A clogged toilet is one of those inconveniences you'd rather avoid, but it can happen to anyone. Whether you've used too much toilet paper, accidentally flushed something that shouldn’t be flushed, or simply have a clog that has slowly built up over time, it can be frustrating. But don’t worry, there’s no need to call a plumber right away! In this article, we share 5 handy tips that can help you unclog your toilet. With the right approach, you can often fix the blockage yourself and quickly solve the problem.
Required tools
Before you start unclogging, it’s a good idea to have a few essential tools ready. Make sure you gather everything you need, so you don't have to stop in the middle of the process to find something. The basic tools you will need are:
Plunger (toilet plunger) – This is the most important tool for unclogging a toilet. A plunger creates pressure and suction to loosen the clog. Make sure you have a sturdy, rubber plunger specifically designed for toilets (not the flat type for sinks).
Rubber gloves – Safety and hygiene come first. Wearing rubber gloves will protect your hands from dirt and bacteria.
Bucket – If the water level in your toilet is too high and you don’t want it overflowing, a bucket is handy. It’s especially important if you need to remove some water before you begin.
Cleaning products – After you've finished unclogging, you’ll want to clean your toilet. Make sure you have a suitable cleaner to freshen up the area.
Hydraulic cleaner (optional) – In some cases, a liquid drain cleaner can help loosen stubborn clogs. However, this is only recommended if the blockage is not too deep in the pipes.
With these tools, you’re well-prepared to get started. But how do you tackle the clog effectively? Keep reading for five useful tips!
1. Use the plunger effectively
The most common way to unclog a toilet is by using a plunger. It may sound simple, but the way you use the plunger can make a big difference. Follow these steps to fix most clogs:
Step 1: Place the plunger in the toilet bowl and make sure the rubber edge covers the drain completely.
Step 2: Push the plunger down firmly and then pull it up quickly. This creates a suction and pressure effect that can loosen the clog.
Step 3: Repeat the motion several times. Sometimes, you may need to try multiple attempts before the blockage comes loose.
Step 4: Flush after a few attempts to check if the blockage is cleared. If the water drains more quickly, you’ve likely solved the problem.
2. Try hot water and dish soap
If the plunger doesn’t work right away, another simple and effective method is using hot water and dish soap. This works well for grease and soap residue that can cause a blockage. The hot water helps loosen the clog, and the dish soap makes it easier for the residue to slide through the pipes.
Step 1: Pour about half a bucket of hot water (not boiling) into the toilet bowl. The water should be hot enough to loosen the clog but not so hot that it damages the porcelain of the toilet.
Step 2: Add a generous amount of dish soap to the water. This helps soften the clog and makes it easier for the debris to flow through the pipes.
Step 3: Let the mixture sit for 15-30 minutes. This gives the liquids time to work.
Step 4: Try using the plunger again. Often, the clog is now easier to dislodge.
3. Use a drain auger
When the clog is deeper in the pipes, you may need to use a drain auger (also known as a toilet snake). This is a flexible metal wire that you insert into the drain to break up or reach the blockage. A drain auger is particularly useful for stubborn clogs that can’t be removed with a plunger.
Step 1: Insert the end of the auger into the toilet bowl and slowly start turning the auger in the direction of the pipe.
Step 2: When you feel resistance, it means you’ve reached the clog. Keep turning the auger to break through or loosen the blockage.
Step 3: Slowly pull the auger back and flush to check if the clog is cleared.
Note: A drain auger can be difficult to use for beginners. It’s important to be patient and careful to avoid damaging the toilet or pipes.
4. Use a chemical drain cleaner (with caution)
If the mechanical methods don’t work, you may consider using a chemical drain cleaner. This can provide a quick solution, but be cautious as these chemicals can be harmful to both your pipes and the environment. It's always best to try natural methods first.
Step 1: Follow the instructions on the product carefully. Add the recommended amount of drain cleaner to the toilet bowl.
Step 2: Let the cleaner sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Do not mix it with other cleaning products, as this can be dangerous.
Step 3: Flush to see if the clog is cleared.
Chemical drain cleaners are not always the best option but can help if all other methods fail.
5. Call a plumber
If after all your efforts, you still have a clog that doesn’t seem to go away, it may be time to call a professional. A plumber has the right equipment and expertise to solve the blockage quickly and effectively, without causing damage to your pipes. It’s better to seek help early than to struggle with a blockage that may only get worse.
Help! my toilet is blocked! 5 tips for unclogging your toilet
A clogged toilet is an unpleasant problem, but with the right approach, you can solve most clogs on your own. By using a plunger, hot water and dish soap, a drain auger, or even a chemical drain cleaner, you can often get the job done. However, if you find that the clog is persistent or deep in the pipes, it’s advisable to call in a professional plumber. With these 5 tips, you’re well-prepared and can quickly get back to enjoying a fully functioning toilet!
Does your toilet have a clog? Take the right steps now to quickly fix it.
If you have any questions after reading this blog, or if the clog remains stubborn, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help and can offer advice or even professional assistance to solve your problem quickly. Don’t hesitate, we’re happy to help!
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