Dealing with a stopped up toilet can be a frustrating experience, but with the right tools and techniques, you can often resolve the issue yourself without calling a plumber. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to clear a stopped up toilet effectively and safely.Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- Plunger (preferably a flange plunger for toilets)
- Rubber gloves
- Bucket
- Toilet auger (also known as a closet auger)
- Old towels or rags
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process:
- Assess the situation: Determine if the toilet is completely clogged or just draining slowly. This will help you choose the right approach.
- Prepare the area: Place old towels around the base of the toilet to catch any spills. Put on your rubber gloves for hygiene.
- Try plunging first: Create a tight seal with the plunger over the drain hole and push down firmly, then pull up sharply. Repeat this motion 10-15 times.
- Check for results: After plunging, flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared. If not, repeat the plunging process.
- Use a toilet auger if needed: If plunging doesn’t work, carefully insert the auger into the drain and turn the handle clockwise while pushing gently.
- Test again: After using the auger, flush the toilet to check if the clog is cleared.
If these methods don’t work, you might need to try some alternative solutions:
- Pour hot (but not boiling) water into the bowl from about waist height
- Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar
- Try a commercial drain cleaner specifically designed for toilets
To prevent future clogs, consider these maintenance tips:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste
- Avoid flushing feminine hygiene products, wipes (even ‘flushable’ ones), or paper towels
- Perform regular maintenance with enzyme-based cleaners
- Consider installing a bidet to reduce toilet paper use
Remember that if you’ve tried all these methods and your toilet is still stopped up, it might be time to call a professional plumber. Persistent clogs could indicate a more serious problem in your plumbing system.By following these steps and preventive measures, you can keep your toilet functioning properly and avoid the hassle of dealing with a stopped up toilet in the future. Regular maintenance and proper usage are key to preventing most common toilet clogs.