7 Ways to Unclog a Toilet

• Create a Seal: Position the plunger over the drain hole so it forms a seal.
• Create a Vacuum: Push the plunger down gently to expel air, then pull up quickly to create suction. Repeat this motion several times.
• Plunge Vigorously: Push and pull the plunger with force while maintaining the seal. Do this repeatedly for 15-20 seconds.

The Plumber’s Auger

When a plunger isn’t enough, a toilet auger (also known as a plumbing snake), is your next best friend. This tool is designed to navigate the twists and turns of the toilet drain and break up clogs.

• Insert the Auger: Gently push the auger into the toilet bowl until you feel the clog.
• Crank the Handle: Turn the handle to dislodge the blockage.
• Pull Out the Auger: Once you feel the clog has been snagged, pull the auger out, and flush the toilet.

Hot Water and Dish Soap

A surprisingly effective method uses items you already have in your kitchen: dish soap and hot water.

• Pour in Dish Soap: Squirt a generous amount of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
• Add Hot Water: Heat a pot of water (but don’t boil it) and carefully pour it into the bowl.
• Wait and Flush: Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to soften the clog. Then, flush the toilet.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Harsh chemical drain cleaners can damage your drains, but this natural remedy is safe for your pipes and the environment.

• Add Baking Soda: Pour about one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
• Pour Vinegar: Follow with one cup of vinegar. You’ll see fizzing as the reaction starts to work on the clog.
• Wait and Flush: Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. Then, try flushing the toilet.

Enzyme Waste Removal

Enzyme-based drain cleaners are a gentler, environmentally friendly option that works well for organic waste clogs. These products come with specific instructions with wait times of several hours. Pour the recommended amount and wait the time before flushing the toilet.

The Coat Hanger Method

If you don’t have a drain snake and are in a rush, you can consider this makeshift solution with a clothes hanger.

• Unwind the Hanger: Straighten the coat hanger, leaving a small hook at the end.
• Insert and Probe: Carefully insert the hooked end into the toilet drain and prod at the clog.
• Break Up the Clog: Gently push and twist the hanger to break up the blockage. Be careful not to scratch the toilet bowl.

Rubber Gloves and Manual Removal

Sometimes, the simplest solution is best, especially if the clog is within reach. Put on some rubber gloves and get in there! Reach into the toilet and remove the clog by hand. While not the most pleasant method, it can be very effective for accessible clogs.

Call Mr. Rooter to Hire a Plumber

Routine toilet maintenance is not something the average property owner schedules, but responsible homeowners and businesses understand the value of periodic maintenance. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is proud to offer this in our comprehensive plumbing service.

Whether you need a quick toilet repair or a professional drain cleaning, the uniformed plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing are ready, willing, and able to help. Call or message us today to get in touch.