shower? Why even chance it — the product is literally designed to blast away germs where you poo. Many toilet cleaners are toxic, and even the best natural toilet cleaners can still have ingredients you should avoid puttin near your skin. If you’re looking for a strong, yet naturally derived shower cleaner, shop all bathroom cleaners on Grove or see our list of the 11 best bathtub and shower tile cleaners.


Got your cleaner covered, but need help tackling your shower itself? Read our articles, How to clean a shower head, How (and when) to clean your shower curtain, and How to clean a clogged drain. These are great go-to guides to be able to clean your entire shower and not just your tub and tile. Remember, a clean home is a happy home.


What is Grove Collaborative?

At Grove, we take the guesswork out of which products are good for you and your home. Every product meets strict standards for being nontoxic, effective, sustainable, and cruelty-free. Once you find products you love, we ship to your home on a flexible, monthly schedule.


If you're ready to make the transition to natural cleaning, beauty, and household products, shop Grove Collaborative's natural products for the eco-friendly tools to tackle the job.

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