Toilet clogs are always inconvenient because they essentially make it impossible to use one of the most important fixtures in your home until the clog is gone. You want to unclog a toilet without causing it damage, obviously, so what is a person to do? Below, we’ll tell you 5 ways that you can beat a toilet clog without potentially damaging this vital plumbing fixture.
It Can Be Easy to Unclog a Toilet
There are a lot of methods that you can use to unclog your toilet. Whatever method that works for you will depend on the shape of your toilet’s plumbing and the nature of the clog. With the information below, you might be able to put an end to bothersome toilet clogs!
1. Plunger
The plunger is the tried and true way to unclog a toilet. Every household has one for this reason. A plunger with a flange is ideal for toilets, whereas flat plungers are best for showers and sinks. Not only are these items incredibly accessible, but they are also easy to use!
Simply put the plunger into the bowl of the toilet, over the hole, and push down to create a seal and get rid of air. Then, without breaking the seal, plunge repeatedly. Remove the plunger to break the seal. You may have to do this several times before seeing success.
2. Toilet Snake/Auger
Ordinary plumbing snakes can damage porcelain, so you don’t want to use those on your toilet. Invest in a toilet snake, otherwise known as an auger, instead. Use one of these if plunging hasn’t been successful at unclogging the toilet. These sturdy tools are nearly as simple as using a plunger.
Insert the head of the auger into the toilet and turn the handle clockwise. Eventually, you will feel the clog resisting the auger head. When you feel the resistance, wind the handle in the opposite direction. If the clog has come loose, the toilet will flush. If it hasn’t, you should try again until the clog loosens.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar
These two, natural household ingredients are well known for pairing together to make an excellent cleanser. Baking soda and vinegar also make for a great alternative to harsh, commercial drain cleaners. All you have to do is pour one cup of baking soda into the clogged toilet and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, gradually add in two cups of vinegar. Give the mixture several minutes to process and then flush the toilet. The clog should have cleared.
4. Dish Soap and Hot Water
Everyone has these things around the house! Squirt a small amount of dish soap into the toilet while you have water just under boiling on the stovetop. Do not use boiling water! This could crack the toilet! Once the water is heated to just under boiling, slowly pour it into the toilet bowl. Let the concoction work for a couple of minutes before flushing. You should be clog-free!
5. Call a Professional Plumber
Plumbers make their jobs look easy because they have the tools and the expertise to get the job done right. So, when you have a stubborn clog that won’t come lose no matter what you do, or you have a toilet that clogs far too often, calling in the experts is the best move. A professional plumber can unclog a toilet easily and quickly, in addition to identifying the cause.