Nearly 20% of homeowners frequently encounter clogged toilets. It’s an extremely frustrating and inconvenient problem to deal with. When you’ve tried all the methods you know, but nothing seems to work, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So, how to unclog toilet when nothing works?
There are several ways to unclog a toilet. You can use some homemade remedies like using baking soda or dish soap. Tools like a plunger or plumbing snake can also effectively unclog a toilet.
So, take a deep breath, and let’s guide you through this process. With our expert tips and your determination, you’ll soon find yourself triumphing over the stubborn clog.
How to Unclog Toilet When Nothing Works?
Despite your best efforts, there are times when common methods may not successfully unclog the toilet. So check out our expert suggestions to overcome this problem:
Plunger Technique
- Place the plunger over the drain hole in the toilet bowl, ensuring it covers it completely.
- Push down firmly and forcefully, then pull up rapidly.
- Repeat this motion several times to create suction and dislodge the clog. Be patient and persistent with this method, as it may take multiple attempts.
Hot Water and Dish Soap
- Add dish soap to the toilet bowl, followed by a bucket of hot (but not boiling) water. The soap will lubricate and break up the clog.
- Pour the water into the bowl from waist height and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Then flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared.
Toilet Auger
A toilet auger, a plumbing snake, is a long, flexible tool designed to clear clogs.
- Insert the auger into the toilet bowl, and as you push it in, rotate the handle to break up or grab onto the clog.
- Once you feel resistance, continue pushing and twisting until the clog is dislodged.
- Pull the auger out and flush the toilet to check if the clog is cleared.
Enzyme-Based Cleaner
If you suspect the clog is caused by organic material, such as excessive toilet paper or waste, an enzyme-based cleaner might be effective. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s packaging, as different products may have varying guidelines.
Typically, you’ll need to pour the cleaner into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a specified time. Then flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Mixture
- Start by pouring one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Follow it up with two cups of vinegar.
- Let the mixture sit for 6-8 hours. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar can help break down the clog.
Wire Coat Hanger
- Straighten out a wire coat hanger, leaving the hook intact.
- Use a pair of pliers to bend the very end of the wire into a small hook shape.
- Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands.
- Insert the hooked end of the wire into the toilet drain and try to maneuver it around the clog.
- Be gentle and avoid pushing the clog further down the drain.
- Once you feel resistance, try hugging the clog and pulling it out.
- Dispose of the clog properly and flush the toilet to check if it’s unclogged.
Chemical Clog Cleaner
These cleaners are specifically formulated to dissolve organic waste, allowing them to flow down the drain and clear the clog.
- Pour the recommended amount of the cleaner into the toilet bowl and let it sit for the specified time.
- Then flush the toilet. But never mix different types of chemical cleaners.
Plumber’s Assistance
If are exhausted trying all the above options and the toilet is still clogged, it may be time to call a professional plumber. Plumbers have specialized tools and expertise to handle stubborn clogs.
They can inspect the plumbing system, identify the root cause of the problem, and take appropriate action to clear the clog.
What Causes a Toilet to Clog?
A toilet can become clogged due to various reasons. Here are some common causes:
Excessive Toilet Paper Usage
Using excessive toilet paper in a single flush can overwhelm the toilet’s drainage capacity and lead to a clog.
Malfunctioning Toilet Flapper
The flapper controls the release of water into the bowl during flushing. It can result in subsequent clogs if it doesn’t open fully or close properly.
Obstruction In The Toilet Trap
Objects or debris in this trap can obstruct the water flow and cause clogs.
Accumulated Hard Water Deposits
Flushing non-biodegradable items such as baby wipes, paper towels, sanitary products, and cotton balls.
Problems in the Sewer Line
Tree roots intruding into the pipes or obstructions in the main sewer line cause toilets to clog.
How to Prevent Toilets from Clogging?
To prevent toilets from clogging, you can follow these tips:
- Avoid flushing large amounts of toilet paper at once
- Use a plunger to clear minor clogs immediately
- Don’t flush non-flushable items such as wet wipes, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels
- Regularly clean the toilet bowl to prevent buildup
- Educate household members on proper toilet usage and what should not be flushed
FAQs
Here we’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about toilet clogs. Let’s check them out.
A blockage could be further down the pipes, or the toilet’s trap may be obstructed.
No, accidental contact with these substances can lead to a burning sensation, inflammation, and in some cases, permanent damage. So use gloves, masks, and protective eye gear when handling chemical drain cleaners.
The clog may be too severe or located further down the pipe. You may need to use a plumbing snake or seek professional help.
Conclusion
So, let’s recap how to unclog the toilet when nothing works. Using a plunger, baking soda and vinegar solution, and chemical cleaner are some of the best ways to unclog a toilet. Prevention is always better than cure, so adopting good practices to avoid toilet clogs in the future is essential.
Likewise, avoid flushing large amounts of toilet paper or sanitary products. Regular maintenance, such as periodic inspections and cleaning, can also help keep your toilet in optimal condition.