How to Unclog a Toilet: 4 Ways
Here are a few methods you can try to unclog your toilet:
1. Plunging:
Ensure proper seal: Make sure the plunger flange fits snugly over the drain hole.
Create suction: Push the plunger down firmly to create suction.
Plunge vigorously: Pump the plunger up and down vigorously.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar:
Pour baking soda: Add a cup of baking soda to the toilet bowl.
Add vinegar: Slowly pour in two cups of white vinegar.
Wait: Allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
Flush: Flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared.
3. Toilet Auger (Snake):
Insert auger: Carefully insert the auger into the drain hole.
Rotate and push: Rotate the auger while pushing it into the drain to break up the clog.
Retrieve clog: Once you feel resistance, pull the auger back to retrieve the clog.
4. Hot Water:
Pour hot water: Pour several gallons of very hot water into the toilet bowl.
Wait: Allow the hot water to sit for a few minutes.
Flush: Flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared.
Important Note: If you're unable to unclog the toilet yourself, or if the problem persists, it's best to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to handle stubborn clogs.
Avoid using:
Chemical drain cleaners: These can damage your pipes and create more problems.
Too much toilet paper: Avoid flushing excessive amounts of toilet paper, as it can contribute to clogs.
how to unclog toilet with dish soap Step by step
What You'll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Measuring cup
- Toilet brush
- Bucket with pour spout
Materials
- Liquid dish soap
- Hot water from a tap
How to Unclog a Toilet With Dish Soap
1, Fill a Measuring Cup
Fill a 1-cup or larger kitchen measuring cup with 1/2- to 1-cup of liquid dish soap.
2, Clear Obstructions
At the toilet, use the toilet brush to push aside toilet paper and other items floating in the towel bowl. It's best to have a clear section in the center, directly above the toilet drain.
3, Pour the Dish Soap Into the Bowl
Pour the dish soap into the water in the toilet bowl. Hold the container close to the water and pour the soap in a steady stream.
4, Wait
Wait for about 30 minutes. The dish soap sinks rapidly, but it needs sufficient time to loosen the obstruction.
5, Flush the Toilet
Flush the toilet if the toilet bowl water has not already flushed itself away. If flushing does not work, add hot water.
6, Prepare the Hot Water
Turn on the hot water at the kitchen tap and wait until it becomes as hot as possible. Fill the bucket with about 1 gallon of hot water. Take the bucket to the bathroom.
Warning
Only use hot tap water, which typically does not exceed 120°F.3 Do not use boiling water (212°F or hotter) as this can crack the porcelain toilet or melt the wax toilet seal ring.
7, Pour the Hot Water
Pour the hot water from the bucket into the toilet bowl. Pour the hot water into a steady stream from about 1 foot above the toilet rim.
8, Flush the Toilet
Let the hot water sit in the toilet for about five minutes. Flush the toilet once or twice. If this does not work, plunge the toilet, use a toilet auger, or have an emergency plumber unclog the toilet.
