Can you put a bar of soap in a toilet tank?

Danielle
by Danielle

I am always looking for a good cleaning hack and came across one where a lady put a bar of soap in the toilet tank. Before I try this out, I was wondering if it could cause issues.



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Can you put a bar of soap in the toilet tank?

  21 answers
  • I've read conflicting views on this idea. Personally, I wouldn't do it.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Jan 11, 2023

    I've heard of complications with it and the seals inside the tank. Bar soap has quite the residue build up I have observed as my husband uses bar soap and I do not, his shower requires much more cleaning than mine.

  • Hey there, Danielle! Based on what I have read, Experts have warned the public not to put dishwashing liquid down the toilet as it's bad for the pipes. Also, you can check out this link for more information. Hope this helps!


    https://www.heart.co.uk/lifestyle/plumbers-warn-against-cleaning-hack/

    • Jarron Remington Jarron Remington on Jul 09, 2024

      Why would dishwashing liquid hurt? The Dishwashing liquid ends up in the pipes and septic system anyway. There aren't seperate pipes for toilets and sink water.

  • Dee Dee on Jan 11, 2023

    My brand of commode, says not to put anything in the tank as it will void the warranty. I would never put soap as it could leave scum.

  • William William on Jan 11, 2023

    I don't see for what purpose. It will slowly dissolve and the chemicals can damage the rubber seals. It can also create buildup in the toilet flush ring since it won't be rinsed off well.

    • Danielle Danielle on Jan 12, 2023

      I was hoping it would clean with every flush but I am now understanding it might not be the greatest idea. Thanks

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Jan 11, 2023

    I would not do it, it could effect the seals and the ring that seats them.

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jan 11, 2023

    Maybe try it out by using the ends of soap when you replace a bar?

  • That I personally would not try. The soap could foam up, damage the tank, or cause other issues.

  • Janice Janice on Jan 11, 2023

    I wouldn't recommend doiong this as it might result in soap scum forming on the inside of the tank plus over time it is likely to affect the seals in the tank.

  • Jeremy Hoffpauir Jeremy Hoffpauir on Jan 14, 2023

    I would not put a bar of soap in a toilet tank. Instead, I would use a toilet bowl cleaner like this one: https://amzn.to/3QEpPVc

    This cleaner is also septic tank safe.


    Hope this Helps! Jeremy


  • Sharon Sharon on Jan 14, 2023

    Since soap is fat-based, it could lead to a build-up on the interior surface. If you are looking to keep the tank clean, I would go with vinegar.

  • Goldbeargirl Goldbeargirl on Jan 20, 2023

    NO NO NO! Never put soap in your toilet tank - it will leave scum build up and ruin seals. Will cause you problems when you didn't have any to begin with. I would not do it.

  • Mogie Mogie on Mar 02, 2023

    Seems like people are divided on this issue. Personally I wouldn't but using vinegar appears to be recommended by everyone.

  • Vanessa Vanessa on Aug 06, 2023

    I don't understand why this has to be done? 🙄All such there are special products that will dissolve properly and perform their cleaning functions.

  • Deb K Deb K on Jun 07, 2024

    Hi Danielle, hope this helps you. the answer is no. I don't see for what purpose, it won't clean the tank water. It will slowly dissolve and the chemicals can damage the rubber seals. It can also create buildup in the toilet flush ring since it won't be rinsed off well.


  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Jul 09, 2024

    I would be very insecure about adding anything that enters into the toilet bowl to accomplish a task of cleaning this, that, and the other. All too often toilet parts are set up to fail, resulting in problems and replacements.

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jul 11, 2024

    Try it with the end of soap bar first before using the whole bar.

  • Gloria Arnold Gloria Arnold on Sep 24, 2024

    Don’t do it. I’m speaking from first hand experience and I’ve had problem ever since I did it. Now does anyone know how to clear up the problem???

  • No I would absolutely not do that.

  • Deb K Deb K on Aug 07, 2025

    Hi Danielle, hope this helps you.

    Potential Problems (long-term):

    1. Residue Buildup:
    2. The soap may not dissolve completely, leading to a layer of soap scum that can attract more dirt and bacteria.
    3. Damage to Toilet Parts:
    4. Some soaps, especially those with dyes or strong fragrances, can stain or damage the rubber and plastic components of the toilet tank, including the flapper and other mechanisms.
    5. Clogs:
    6. If the soap doesn't fully dissolve, it could potentially clog the toilet or plumbing system, especially if combined with other debris.
    7. Potential for Chemical Reactions:
    8. Some soaps might react with other cleaning products or the chemicals in the water, leading to undesirable outcomes.

    Alternatives:

    1. Regular Cleaning:
    2. For effective and safe cleaning, it's best to regularly clean the toilet bowl with a toilet bowl cleaner and the tank with vinegar or a toilet-safe cleaner.
    3. Toilet Cleaning Tablets:
    4. Consider using toilet bowl cleaning tablets designed for use in the tank. These are formulated to dissolve properly and won't damage the toilet's components.
    5. Dish Soap (for unclogging):
    6. If you're looking to unclog a toilet, dish soap can be helpful, but it's not a long-term solution for cleaning.

    In conclusion, while the "soap in the toilet tank" trick may seem appealing, it's generally not recommended due to the potential for problems. Opting for regular cleaning with proper cleaning products and/or using specifically designed toilet cleaning tablets is a safer and more effective way to keep your toilet clean.