Flush Away the Problem: DIY Toilet Fixes & When to Call a Plumber!

By Wilma Haskins · Feb 21, 2025

Dealing with a clogged toilet can be an incredibly frustrating experience for any homeowner. The sudden panic of seeing water rising in the bowl and not flushing away can make you wonder how to unclog a toilet effectively. Fortunately, there are several methods to resolve this common household issue. From understanding the best toilet plungers to exploring home remedies for a clogged toilet, this guide covers it all. Additionally, knowing when to call a plumber for a clogged toilet can save you from potential water damage and further complications.

How to Unclog a Toilet

Understanding how to unclog a toilet is essential for every homeowner. Here are some effective techniques you can use:

1. Plunger Method

Using a plunger is the most common and usually the first step in unclogging a toilet.

Steps:

1. Choose the Right Plunger: Opt for a flange plunger, as it creates a better seal.

2. Position the Plunger: Place the plunger over the toilet hole, ensuring a tight seal.

3. Pump Vigorously: Push down and pull up rapidly while maintaining the seal.

4. Flush the Toilet: If the water drains, flush to ensure the clog is fully cleared.

2. Toilet Auger (Plumbing Snake)

A toilet auger can reach deeper clogs that a plunger can't resolve.

Steps:

1. Insert the Auger: Feed the auger into the toilet drain.

2. Turn the Handle: Twist the handle to break up the clog.

3. Retrieve the Auger: Pull the auger out and test the toilet with a flush.

3. Hot Water and Dish Soap

This method can help break down clogs caused by organic material and grease.

Steps:

1. Add Soap: Pour a generous amount of dish soap into the toilet bowl.

2. Pour Hot Water: Carefully pour hot (not boiling) water into the bowl.

3. Wait and Flush: Wait several minutes and then flush.

4. Baking Soda and Vinegar

A natural and non-toxic method for unclogging toilets.

Steps:

1. Add Baking Soda: Pour one cup of baking soda into the toilet.

2. Add Vinegar: Pour one cup of vinegar into the toilet.

3. Let it Sit: Allow the mixture to sit and fizz for 30 minutes.

4. Flush with Hot Water: Pour hot water into the bowl and flush.

Best Toilet Plungers

Choosing the right plunger can make a significant difference in effectively unclogging a toilet. Here are some of the best toilet plungers recommended by experts:

1. Flange Plunger

A flange plunger has an extended rubber flap (flange) at the bottom, creating a better seal specifically for toilet drains.

Features:

• Better suction

• Effective for deep clogs

• Easy to use

2. Accordion Plunger

An accordion plunger has a unique ribbed design, providing strong pressure suitable for severe clogs.

Features:

• High-pressure capability

• Durable and long-lasting

• Takes more effort to use

3. Bellows Plunger

The bellows plunger combines features of both flange and accordion plungers, offering versatility and strong suction.

Features:

• Versatile for various drains

• Higher pressure output

• Requires learning curve

4. Classic Cup Plunger

A traditional cup plunger is versatile but less effective on toilets compared to flange plungers.

Features:

• Simple design

• Suitable for sinks and bathtubs

• Less effective on toilets

Home Remedies for Clogged Toilet

If you're looking for simple and immediate solutions, home remedies for a clogged toilet can be surprisingly effective:

1. Dish Soap and Hot Water

Dish soap combined with hot water can break down some types of clogs.

Steps:

1. Pour Dish Soap: Add dish soap to the toilet.

2. Add Hot Water: Pour hot (not boiling) water to help dissolve the clog.

3. Wait and Flush: Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

A natural alternative that can work wonders on minor clogs.

Steps:

1. Baking Soda First: Add a cup of baking soda.

2. Follow with Vinegar: Pour a cup of vinegar and allow it to fizz.

3. Flush with Hot Water: After 30 minutes, flush with hot water.

3. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt can create fizzing action similar to commercial drain cleaners.

Steps:

1. Pour Epsom Salt: Add a generous amount of Epsom salt to the toilet.

2. Wait and Observe: Let it sit and react with the water.

3. Flush: After several minutes, flush the toilet.

4. Wet/Dry Vacuum

A wet/dry vacuum can be used to suck out the clog if other methods fail.

Steps:

1. Set to Wet Mode: Ensure the vacuum is set to wet mode.

2. Create a Seal: Wrap the vacuum hose with a rag to create a tight seal.

3. Suck Out the Clog: Turn on the vacuum to remove the blockage.

Plumber for Clogged Toilet

While DIY methods can effectively handle many clogs, some situations require professional intervention. Here's when to call a plumber:

When to Call a Plumber

• Persistent Clogs: If DIY methods fail, a plumber can diagnose and fix the problem.

• Frequent Blockages: Regular clogs might indicate a deeper issue in the plumbing system.

• No Improvement: If water levels don't return to normal, you need professional help.

• Unusual Sounds or Leaks: Gurgling sounds or leaks require immediate professional attention.

What to Expect

When you call a professional plumber:

1. Assessment: The plumber will assess the situation.

2. Specialized Tools: Use specialized tools like professional-grade snakes and hydro-jetting equipment.

3. Expertise: Identify underlying issues causing the repetitive clogs.

4. Lasting Fixes: Provide long-term solutions to prevent future blockages.

Conclusion

A clogged toilet is an inconvenient but common issue that every homeowner faces at some point. Knowing how to unclog a toilet using various methods can save you from unnecessary stress. From choosing the best toilet plungers to trying effective home remedies for a clogged toilet, you now have several tools in your arsenal. However, for persistent or complex issues, don't hesitate to call a plumber.

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