A clogged toilet can quickly turn into a major inconvenience, but fear not– tackling this issue is simpler than you might think. This step-by-step guide will explain how to effectively unclog a blocked toilet using common household tools and techniques. From simple plunging methods to DIY mixtures and preventive measures, you’ll learn practical strategies to restore your toilet’s functionality swiftly and in a hassle-free manner.
See also: Toilet cleaning tips to keep your bathroom spic and span
Ways to unblock a clogged toilet
If you decide first to try and unclog the toilet yourself, don’t forget to wear protective gear. These steps will help you maintain a smoothly functioning toilet and prevent any major damages or emergencies in the future.
Use a plunger
Source: Pinterest (bfplumbingbayarea.com)
Step 1: Using a plunger is one of the most effective ways to remove debris from a clogged toilet. Invest in a plunger that is made specifically for your toilet, and make sure that it is dirt and debris free whenever you use it to clean your clogged toilet.
Step 2: Make a seal by placing the plunger directly over the toilet drain and gently push it down, making sure it covers the entire drain and forms a tight closure over it.
Step 3: The first plunge should be gentle and slow, making sure that the grip is tight and there’s no air trapped in between. Then start plunging with a greater force, moving the plunger up and down and gradually increase your speed. Build pressure by increasing both the force and the speed with which you plunge.
Step 4: After you’ve done that a few times, check whether the water levels have dropped and try to flush in order to check whether you’ve been successful or not. You might also hear a gurgling sound as the clogged water flushes down the drain while plunging.
Hot water and dish soap method
Step 1: Another famous method to unclog a toilet is by using hot water and dish soap. The first step would be to fill a kettle and boil water in it. Handle hot water with caution. Wear gloves if needed and maintain a safe distance always.
Step 2: Carefully fill the toilet bowl with dish soap and then pour hot water from a considerable height. Make sure the water doesn’t splash on you. The soap and water both help in softening clogged substances.
Step 3: Let the soap and water solution do its job for a few minutes, and then flush everything. Now you have an unclogged toilet!
Source: Pinterest (Family Handyman)
Use vinegar with baking soda
Step 1: Add almost a cup of baking soda to the toilet bowl.
Step 2: Add about two cups of vinegar to the toilet bowl. The solution of baking soda and vinegar will help in removing any obstructions in your clogged toilet.
Step 3: Let the solution do its job for about 30 minutes, and then flush to see whether the drainage system has improved. You can repeat the process a few times to achieve the best results.
Snake or toilet auger method
Step 1: Carefully try to insert the toilet snake or auger into the toilet bowl and then the drainage.
Step 2: Now that the auger is inside the drain, gently rotate it in a clockwise as well as an anti-clockwise motion to help remove the clogged substances. Since the auger has a flexible wire, it can reach deep down the drain and clean it thoroughly.
Step 3: Remove the clog by moving the auger in and out of the drain. If you feel that you’ve successfully unclogged the toilet, flush it once to see the results. Repeat the process if needed.
Toilet brush and warm water
Step 1: Take a bucket half full of warm water.
Step 2: Take a toilet brush with a long handle and do the same steps that you have to do with the auger. Move it in and out of the drain to remove the clog.
Step 3: Now pour the warm water filling the entire toilet and see if the water level has gone down. Repeat the process if needed.
FAQs
When should I call for professional help if my toilet is clogged?
First, try unclogging it yourself, and if you aren’t successful, then call a plumber.
Are there any chemical-free methods to unclog my toilet?
Yes, you can use baking soda and vinegar solution as it helps in dissolving the clog and easily unclogging the toilet.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unclog my toilet?
Yes, you can use chemical drain cleaners, but they’re known to cause damage to the toilet drainage in the long term.
How do I prevent my toilet from getting clogged?
Avoid flushing tissues, toilet paper, baby wipes or sanitary products down the drain.
While using the dish soap and hot water method, should I use boiling water?
No, boiling water may damage the toilet bowl. Always use hot water but not boiling water.
Is there an alternative to dish soap?
Yes, you can either use shampoo or liquid hand wash to unclog your toilet.
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