As a builder and someone who has worked with Plumbers for years, I know how frustrating it can be for typical homeowners to Unclog a Toilet.
It’s a common issue that can affect anyone, and learning how to handle it properly is simple yet very important.
These are the 5 Best Methods on How to Unclog a Toilet – Just like the Pros.
Common Causes of Clogged Toilets
Before we dive into the tips, it’s essential to understand the common causes of a clogged toilet.
These are the most common causes of toilet clogs:
- Flushing too much toilet paper,
- Flushing non-degradable items like baby or personal wipes, and feminine hygiene products
- Flushing items like cotton balls and Q-tip swabs can get caught in the pipes.
It’s also important to remember that toilets can become clogged due to plumbing or sewer line issues. So, if you’re experiencing frequent clogs or toilet issues, it’s always a good idea to call a professional plumber.
The Best Tools to Use for Unclogging a Toilet
When unclogging a toilet, having the right tools is essential. These are the most important tools to have when you need to unblock your toilet:
- Toilet Plunger
- Toilet Drain Cleaner
- Auger (plumbing snake)
- Wet/Dry Vacuum
How to Unclog a Toilet: The 5 Best Methods
1) Use a a Toilet Plunger to Unclog a Toilet
A Toilet plunger is one of the most common and practical tools for unclogging a toilet. From experience, we recommend Mr. Siga’s combo toilet plunger and toilet brush.
However, other tools, such as a Drain Auger (plumbing snake below), can be just as effective.
The Best Way to Plunge a Toilet:
Knowing the proper technique is essential when using a plunger to unclog a toilet. First, make sure the plunger is completely submerged in water.
Next, use the plunger to create a tight seal around the toilet bowl. Then, push down and pull up on the plunger quickly and steadily but not too forcefully. Repeat this process several times until the clog is cleared.
Note: If 4-5 uses of the toilet plunger do not clear the obstruction, stop. Wait 5 minutes, then resume 4-5 plunges.
If you cannot clear the obstruction, use a Drain Cleaner overnight and try again.
How to Unclog a Toilet “Without a Plunger”:
If you don’t have a plunger on hand, don’t worry. There are still ways to unclog a toilet without one.
The best method to unclog a toilet without a plunger is to pour Toilet Drain Cleaner into the toilet bowl. This product is specifically designed to dissolve excess tissue paper and solid waste.
Another method is to use everyday household products such as hot water and dish soap. Pour hot water into the toilet bowl, followed by a few squirts of dish soap (we recommend Dawn Dish Soap).
Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes or longer, then flush the toilet.
A third method to unclog a toilet is to use a Wire Coat Hanger. Straighten out the hanger and use it to loosen and remove the clog.
Note: Be careful not to scratch the toilet bowl’s porcelain finish. To do this, secure a small piece of duct tape around the end you will fish into the toilet bowl.
2). Use a “Drain Auger” to Unclog a Toilet
A drain auger may be the solution if you have a stubborn clog that won’t clear with a plunger.
When using a manual auger, carefully insert the auger into the toilet bowl and turn the handle clockwise. Keep turning the handle until you feel too much resistance, then loosen the clog by turning the handle counterclockwise.
You’re trying to grind and loosen the obstruction, and continue this process until the clog is cleared.
An Auger is a long, flexible tool that can reach deep into the pipes to break up and remove clogs.
Professional plumbers use more expensive motorized snake augers like Populo, which include an electric motor and a 25′ auger snake, to reach long expanses of toilet drain lines.
Electric Augers cost under $100 – Watch the Populo Drain Auger Video.
If you would like a less expensive “Closet Auger,” a shorter manual 3′-0 Auger, such as those offered by Cobra, can also be efficient for minor clogs.
If you believe something solid has clogged the toilet (like a diaper), you will not be able to grind or clear the obstruction. Instead, try to grasp the obstruction with your hand or use a mechanical snake with a claw and pull it out.
3). Use A “Wet/Dry Vacuum” To Unclog a Toilet
While not our first choice, a wet/dry vacuum is another tool that can work in a pinch to remove stubborn toilet clogs.
Important: When using a wet/dry vacuum to remove water, first remove the paper HEPA filter from the inside of the waste container. It’s usually mounted to the motor.
Also, when using a wet vacuum to unclog a toilet, pay close attention to the motor’s sound. If the engine is straining, you will hear it and need to shut it off immediately.
A laboring wet vac means it isn’t strong enough to clear the obstruction in the toilet, or that an obstruction is clogging the vacuum hose.
4). Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for a Clogged Toilet:
Baking soda and vinegar can be a powerful combination for unclogging a toilet. Start by pouring a cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl. Next, add a cup of vinegar. The mixture will start to foam and bubble.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then flush the toilet. This method can be effective for mild to moderate clogs.
5). Use Safe Drain Cleaner (Liquid) For Clogs
When soap, hot water, vinegar, and baking soda don’t cut through your toilet clog, you can also buy safe and effective drain cleaners, such as Green Gobbler drain dissolver, which can dissolve hair, personal wipes, and other gunk in your toilet bowl.
The Green Gobbler brand is the drain cleaner I use and recommend to everyone.
“never use extreme force While using a plunger. If you do, you risk forcing toilet water past the wax ring of the toilet bowl and onto the bathroom floor.
Quick Tips: How to Prevent Toilet Clogs
Prevention is vital when it comes to toilet clogs. Some tips to prevent clogs include flushing only toilet paper and human waste, avoiding flushing non-degradable items, and reducing the amount of toilet paper used.
It’s also essential to clean the toilet regularly with toilet bowl cleaner to prevent buildup.
When to Call a Professional Plumber for Help with a Toilet Clog:
While many toilet clogs can be cleared with DIY methods, sometimes it’s best to call a professional plumber.
If you’re sure your household isn’t flushing the wrong materials down your toilets and you are experiencing frequent clogs, the issue may be with the plumbing system or the sewer line.
A professional plumber can diagnose and fix the issue quickly and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Fastest Way to Unclog a Toilet?
The fastest way to unclog a toilet is to use a Toilet Plunger. Toilet plungers are handy and practical, often kept near a bathroom.
Is Drain Cleaner Safe to Use in Toilets?
Some drain cleaners, such as Green Gobbler and Flow-Zymer, are considered safe for use in toilets and sewer pipes. They are Eco-Friendly and Enzyme-based.
However, harsh drain cleaners can destroy PVC plumbing in toilets, which is very costly to replace.
What Types of Materials Clog Toilets?
Too much toilet paper is the most common cause of toilet clogging. Next, and perhaps more serious, is flushing personal wipes or baby wipes, or feminine products, down a toilet.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, unclogging a toilet can be a frustrating (or disgusting) experience, but it can also be a simple process with the right tools and knowledge.
Fixing a toilet yourself can also be rewarding. Plumbers typically charge between $150 and $200 in labor to unclog a toilet.
Remember to learn about the common causes of clogged toilets, use the right tools for the job, and practice prevention to avoid future clogs. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber for help :)
References & Additional Resources
- Basics of Choosing a Good Shop Vac
- How to Remove Hard Water Stains From Your Toilet
- How To Remove a Dishwasher (Before the New One Arrives) – BestHomeGear.com
- How To Replace a Lavatory Faucet
- Toilet Repair Made Easy – Besthomegear.com
- How to Clean Carpet with a Wet-Dry Vac
