There’s nothing worse than having to scrub away at stubborn stains in your toilet and, worse, not seeing them disappear. It’s one of those more mundane household tasks, like cleaning the washing machine or your tumble dryer, but finding the best toilet brush will not only make this feel like a breeze, it’ll keep your toilet cleaner for longer too.
According to Heather Barrigan, a cleaning expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, we could all be making a big mistake when using a toilet brush which, in turn, could be making our toilet even dirtier. "If a brush is put right back into its holder right after use, the moisture and germs from the toilet are then trapped into the container and brush." Yikes!
Heather then adds, "These germs are then released and rubbed back into your toilet the next time it’s used, as they’ve been breeding and multiplying. To avoid this, allow the brush to dry completely before returning to its container."
So, if this is an oversight you have been making, it's time to swap your old holder for the best toilet brush for cleaning your bathroom.
Key features you should look for in a brush
It doesn't matter if it's your first time buying a toilet brush or your twentieth, understanding what key features to look for in a cleaning device will improve your lavatory experience.
As products are constantly evolving, it can be hard to keep up with the latest technology, especially as any changes to these everyday items can be subtle and easy to miss. That said, here are some key features to look for in a brush:
Handle with good grip: While you're scrubbing the toilet, you don't want the brush to accidentally slip and fall into the bowl, that's why having a handle with a good grip is so important.
Size: Measure the space next to your toilet and buy a brush holder that will fit nicely. You might have to store a brush that's too big away from your loo, and you don't want that!
Strong bristles: Check out the reviews for your brush and ensure that the bristles are strong, but won't damage the bowl.
How we chose the best toilet brushes
Our team of Yours shopping experts have spent hours investigating and researching the best brushes so you can choose the best one. After all, we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
Whether you're picking your cleaning essential based on its design, features or budget - we've pulled together everything you need to know about the best brushes for cleaning your loo.
Best toilet brush for cleaning
Best quick drying toilet brush
Are you on the lookout for a toilet brush for those hard to reach areas? The ASOBEAGE Toilet Brush has a unique shape, which allows you to clean the loo unlike ever before. We cannot get over how flexible it is!
Verdict:
It's clear that this brush gets the thumbs up from us. But, don't just take it from our shopping experts, there are lots of incredible reviews for this toilet accessory.
Review:
"Now, none of us are fans of bog brushes, but I have to say this one is great. The bendy tongue end gets right under the rim. Better than any brush or duck-shaped bleach cleaner. A quick rinse in the bowl and it’s clear of any debris. No water sitting in the bottom of the holder. Just like John Wayne, it’s rough, it’s tough and it takes no sh..."
Pros
- Non-slip handle
- Quick drying holder
- Long-lasting brush
Cons
- Bristles hard to clean
Best silicone toilet brush
Go places that other toilet brushes cannot thanks toJoseph Joseph. We love that the Anti-clog construction means that dirt and toilet paper will never get stuck again.
Verdict:
Strong and flexible are usually two combinations that don't go hand-in-hand, but in this toilet brush's case, it sums up the product perfectly. However, some have found that the rubber bristles are too hard to clean the bowl effectively; it depends entirely on your preference.
Review:
"This is much nicer than a standard brush for the simple fact that it rinses off well and doesn't end up covered in unsightly bits with use. To be honest, it doesn't get the bowl clean as quick as a normal brush. There is a knack to it, but you will be able to clean the whole bowl and a few extra seconds is no big deal to know you have a cleaner brush itself."
Pros
- Flexible D-shaped head
- Widely spaced bristles
- Excellent design
Cons
- Some preferred a normal brush
Best toilet brush and holder
www.johnlewis.com
What doesn't this toilet brush do? It looks great, you can choose the right colour to suit your bathroom, the grip is second to none, and you won't experience any splashbacks with this number.
Verdict:
If you're looking for a reliable bog brush, you'll be won over by this device. It looks fabulous, is of great value, and is easy to clean, both your toilet and the brush itself. The soft-touch handle will give you the grip you need, while the lovely long toilet brush holder will keep your brush nicely contained.
Review:
"I'm very happy with this product. It sits neatly in the toilet and blends with the decor. Comfortable to hold and does the job for which it is intended."
Pros
- Easy-to-use
- Budget-friendly
- Hygenic
Cons
- Made from plastic
Best good grips toilet brush
www.lakeland.co.uk
Whether you're left or right-handed, this is a tool that will feel right to use. Thanks to the holder opening and closing automatically, this device is really discreet. Just what any lavatory needs.
Pros:
• Universal design
• Automatic holder
• Replacement heads available
Cons:
• Replacement heads expensive
Verdict:
What's not to like about the OXO Good Grips White Compact Toilet Brush? This toilet product will feel right at home in anyone's bathroom. It gets the green light for having replacement heads, so you don't have to change the whole unit every three to six months.
Review:
"This is my second one, the first one is still like new after several years. It is ideal compact , the lid closes itself to keep it contained stays clean and does the job gets into the corners of the toilet bowl"
Pros
- Universal design
- Automatic holder
- Replacement heads available
Cons
- Replacement head expensive
www.argos.co.uk
A cheap and cheerful set to finish off your bathroom - this sleek matte finish set of a slow closing bin and discreet toilet brush holder comes in multiple design choices so you can match to your bathroom.
