Best Methods to Unclog a Toilet

Nobody likes dealing with a clogged toilet, but unfortunately, it's a common problem that almost everyone will encounter at some point. Instead of panicking and calling a plumber right away, there are a few simple and effective ways to try and unclog your toilet yourself. Here are some best methods to unclog a toilet to help you tackle this messy situation.

Method 1: Use Plunger

One of the most common and effective methods for unclogging a toilet is using a plunger.

Plungers are designed to create a vacuum seal around the drain in order to dislodge whatever is causing the blockage. While some people may be hesitant to use a plunger due to the fear of making a mess or the thought of dealing with waste, it is actually a fairly straightforward and effective method for unclogging a toilet.

Here are some easy steps to follow when using a plunger to unclog a toilet:

1. Make sure you have the right type of plunger. There are two main types of plungers – a cup plunger (with a flat bottom) and a flange plunger (with a fold-out rubber flap). The cup plunger is best for sinks and tubs, while the flange plunger is best for toilets.

2. Put on some rubber gloves to protect your hands from waste and germs.

3. Place the plunger over the drain in the toilet bowl, ensuring that it creates a tight seal.

4. Push down and pull up on the plunger forcefully, using a gentle but firm motion. This will create suction and hopefully dislodge the blockage.

5. Repeat this motion several times until the water starts to drain properly. If the clog is particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat this process multiple times.

6. Once the toilet is unclogged, flush it to ensure that the water is draining properly.

If the plunger method does not work, you may need to try using a toilet auger or calling a professional plumber for assistance. However, in most cases, using a plunger is a simple and effective way to unclog a toilet.

Method 2: Hot Water and Soap

Another method that can be effective in unclogging a toilet is pouring hot water mixed with soap into the bowl.

Using hot water and soap can actually be just as effective, if not more so. The combination of hot water and soap helps to break down and dissolve the clog, allowing it to easily flush away.

To use hot water and soap to unclog your toilet, simply follow these steps:

1. Remove any excess water from the toilet bowl. You can do this by using a bucket to scoop out the water, or by using a plunger to push it down the drain.

2. Heat up a pot of water on the stove until it is just below boiling. You want the water to be hot, but not boiling, as boiling water can damage the porcelain of your toilet.

3. Add a generous amount of dish soap to the hot water. The soap helps to lubricate the clog and break it down, making it easier to flush away.

4. Carefully pour the hot water and soap mixture into the toilet bowl. Make sure to do this slowly to avoid causing the toilet to overflow.

5. Let the hot water and soap sit in the toilet bowl for about 10-15 minutes to allow it to work its magic.

6. Flush the toilet to see if the clog has been cleared. If the water drains normally, then you have successfully unclogged your toilet using hot water and soap.

Method 3: Baking Soda and Vinegar

For a more eco-friendly option, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to unclog your toilet.

Baking soda and vinegar are a dynamic duo when it comes to cleaning and unclogging drains. When combined, they create a fizzy reaction that can help break down and dislodge blockages in your pipes. Here's how you can use these two ingredients to unclog your toilet:

1. Start by pouring about one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl. Make sure to spread it evenly around the edges of the bowl.

2. Next, slowly pour two cups of vinegar into the bowl. Be prepared for some fizzing and bubbling as the two ingredients react with each other.

3. Let the mixture sit in the bowl for about 30 minutes. During this time, the fizzy reaction will work its magic and help break down the blockage.

4. After 30 minutes, flush the toilet to see if the blockage has been cleared. If the water starts to drain more easily, you can try flushing again to fully clear the clog.

Using baking soda and vinegar to unclog your toilet is also safe for your pipes and the environment. Unlike chemical drain cleaners, which can be harsh and damaging, baking soda and vinegar are natural, non-toxic alternatives that won't harm your plumbing or the planet.

Method 4: Plumbing Snake

If the above methods are not successful, you may need to use a plumbing snake to physically remove the clog.

A plumbing snake, also known as a drain snake or auger, is a long, flexible tool that is designed to reach deep into pipes to clear clogs. It is a cost-effective solution for unclogging toilets and other drains, and can save you the hassle and expense of calling a professional plumber.

Using a plumbing snake to unclog a toilet is a relatively simple process, but it does require a bit of patience and technique. Here are some steps to help you effectively use a plumbing snake to clear a clogged toilet:

1. Start by inserting the end of the plumbing snake into the toilet drain. Make sure to push it in slowly and gently to avoid causing damage to the pipes.

2. Once the snake is inserted, slowly turn the handle of the snake in a clockwise motion. This will help the snake navigate through the pipes and break up the clog.

3. Continue turning the handle and pushing the snake further into the drain until you feel resistance. This is an indication that the snake has reached the clog.

4. Once you have reached the clog, gently push and pull the snake back and forth to break up the blockage. You may need to repeat this process a few times to fully clear the clog.

5. Once you feel that the clog has been cleared, slowly remove the snake from the drain. Flush the toilet to ensure that the clog has been completely cleared.

Using a plumbing snake can be an effective way to unclog a toilet, but it is important to use caution and follow the instructions carefully to avoid causing damage to your plumbing system.

Call a Professional

If all else fails, it may be time to call a plumber. Some clogs are too stubborn or severe for DIY methods, and a professional can help assess the situation and safely remove the blockage.

Unclogging a toilet can be a messy and unpleasant task, but you don’t have to do it alone. Let the professionals at Tru Flo Plumbing take care of the problem for you. Our team is trained to handle even the toughest clogs, so you can trust that your toilet will be back to normal in no time.

How to Prevent Clogged Toilet

Be mindful of what you flush: One of the most common causes of a clogged toilet is trying to flush items that should not be flushed down the toilet. This includes things like baby wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products. These items do not break down easily in water and can quickly cause a blockage in your pipes. Stick to flushing only toilet paper and human waste to prevent clogs.

Use less toilet paper: While it may be tempting to use a lot of toilet paper to ensure cleanliness, using excessive amounts can lead to a clogged toilet. Try to use only as much toilet paper as you need and consider using thinner, more easily dissolvable brands.

Install a toilet paper holder: Sometimes clogs can occur simply because of excess toilet paper being accidentally dropped into the toilet bowl. Installing a toilet paper holder can help prevent this by keeping the toilet paper in a designated spot where it won't accidentally fall into the bowl.

Keep a plunger handy: Even with the best preventative measures, clogs can still happen. Make sure you have a plunger on hand to quickly and easily clear any blockages that may occur.

Regular maintenance: To prevent clogs in the long term, it's important to regularly maintain your plumbing system. This includes things like cleaning your toilet regularly, checking for leaks, and scheduling regular inspections with a plumber to ensure everything is working properly.