How to Unblock a Toilet

Understanding the Common Causes of Toilet Blockages

Toilet blockages occur due to a variety of reasons, ranging from improper use to plumbing system issues. Understanding these causes is crucial to identifying and preventing the problem.

• Excessive Toilet Paper: Large amounts of toilet paper can accumulate and fail to break down, creating blockages. This is particularly common with thicker or non-dissolvable paper.
• Foreign Objects: Items such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, diapers, or small toys can obstruct the flow in pipes. These materials do not disintegrate like toilet paper and should never be flushed.
• Build-Up of Waste: Over time, waste and toilet paper residues can collect in pipes, particularly if water flow is insufficient. Slow draining or partial flushing can exacerbate this issue.
• Hard Water Deposits: Mineral deposits from hard water can narrow pipe diameters, making clogs more likely. This is often a gradual process that worsens over time.
• Structural Issues: Plumbing systems with improper installation, sagging pipes, or corroded connections can reduce efficiency and exacerbate blockages.

Identifying the specific cause helps in effectively addressing and preventing recurring problems. Choosing toilets that are designed to prevent clogging, such as rimless toilets or bidet toilets, can also reduce these risks significantly.

Safety Precautions Before Attempting to Unblock a Toilet

Before tackling a blocked toilet, it is essential to take proper safety precautions to avoid health risks or further complications.

• Wear Protective Gear: Use rubber gloves to prevent contact with bacteria and harmful substances. Consider wearing safety goggles if splashes are likely.
• Ventilate the Area: Open a window or turn on an extractor fan to limit exposure to unpleasant odours and harmful gases.
• Have Cleaning Supplies Ready: Keep disinfectant, paper towels, and cleaning wipes handy to sanitise surfaces afterwards.
• Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals: Combine chemicals cautiously to prevent dangerous reactions.
• Ensure Tools Are Suitable: Use only appropriate unclogging tools, such as a plunger or plumber’s snake.

Tools You’ll Need: Essential Items for the Job

To unblock a toilet effectively, having the right tools is crucial. Ensure these items are readily available:

• Plunger: Opt for a flange plunger, which is specifically designed for toilets and provides better suction.
• Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands from germs and potential splashes using durable, waterproof gloves.
• Bucket: Useful for removing excess water if the toilet bowl is overly full.
• Drain Snake (Plumbing Auger): A flexible tool designed to reach and dislodge blockages further down the pipe.
• Cleaning Supplies: Disinfectants and a toilet brush are necessary for cleaning after the job is done.
• Old Towels: Place around the base of the toilet to catch any water spills.

Having these tools ensures you’re prepared for the task. If you're often on the move, exploring options like portable toilets or camping toilets may be practical solutions for easier maintenance and mobility.

Using a Plunger: The Classic Method Explained

Start by selecting a flange plunger, as its extended rubber cup provides a better seal for toilet drains. Ensure there is enough water in the bowl to submerge the plunger head; if not, add water carefully until covered. Place the plunger over the drain, pressing down gently to create a seal. Begin with a slow push to expel air, then pump vigorously, keeping the seal intact. After several pumps, quickly pull up to break the seal, creating suction force to dislodge the blockage. Repeat the process if necessary until water drains properly. Always sanitise tools and hands after use.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Toilet Auger

Using a toilet auger is an effective method to clear blockages. Follow these steps to ensure proper use:

1. Position the Auger Insert the flexible end of the toilet auger into the toilet bowl, aiming it towards the drain opening.

2. Extend the Cable Turn the handle to start feeding the cable into the drain. Keep rotating smoothly to push it further into the pipe.

3. Break the Blockage Continue turning the handle while applying light pressure until the blockage is reached. Rotate the auger to either dislodge or break up the obstruction.

4. Retract the Auger Pull the cable back carefully, ensuring the blockage is removed. Flush the toilet to test for normal flow.