Verdict:
Looking for a new set for your bathroom? In design choices of black, silver, cream and white, this slow close bin and toilet brush holder set will match discreetly in your bathroom.
Review:
"I bought this for my newly decorated bathroom and it finished it off perfectly. Sturdy, sleek and a great accessory."
Pros
- Comes as part of a set
- Sleek matte finish
- Discreet design
Cons
- Screws in toilet brush may need securing often
Best budget toilet brush
There's nothing fancy about scrubbing a toilet; that's why opting for a toilet brush that doesn't cost the earth can be best.
Verdict:
If you're looking for a no-frills toilet brush that is budget-friendly, then you've found it. Not only will it get the job done, but it's lightweight and a decent size, too.
Review:
"No complaints about this. It seemed to release a lot of limescale last use - good results. Handle feels a little thin for really vigorous use."
Pros
- Good value for money
- Versatile
- Sturdy
Cons
- Flimsy handle
Best toilet brush for design
We're digging the vintage design on this toilet brush holder. If you're going for a rustic or shabby chic look in your powder room, then this will fit right in.
Verdict:
We're leading with our design foot forward here. If you're all about aesthetics, this is the perfect toilet brush for you. The only thing we would say is that some reviewers have reported that this is really on the rustic side.
Review:
"Have looked for ages for a tasteful and functional loo brush. This one looks great and works well too. The brush part is excellent quality with very solid wood and is easy to clean. My only critique would be that the jug part could be more robust and heavier metal. However, it works perfectly and is of great value."
Pros
- Vintage design
- Discreet
- Great value for money
Cons
- Made from thin material
Best novelty toilet brush
www.dunelm.com
Anyone who's committed to the nautical bathroom theme needs a lighthouse toilet brush in their life. If you're looking for a novelty brush that will breathe a bit of fun into your bathroom, this is it.
Verdict:
Although this isn't for everybody, in the right home, this will look gorgeous. At the very least, it'll get a couple of chuckles out of the family.
Review:
"I absolutely love this cute lighthouse toilet brush holder. Made out of ceramic it almost looks too lovely to use and fits in perfectly with ocean themed bathroom. I think I will stock up on these so I always have a replacement in the future. Bargain price as a quality item."
Pros
- Easy-to-clean
- Good decorative piece
- Will put a smile on your face
Cons
- No replacement brush
Best hygienic toilet brush
With a choice of white or charcoal, this toilet brush set will bring the finish to your bathroom you've been seeking. Understated yet classy, the closed brush is hygienic and ideal for keeping the brush out of sight.
Verdict:
You won't have to scrub for hours thanks to the Addis Closed Toilet Brush Set. Described by one reviewer as a "super-duper loo brush" (couldn't have said it better ourselves), this brush is the multi-purpose cleaning tool of your dreams.
Review:
"I bought one years and years ago and it’s so sturdy and properly cleans, that I recently bought another for another of my bathrooms which is being used more now. I find the shape of the brush actually cleans the loo properly instead of those plastic flat heads that are popular now which barely does the job. Highly recommend!"
Pros
- Stiff bristle head
- Good size
- Wont rust
Cons
- Not as sturdy
Best toilet brush with scratch free bristles
Last, but certainly not least, we have the Maison & White Soft Bristle Toilet Brush. Similar in design to other brush holders on this list, but with one big difference - it has lovely soft bristle fibres to ensure your toilet bowl will not be scratched or damaged whilst cleaning.
Verdict:
Great value at a low price, the Maison & White Soft Bristle Toilet Brush is the simple yet effective option you've been holding out for. It boasts incredible features like the fact the bristles won't scratch the porcelain, and it comes with tweezers to remove hair from plugs and drains.
Review:
"I bought this as I was fed up of traditional brushes which don’t clean very easily and have a horrible brown stain around the base of the bristles within a short period of time. I liked the idea of a silicone brush as it means it’s easy to rinse under the flow of the water when you flush the toilet and can be cleaned using a bathroom cleaner or even something like Milton, without much hassle."
Pros
- 360-degree soft bristles
- Compact design
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Not as flexible
FAQs
Why do toilet brushes discolour?
Well, given what their job is (and without going into too much detail), you can only imagine why they discolour! Being exposed to unsanitary bacteria is going to take a toll on your brush. You can prevent this by cleaning it once a week, leaving it to soak in bleach-filled water for an hour. If it's been a while, it might be time for a replacement head.
How often should you replace your toilet brushes?
Believe it or not, you should aim to replace your toilet brush every six months. Some brands will offer replacement heads so that you're not having to buy the toilet brush holder every time. It's important to consider that, with the amount they need replacing, a plastic-free alternative might be a better option, especially for the environment.
Are toilet brushes unhygienic?
If left uncleaned, then yes, toilet brushes can be unhygienic. They trap unsanitary bacteria in their bristles, which is why it's so important to give them a good clean and replace them regularly. Provided you do this, a toilet brush can actually help with the overall hygiene of your toilet.