A simple plunger will make you the family hero! Learn how to unclog a toilet here. Even though we independently choose every editorial product, we might get paid or earn an affiliate commission if you purchase something after clicking one of our links. The items are in stock, and the ratings and prices are accurate as of the date of publication. Clogged toilet? No problem. Even a novice in-home repair can unclog most toilets with a little practise and a plunger or toilet snake in a matter of minutes (without flooding the bathroom and worsening the situation).
Tools Necessary
- Plunger
- Rubber gloves
Is the toilet not flushing all the way? Here is the next step.
The drain is either completely or partially clogged when your toilet flushes poorly. Most clogged toilets are referred to as “slow drainers.” In other words, although the bowl is partially filled, the waste is not immediately flushed away by the flush water. The water level typically drains down to its normal height within a minute or two of remaining high. Maybe you won’t even notice the toilet is clogged until you flush it. Therefore, if you suspect there might be a problem, check the drainage first before using the plunger.
Step-by-step guide!
Step 1
How to Check the Drainage of a Non-Flushing Toilet
Remove the tank lid, slightly lift the flapper valve to let a cup or two of water into the bowl, and check to see if the water goes down before attempting to forcefully unclog the toilet. However, be prepared with towels because flushing a clogged toilet could cause your floor to flood.
Step 2
Start with a plunger to unclog a toilet
You only need one special tool, a toilet plunger, to unclog about 90% of toilets. Purchase a plunger for the toilet that has an extension flange on the rubber bell end. To deliver more “oomph” to the plunge, a toilet plunger with an extension flange is made to fit toilets better. If you simply fold the flange back into the bell, the toilet plunger will also unplug the sink and bathtub drain.
How To Use a Plunger
To get a better seal, first, plunge the toilet with the rubber flange pulled out. Strenuously push in and out while making sure there is enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger. Towels are always handy to clean up any water that splashes out.
Plunging Tips
The toilet drain is covered and sealed with a plunger. Wear rubber gloves because things can get messy, and observe this advice for diving:
- Take a slow, cautious first step. Initially, the bell will be full of air. When you push firmly, water will spray all over the bathroom and you as the air is forced back around the seal.
- Once the air has been forced out, plunge quickly in and out while maintaining the seal. The majority of clogs will be successfully removed by forcing water in both directions through the drain. Continue, if necessary plunging 15–20 times.
- Be patient. Aim to alternate between regular strokes and sporadic monster heaves.
- Make sure there is enough water in the bowl to keep the plunger cover. There won’t be much pressure created if you try to force air through the toilet trap.
The majority of the time, plunging is sufficient to remove the obstruction. Try using a toilet snake, though, for tougher obstructions.
(Note: If your toilet keeps clogging up, there may be a performance problem.