5. Clean the Auger After use, clean the auger thoroughly with disinfectant to prevent hygiene issues. Store it properly for future use.

Trying Dish Soap and Hot Water: A Simple DIY Solution

Using dish soap and hot water can often be an effective way to tackle a blocked toilet without the need for specialised tools. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Add a generous amount of dish soap: Pour about half a cup of liquid dish soap directly into the toilet bowl. The soap helps to lubricate the clogged material, making it easier to dislodge.

2. Heat water to the right temperature: Warm a bucket of water, but ensure it is not boiling. Extremely hot water can crack a porcelain toilet bowl.

3. Carefully pour the hot water: Slowly pour the warm water into the toilet. Aim for steady pouring to avoid splashing and to help the soap mix with the blockage efficiently.

4. Wait and observe: Allow the mixture to sit for 20-30 minutes. This waiting period lets the soap and water soften and break down the clog.

5. Test the flush: After waiting, flush the toilet to see if the blockage clears. Repeat the process if necessary.

This method works best for minor blockages. If unsuccessful, additional approaches may be required.

The Baking Soda and Vinegar Approach: Eco-Friendly Unblocking

The combination of baking soda and vinegar offers a chemical reaction that can effectively loosen clogs while being gentle on the environment. At During Days, we recommend this  method works best for blockages caused by organic materials or mild obstructions. Begin by pouring one cup of baking soda directly into the toilet bowl. Allow it to settle briefly, ensuring it reaches the blockage.

Next, slowly add about two cups of vinegar to the bowl. The reaction will produce fizzing and bubbling, helping to break down the clog. Wait around 30 minutes before flushing. For stubborn clogs, repeat the process or combine it with plunging for added effectiveness.

Using a Wet-Dry Vacuum: An Advanced Technique

A wet-dry vacuum can be an effective tool for unblocking a toilet, especially when traditional methods fail. Before starting, ensure the vacuum is suitable for wet conditions and that the toilet bowl is emptied of excess water.

Steps for Using a Wet-Dry Vacuum:

1. Seal the Hose: Attach the vacuum’s hose and create a watertight seal with a towel or duct tape. This prevents leaks and enhances suction.
2. Vacuum Out the Blockage: Insert the sealed hose carefully into the toilet drain, ensuring no air gaps, and activate the vacuum to extract the clog.
3. Assess the Results: Check the bowl for improvements, repeating the process if necessary.

This technique requires caution to avoid damaging the toilet or the vacuum.

Managing Severe Blockages: When to Call a Professional

Some toilet blockages resist all DIY efforts, signalling deeper issues. A professional plumber should be consulted if basic tools such as a plunger or auger fail to clear the obstruction. Persistent blockages may be caused by foreign objects lodged within the pipework, tree root intrusion into sewer lines, or structural damage. Specialists possess advanced equipment like camera systems to pinpoint the problem and high-pressure water jetters to clear stubborn clogs. Signs such as water backing into sinks or tubs, slow draining throughout the home, or foul odours often indicate broader plumbing issues. Prompt action prevents costly damage and ensures system reliability.

Preventing Future Blockages: Maintenance Tips for Toilets

To minimise the risk of future blockages, regular care and mindful practices are essential. Proper maintenance not only avoids inconvenience but also prolongs the life of plumbing fixtures.

• Be mindful of what goes into the toilet: Avoid flushing non-flushable items like wipes, cotton buds, sanitary products, or grease. Stick to toilet paper only.
• Perform routine cleaning: Use a quality toilet cleaner to remove build-up and residue that can contribute to clogs.
• Check for slow drainage early: Slow drainage could signal a developing blockage. Address it promptly to prevent complete clogs.
• Educate household members: Ensure everyone understands proper toilet use. Misuse is a leading cause of blockages.
• Use sufficient water pressure: Ensure the toilet’s flush system functions effectively to fully clear waste.

Regular attention to these factors can prevent repeated plumbing issues and keep your toilet functioning smoothly.