How to Unblock a Toilet: Your Step-by-Step Guide

A blocked toilet can quickly become a major inconvenience. This comprehensive, step-by-step guide will help you clear a blocked toilet effectively, using methods ranging from simple DIY techniques to when it’s necessary to seek professional help.

Step 1: Identify the Severity of the Blockage

First, understand the level of blockage you’re facing:

  • Minor blockage: Water drains slowly and is usually caused by excess toilet paper.
  • Moderate blockage: Water rises high before draining slowly, often requiring more than basic remedies.
  • Severe blockage: Water doesn’t drain or overflows, typically requiring immediate professional attention.

Step 2: Essential Tools and Materials

Depending on the blockage severity, you might need:

  • A plunger (ideally a flange plunger)
  • Rubber gloves
  • A bucket
  • Dish soap
  • Hot water (not boiling)
  • Baking soda and vinegar
  • Toilet auger (drain snake)
  • Wet/dry vacuum (for severe blockages)

Step 3: DIY Toilet Unblocking Methods

Using a Plunger

  1. Ensure the toilet bowl has enough water to cover the rubber cup of the plunger.
  2. Place the plunger firmly over the drain hole, creating a tight seal.
  3. Plunge vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds.
  4. Remove the plunger and test to see if the water drains freely.

Dish Soap and Hot Water

  1. Add approximately a quarter cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
  2. Allow the soap to settle for 10 minutes to lubricate the blockage.
  3. Gently pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water into the bowl.
  4. Wait around 15 minutes and attempt flushing.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

  1. Pour one cup of baking soda directly into the toilet bowl.
  2. Gradually add one to two cups of vinegar.
  3. Wait 30 minutes for the fizzing reaction to break down the blockage.
  4. Flush the toilet to check if it’s clear.

Using a Toilet Auger

  1. Insert the auger carefully into the toilet drain until resistance is met.
  2. Rotate the handle to either break apart or retrieve the blockage.
  3. Pull out the auger and remove any debris.
  4. Flush the toilet to confirm the blockage is cleared.

Wet/Dry Vacuum (For Severe Cases)

  1. Extract excess water from the toilet bowl using the vacuum.
  2. Insert the vacuum hose securely into the drain, sealing gaps with towels.
  3. Activate the vacuum to remove the blockage.
  4. Flush afterward to ensure drainage is restored.

Step 4: Knowing When to Seek Professional Help

Consider calling a professional plumber if:

  • DIY methods aren’t successful.
  • Your toilet experiences frequent blockages.
  • Multiple fixtures in your home are blocked or slow.
  • There are unpleasant odours suggesting a deeper problem.

Step 5: Tips to Prevent Future Toilet Blockages

  • Use toilet paper sparingly.
  • Never flush wipes, sanitary items, or non-degradable objects.
  • Regularly clean your toilet to reduce build-up.
  • Educate your household on proper toilet use to minimise future issues.

With these steps, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle most toilet blockages, ensuring your plumbing system stays trouble-free.