How To Unblock A Toilet?

A Step-by-Step Guide to Clearing Your Blocked Toilet

Is there anything worse than a blocked toilet? This common household issue can be messy and stressful, but thankfully, it’s also often manageable with a few easy steps. Whether you’re dealing with a minor clog or your toilet keeps blocking frequently, this guide will walk you through proven methods to unblock a toilet safely, using everyday tools or more specialised solutions.

Why Is My Toilet Blocked?

Blocked toilets happen for several reasons, but here are the most common culprits:

Excessive toilet paper: Toilet paper can sometimes build up, especially if used in large amounts.
Flushing non-flushable items: Items like wipes, feminine products, or other non-biodegradable materials can clog your toilet drain.
Plumbing issues: In some cases, underlying plumbing issues can cause a toilet to clog frequently.

Now that you understand the basics, let’s dive into the steps to unblock a toilet.

Quick Fixes for an Unblocked Toilet

Before reaching for specialised toilet unblockers, try these simple steps. These methods work for light to moderate blockages, and they often involve common household items.

1. Use Hot Water and Dish Soap

This approach is gentle, effective, and perfect for soft blockages.

Pour a few squirts of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
Boil a pot of water, but let it cool slightly before pouring it into the toilet. Very hot water can damage the toilet bowl if it’s porcelain.
Pour the hot water into the bowl and wait 10-15 minutes.
Try flushing the toilet. If it remains blocked, repeat the process or move on to other methods.

Using hot water and dish soap can work wonders as a toilet unblocker for soft clogs.

2. Try Using a Plunger

A plunger is a household staple and is often all you need to unblock a toilet drain effectively.

Ensure the plunger has a rubber flange—this allows for better suction when working on a toilet.
Place the plunger over the toilet drain, ensuring a tight seal.
Push down gently at first, then pump vigorously for 10-15 seconds. This action creates pressure that can dislodge the blockage.
If your toilet drain remains blocked, continue plunging for a few more rounds before trying other solutions.

Using a plunger is one of the most effective ways to clear a toilet drain and works for many types of clogs.

3. Use a Toilet Auger (or Plumbing Snake)

A toilet auger, also known as a plumbing snake, is a tool specifically designed to clear tough clogs in the toilet drain.

Insert the toilet auger into the bowl, guiding it down the drainpipe.
Rotate the auger handle to maneuver the head through the blockage. This can break up or latch onto the clog, allowing you to pull it out or push it through.
Once you feel resistance decrease, remove the auger and flush to see if the toilet drain is clear.

A toilet auger is one of the best tools if you frequently find yourself saying, “My toilet is blocked again!”

4. Try a Homemade Toilet Unblocker Solution: Baking Soda and Vinegar

This natural, chemical-free method is highly effective for mild to moderate clogs.

Pour one cup of baking soda directly into the toilet bowl.
Follow with two cups of vinegar. The reaction will create fizzing, which can help dissolve minor clogs.
Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then pour hot (but not boiling) water into the bowl and wait another few minutes.
Attempt to flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared.

This solution is especially helpful for organic blockages that don’t require heavy-duty tools or chemical toilet unblockers.

5. Chemical Toilet Unblockers: Use with Caution

If all else fails, chemical toilet unblockers are available in most hardware stores. However, exercise caution, as these products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to pipes, skin, and the environment.

Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before use.
Pour the recommended amount of the toilet unblocker into the toilet and let it sit for the suggested time (usually 15-30 minutes).
Flush the toilet and see if it is now clear.

Use chemical toilet unblockers as a last resort, and avoid combining them with other products (like bleach or vinegar), as this can create dangerous fumes.

Why Does My Toilet Keep Blocking?

If you find that your toilet drain keeps getting blocked, consider these possible underlying causes:

1. Frequent Use of Non-Flushable Items

Using excessive amounts of toilet paper or flushing other items can lead to recurrent clogs. Educate household members on what can and cannot go down the toilet.

2. Plumbing Vent Issues

A plumbing vent helps regulate the air pressure in your plumbing system. If this is blocked or damaged, it can lead to slow draining and blockages.

3. Old or Narrow Pipes

Older plumbing systems may have narrow pipes that are more prone to blockages. In such cases, you may need a plumber to assess and recommend potential upgrades.

Tips for Preventing a Blocked Toilet in the Future

When to Call a Plumber

If you’ve tried these solutions and your toilet is still blocked, it may be time to call a professional plumber. Persistent blockages can indicate a deeper issue, such as a problem with the sewer line or significant buildup in the pipes. A plumber will be able to use specialised tools to locate and clear any blockages that are too severe for DIY methods. Contact us now!

Say Goodbye to a Blocked Toilet

A blocked toilet is an inconvenience, but with the right steps, you can often clear it yourself without needing a professional. Remember to be patient, and don’t be afraid to try multiple methods if one doesn’t work immediately. By following the steps outlined here, you can feel confident in your ability to unblock a toilet, tackle clogged toilet drains, and even prevent future blockages.

Whether you’re dealing with a mild clog or facing a blocked toilet drain that won’t budge, these methods are proven to help. By arming yourself with some basic tools and a bit of knowledge, you’ll be able to handle most toilet blockages that come your way. Happy unblocking!