What Are the Best Ways to Unclog a Toilet?

Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a professional plumbing company offering a comprehensive range of plumbing services, including toilet repair and toilet replacement. If your toilet is in disrepair and you’re looking for a top-rated plumbing repair service to perform an inspection and advise you on the way forward, reach out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Here are the best ways to unclog a toilet:

• Use a Flange Plunger

This tool is often the first line of defense against a clogged toilet. Its wide, flexible flange creates a tight seal around the toilet bowl, allowing you to build up powerful pressure with each plunge. Remember to plunge vigorously and consistently, focusing on pushing the water down the drain, not just splashing around.

• Baking Soda Mixture

This fizzy combination is a natural cleaning solution that can break down mild clogs caused by soap scum and hair. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the bowl, followed by 2 cups of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble as it works its magic. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then flush to see if the clog is gone.

• Use a Plastic Bottle to Create Water Pressure

This DIY method uses the force of water pressure to dislodge the clog. Fill a large plastic bottle with hot water and leave about an inch of air space at the top. Place your thumb over the opening and plunge the bottle into the toilet bowl, squeezing forcefully to release the water. Repeat a few times to see if the clog budges.

• Swish in Some Dish Soap

Dish soap acts as a lubricant and can help slide a clog through the pipes. This is how you can use dish soap to clear a toilet clog:

Step 1: Squirt a generous amount of dish soap into the bowl, about ½ cup.

Step 2: Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Add hot water and plunge vigorously.

• Try a Toilet Auger

A toilet auger is a specialized tool designed specifically for unclogging toilets. It has a long, flexible cable with a corkscrew-like tip that can break up even the most stubborn clogs. Here’s how you can use a toilet auger to unclog a toilet drain:

Step 1: Feed the cable end of the auger into the drain opening slowly and carefully. You may feel resistance at the P-trap, the curved pipe beneath the drain.

Step 2: Rotate the handle of the auger to advance the auger head and break up the clog. The auger head may have different shapes, like a corkscrew or a claw, depending on the type of auger you have.