Ready to fix that clogged Toilet?

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Has your toilet stopped flushing? Maybe it’s gurgling loud. Or water’s rising fast. Don’t panic yet! Learning how to unclog a toilet is simple. In fact, it takes just a few steps. So, you can fix it yourself quick. Plus, get back to normal fast. With our guide, you’ll clear it easily. Then, water flushes smooth again! But hold on—prevention comes next.
Because toilet clogs top the list for renter charges. For example, watch what you flush. Too much paper jams it often. So, go easy on the roll. Also, skip flushing wipes or junk. That stuff blocks pipes bad. Instead, trash it first always. By staying sharp, you avoid landlord fees. Plus, you protect your deposit too. Who doesn’t love that win?
Tools You May need to unclog A Clogged toilet
- Flange Plunger – For, well PLUNGING!
- Toilet Auger – Highly recommend EVERYONE owns an Auger!
- Screwdriver – Combination screwdriver
- Flashlight – Scope the dark with this LED flashlight
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Step 1: Spot the Blockage
Ready to learn how to unclog a toilet? First, check what’s stopping the flush. Is water climbing up high when you flush? Or trickling down super slow? Peek in the bowl. See a pile of paper jammed tight? That’s a common clog right there and should be able to be resolved with a Plunger. Otherwise, something else might be stuck. Maybe a kid’s toy went for a swim. So, take a second to look. Does it gurgle when you flush? That’s a hint the stoppage is deep and sadly, requires a plumber’s intervention. Figuring this out helps you pick your next move smart!
BoomTip : NEVER FLUSH WIPES – EVEN ONES MARKED AS FLUSHABLE!

Step 2: Plunge It Out or try a toilet Auger to unclog toilet
Let’s tackle how to unclog a toilet with a plunger! First, grab a flange plunger—it’s the best pick. See that rubber flap at the bottom? That’s for toilets. Now, hold it by the handle tight. Set it in the bowl’s hole firm. Make sure it seals all around. Then, push down slow but strong and pick a beat in your head and get ready to plunge.
Feel the resistance? Good! Next, pull up quick—like you’re lifting water. Repeat this push-pull dance five times. Keep your grip steady—don’t splash! Does water start to move? Awesome! If not, go again—more pumps might do it! It’s critical that you have a good seal around the bottom of the Plunger to force the water down. If this doesn’t resolve, lets move onto a toilet auger.
Now, let’s dive into how to unclog a toilet with a toilet auger. So, grab a toilet auger—your clog-busting hero. What’s that, you ask? It’s a slick tool with a long, coiled snake. Plus, a crank handle to twist it. Why’s it great? It powers through deep clogs easy. Think paper or mystery junk—gone! Best part? They’re cheap—about $30 to $40 at hardware stores. Everyone should own one, seriously! For instance, it saves you a $95 plumbing call. That’s cash for pizza instead! Who doesn’t love pizza?
First, hold the auger by the handle tight. Check out that snake—it’s ready to work! Then, ease it into the bowl slow. Push it past the trap gentle. Feel a block? Perfect! Next, crank the handle clockwise firm. Keep turning to smash the clog. Starting to loosen? Nice! Now, pull it back out slow. See the gunk? Gross but that’s money! After, flush to test the flow. All clear? You’re a champ!
Then, clean it up right. Wipe the snake with a rag. Hit it with disinfectant spray too. Let it air dry quick. Finally, store it smart. Hang it in a dry corner. Or stash it in a bag. Boom—clogs fear you now!

Step 3: Stopping future toilet clogs
Finally, let’s keep how to unclog a toilet a rare chore! You’ve fixed it—now protect that win. First, flush only waste and toilet paper. That’s it—no exceptions ever! For instance, wipes seem flushable, right? Wrong—they clog pipes fast and hurt our environment. Same goes for tissues or paper towels. Plus, random junk like cotton balls?
Never flush those either! They jam things up quick and you’ll have another clogged toilet. So, toss extras in the trash instead. Also, cut back on paper use just enough to get by. Less paper means fewer clogs. Then, watch your habits close. Kids around? Teach ‘em this too. Landlords love charging for plumbing calls—don’t give them the chance! By staying smart, you save cash. Plus, your deposit stays safe. Boom—your toilet runs smooth forever!

FAQ – How to Unclog a toilet
What are the most common causes of a clogged toilet?

Toilets commonly clog due to excessive toilet paper, flushing non-flushable items like wipes, sanitary products, or cotton balls, or a buildup of waste. Low-flow toilets may also clog more easily if too much material is flushed at once. Hard water deposits or sewer line issues can contribute in some cases.
What tools or household items can I use to unclog a toilet effectively?

plunger with a flange is the most effective tool for unclogging a toilet, as it creates a strong seal. A toilet auger can help for deeper clogs. Household items like dish soap and hot water can sometimes break up minor clogs, while a wire hanger (straightened) may work for small blockages. Always wear gloves to stay sanitary.
How can I unclog a toilet without a plunger?

If you don’t have a plunger, try pouring a few drops of dish soap and a bucket of hot (not boiling) water into the bowl from waist height to create pressure. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to loosen the clog. Alternatively, use a toilet brush to gently push or break up the blockage, or feed a straightened wire hanger into the drain to dislodge it.
When should I call a professional plumber for a clogged toilet?

Call a plumber if the clog persists after multiple attempts with a plunger or auger, if water backs up into other drains (indicating a sewer line issue), or if you notice gurgling sounds or foul odors from multiple fixtures. Recurring clogs or signs of overflow also warrant professional help to prevent damage.
BoomTips
- Gear Up: Wear gloves and goggles before unclogging a toilet. So, when stuff splashes, you’re safe. Boom—gross stays off you!
- Stock Up: Keep a flange plunger or auger handy. Then, if a clogged toilet hits, you’re ready to fix it fast.
- Know Your Lease: Peek at your rental agreement now. For instance, if plumbing’s on the landlord after 24 hours, push ‘em quick to unclog your toilet, Save cash!
- Quick Check: Flush with less paper weekly. Plus, watch for slow drains early.