A clogged toilet can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem. However, with the right approach and tools, you can often resolve the issue yourself without needing to call a plumber. Here are step-by-step instructions and learn effective ways to unclog a toilet on what to do if your toilet is clogged.
1. Assess the Situation
First, determine how to unclog a toilet and the severity of the clog. If the water in the bowl is still rising, act quickly to avoid an overflow. Turn off the water supply to the toilet by locating the valve on the wall behind the toilet and turning it clockwise. This will prevent more water from entering the bowl and causing a mess.
2. Gather Necessary Tools
- Rubber gloves
- A plunger
- A toilet auger
- A bucket
- Old towels or rags
3. Use a Plunger
- Ensure the plunger has a good seal around the hole at the bottom of the toilet bowl. A flange plunger (which has an extra rubber ring on the bottom) works best for toilets.
- Place the plunger into the toilet bowl, making sure it covers the hole completely.
- Push down and pull up the plunger vigorously, creating a vacuum effect. Do this several times to dislodge the clog.
- Check if the water drains. If it does, flush the toilet to ensure the clog is completely gone. If not, repeat the plunging process.
4. Use a Toilet Auger
- Insert the auger into the toilet bowl and turn the handle clockwise to extend the cable into the drain.
- Keep pushing and twisting the auger until you feel resistance; this indicates you’ve reached the clog.
- Continue turning the handle to break up or retrieve the clog.
- Once the clog is cleared, retract the auger and flush the toilet to ensure normal flow.
5. Hot Water and Dish Soap
- Pour a generous amount of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
- Heat a bucket of water (not boiling, as extremely hot water can crack the porcelain) and carefully pour it into the bowl from waist height. The force of the water and the soap can help dislodge the clog.
- Wait for a few minutes, then try flushing the toilet.
6. Baking Soda and Vinegar
- Pour about one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Follow it with one cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, which can help break up the clog.
- Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, then pour a bucket of hot water into the bowl and attempt to flush.
7. Prevention Tips
- Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing items like wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or other debris.
- Consider using less toilet paper or flushing more frequently if you have a low-flow toilet.
- Regularly clean your toilet to prevent buildup that can lead to clogs.
