Toilets never clog at a convenient time. If you’re in a rush or don’t want to mess with calling a professional for help, rest assured that most toilet clogs are relatively easy to clear. You simply need the right tools and techniques to unclog a toilet without a plumber. Follow these pro tips to get the job done.
Unclog a Toilet Using a Plunger
The traditional method is to plunge the toilet until the clog clears. Here’s how:
- Select a flange plunger, the type with a rubber flap on the end to help create a tight seal with the toilet drain.
- Scoop out some of the water into a bucket if the toilet bowl is filled to the brim. This way, you can plunge without making a mess.
- Position the plunger to form a tight seal around the drain opening. Then, firmly plunge it up and down several times.
- Lift the plunger away to break the seal. Water should rush down the drain. If this doesn’t happen, continue plunging.
- Once the water level drops, flush to see if you have fully cleared the clog.
Other Ways to Unclog a Toilet
If you don’t have a plunger, you could call a plumber for help. But first, try these alternative methods to unclog a toilet:
- Baking soda and vinegar: Pour one cup of baking soda into the clogged toilet, followed by a solution of three cups boiling water and two cups white vinegar. Let the ingredients bubble and fizz for 20 to 30 minutes before attempting to flush.
- Hot water and soap: Scoop some water out of the toilet bowl. Then, squeeze about one-half cup of dish soap or shampoo into the toilet to lubricate the clogged drain. Next, slowly pour one gallon of hot (not boiling) water into the bowl. Wait 10 to 20 minutes for the soap and hot water to soften the clog. Hopefully, the toilet will flush now.
- Drain snake: You can find this tool, also known as a plumbing auger, in your local hardware store. Feed the metal cable down the toilet until it hits an obstruction. Then, work the cable back and forth to dislodge the blockage. Coil the snake back up and try flushing.
- Coat hanger: You can fashion a makeshift drain snake by straightening a metal coat hanger. Make a hook at one end and duct tape cloth over it to avoid scratching the toilet. Then, insert the hanger into the drain, pushing and twisting to dislodge the obstruction. Pull the hanger out and flush the toilet to test your work.
If your attempts to unclog the toilet without a plumber prove unsuccessful, Puget Sound Plumbing and Heating is here to help. Our toilet repair services include unclogging drain pipes, fixing leaks, and much more. Our family-owned and operated company has been serving homes and businesses in the Seattle area for over 20 years. Call us at (206) 938-3219 or contact us online to request a visit from one of our qualified plumbers.