How to unclog a toilet fast
Having a blocked toilet is a nuisance that you shouldn’t have to deal with, particularly when you want it fixed quickly. Luckily, there are some things you can do to clear the obstruction quickly without calling a plumber. We will learn some methods, devices and preventive measures for unclogging a toilet right here in this post.
How to Fix a Clogged Toilet Causes
When you’re trying to flush your toilet, it’s always good to first figure out what’s clogging it up. Common culprits include:
Over-using the toilet paper: Using too much toilet paper in one go, causes a blockage.
Foreign objects: Items like toys, wipes or feminine care products flushed down the toilet are likely to clog up the toilet.
Pipe accumulation: Over time, mineral deposits, grease, or debris build up in the pipes and slow the flow.
Fat flush mechanism: A toilet that is older or low flow might not be powerful enough to push a waste through the pipes.
Key Pieces to Keep Close at Hand
Having the right tools to clean a toilet fast is critical. These include:
Toilet Plunger: To fit a toilet, we suggest a flange or accordion plunger.
Toilet auger: Adaptive snake-like tool for the toilet.
Baking soda and vinegar: A great home remedy for the occasional blockage.
Hot water: Quick and easy to dislodge foam blocks.
Rubber gloves: Protect your hands from germs.
— Bucket and towels: To deal with spills or overflows.
How to Remove Clog from Toilet Step by Step Guide.
Method | Best For | Required Tools | Effectiveness | Time Required |
---|---|---|---|---|
Plunger | General clogs | Plunger | Very Effective | 5–10 minutes |
Hot Water and Dish Soap | Soft blockages | Hot water, dish soap | Moderately Effective | 10–20 minutes |
Baking Soda and Vinegar | Minor clogs | Baking soda, vinegar, hot water | Moderately Effective | 15–25 minutes |
Toilet Auger | Stubborn clogs | Toilet auger | Highly Effective | 10–15 minutes |
Wet/Dry Vacuum | Severe blockages | Wet/dry vacuum, towel | Very Effective | 15–30 minutes |
Enzyme Cleaners | Organic waste clogs | Enzyme cleaner | Effective (long-term) | Several hours |
1. Use a Plunger
A plunger is usually the fastest and easiest way to unclog a toilet. Follow these steps:
Remove the rubber gloves so that your hands are free.
Overflow the plunger in the drain hole of the toilet until it seals properly.
Press down a little first, then pump hard for 20–30 seconds.
Lift the plunger and see if the water drains. Repeat as needed.
Tipp: If the plunger isn’t squeezing tight, pour water into the bowl so that you can drown the rubber end.
2. Dish Washer Hot Water and Dishwashing Soap.
(If you don’t have a plunger, hot water and dish soap should dislodge the clog.
Fill the toilet bowl with a lot of dish soap.
Boil a bucket of water just below boiling point.
Scoop the hot water into the toilet bowl slowly so it doesn’t overflow.
Allow 10–15 minutes for soap and water to clean the blockage.
Toss the toilet to check if the clog has disappeared.
3. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
It is an organic solution for minor clogs and free from harsh chemicals.
Put 1 cup baking soda in the toilet bowl.
Pour in one cup of vinegar and let it fizz for 5–10 minutes.
Pour boiling water in the bowl to break up the blockage.
10 more minutes, flush the toilet.
4. Try a Toilet Auger
With a toilet auger (plumber snake), you can drill into the pipe to dislodge clogs.
Insert the end of the auger into the toilet drain.
Clockwise turn the handle to pull the auger through the blockage.
Once you have an obstacle, keep turning to break the clog.
Get the auger out of the box and flush the toilet.
5. Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum
But if everything else won’t cut it, the wet/dry vacuum can work wonders.
Vacuum as much of the bowl water as possible out of it.
Pull a towel around the vacuum hose to seal it.
Plug the hose into the drain and switch on the vacuum to flush the blockage.
Look at the vacuum canister for debris and do so again if necessary.
6. Enzyme-Based Cleaners
Enzyme drain cleaners work well for clogs from organic matter.
Place the cleaner on the toilet as directed on the packaging.
Let it sit for several hours or over night.
Dump the toilet to see if the blockage has disappeared.
Prevention for Future Clogs: Preventive Tips For Ahead of Time.
The key is to avoid clogs rather than solve them. Follow these tips:
Reuse less toilet paper: Reflux in smaller quantities if you have to.
Don’t flush items that can’t be flushed: Don’t flush wipes, diapers, or sanitary towels.
Proper cleaning: Scrub your toilet and pipes once in a while to eliminate buildup.
Teach the household members: Explain to everyone what flushes and doesn’t.
When to Call a Plumber
If you have done all of the above but the clog remains, you need to get professional help. : Signs that you need a plumber are:
Water overflowing from the toilet.
A lot of clogs, even after I unclog them.
Pseudo-cries or smells in the pipes.
Potty or sewer damage possible.