Try This Trick: Put a Plastic Bottle in Your Toilet Tank to Reduce Odor

If you’ve cleaned your toilet thoroughly but an unpleasant smell still lingers, you may want to try an unexpected yet effective trick: placing a plastic bottle inside your toilet’s water tank.

Why Put a Plastic Bottle in the Toilet Tank?

Bathrooms are easily one of the places most prone to foul odors. These smells can come from clogged drainage pipes, an overflowing septic tank, or simply poor cleaning habits. But even with regular cleaning, some stubborn odors just won’t go away.

This is where the plastic bottle trick comes in.

How to Prepare the Bottle

1. Prepare an empty plastic bottle and fill it about two-thirds full of water.

2. Add a toilet-cleaning solution into the bottle.

3. Close the cap and shake well so the cleaning liquid dissolves evenly.

4. Heat a small nail over a flame and poke two tiny holes at the bottom of the bottle. You can also use a sharp pair of scissors to make the holes if preferred.

Once done, open the toilet tank lid and place the bottle inside.

How It Works

When the toilet is idle, very little liquid leaks out of the bottle. But once you flush, the strong flow of water forces some of the cleaning solution to slowly release into the tank and bowl. This helps:

• Clean the toilet with every flush

• Reduce odor effectively

• Kill bacteria

• Save you time and effort from constant scrubbing

This method essentially creates a simple DIY automatic cleaner—cheap, easy, and surprisingly effective.

Other Useful Ways to Deodorize Your Toilet

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent with excellent deodorizing abilities. Wet the toilet surface, sprinkle baking soda generously, scrub with a brush, and flush. It loosens stains and eliminates odors without harsh chemicals.

2. White Vinegar or Lemon Juice

Both vinegar and lemon juice contain natural acids that soften stains, kill bacteria, and neutralize odors.

• Pour a bowl of vinegar or the juice of three lemons over the toilet surface.

• Let it sit for about an hour before scrubbing.

For even better results, combine baking soda with vinegar or lemon juice. The fizzing reaction helps lift tough stains effortlessly.

Deodorizing the Bathroom Area

Using Lemongrass (Sả)

Crush several stalks of lemongrass to release their fragrance and hang them in your bathroom. The fresh, calming scent spreads quickly and helps mask unpleasant odors.

Using Lemon

Lemon’s clean, refreshing scent makes it a popular natural deodorizer.

• Squeeze the juice of 3–4 lemons.

• Pour half into the toilet, half into bathroom corners and drains.

• Close the door for an hour before rinsing.

This helps eliminate sewage odors and leaves a bright citrus aroma.

Using Pineapple (Dứa)

A creative yet powerful method:

• Hollow out a pineapple and place a small lit candle inside.

• The gentle heat helps release the fruit’s natural fragrance.

This can freshen up the entire bathroom, especially after deep cleaning.

Aroma Wax or Scented Gels

Scented wax is simple and effective. It emits a subtle fragrance that quickly neutralizes bad smells. However, it may melt in hot and humid conditions, so place it in a cool spot.

White Vinegar in the Toilet Tank

Pour a small amount of vinegar directly into the toilet tank and flush a few times. Vinegar naturally disinfects, removes mineral buildup, and eliminates odors.

Place Indoor Plants in the Bathroom

Certain plants thrive in low-light, humid environments and purify the air naturally. Great bathroom-friendly options include:

• Pothos

• Snake plant

• Mint

• Ivy

• Aloe vera

These plants not only filter odors but also improve air circulation and add a relaxing touch to your bathroom décor.