How to Unclog Your Toilet
The dreaded clogged toilet! The clogged toilet situation is any homeowner’s worst nightmare when it comes to their plumbing. Unfortunately, if your bathroom is in regular use, a clogged toilet is bound to happen. Learning how to quickly and effectively unclog a toilet is a gamechanger and is easier than you might think.
We’ll walk you through which tools you need for the job, tips on avoiding a clogged toilet, how to actually unclog, and when to call the pros.
Never fear – the next time you experience a clogged toilet, you’ll know just what to do.
The Plumbing Tools for the Job
You should have these plumbing tools handy to deal with any plumbing situation. Specifically, for a clogged toilet, you need a plunger and a plumbing snake. Ideally, you should have a plunger handy next to every toilet in your home.
What to Never Flush Down a Toilet
The only items you should ever flush down a toilet is human waste and toilet paper. Even if a product is labeled as flushable, don’t do it. Your household plumbing is designed to flush away your human waste and toilet paper. If you flush anything else, you’re risking a clog.
Never flush the following items:
- Feminine products
- Disposable wipes
- Paper towel
- Floss
- Diapers
- Any food items
We had to help unclog and fish out a number of the above-listed items. We’ve also seen toys, clothes, and food debris. When it doubt, throw it out!
How to Unclog a Toilet
The key to unclogging a toilet is patience and perseverance. Follow these steps to unclog your toilet safely and effectively.
- Grab your plunger and gently plunge it down into the toilet.
- Cover the toilet drain with the plunger to create a seal.
- Now that you have a seal, use pressure up and down to create suction.
- Finally, release the plunger to break the seal.
- Repeat these steps until you see water rush down the drain.
If the plunger method just isn’t working, you can try using a toilet plumbing snake. Gently ease this tool into the toilet until it’s stopped and gently try to pull out the clog. If this doesn’t work, you may want to call for a plumber due to the nature of the clog.
When to Call a Plumber for a Clogged Toilet
When do you need to call a professional for help? Most of the time, you should be able to successfully unclog a toilet on your own using the steps above. However, if there’s something other than human waste or it’s just a tricky clog, it’s better to call the pros who can unclog your toilet safely and quickly without causing any damage or drama.
Your Helpful Plumber
Still unsure? Need professional help? Contact your local plumber. One Hour Rooter is your trusted plumber in the Twin Cities Metro area. Call us at 612-354-8984 if you need help with any plumbing.
