How to Unblock a Toilet | Best Proven Methods to Try

What Causes a Blocked Toilet?

Toilet clogs mostly happen because of a lack of proper maintenance. For example, throwing excessive amounts of toilet paper, foreign objects, hair, or sanitary napkins can eventually create clogs. That is why you must set some ground rules in your home, explaining why some things do not belong in toilets, especially if you have children.

In some rare instances, toilets may also be blocked due to external factors, such as:

• Toilet Fresheners: Gel-like toilet fresheners accumulate in the pipes and dissolve slowly, contributing to blockages.
• Hard Water Deposits: Mineral deposits can build up over time because of hard water, restricting the passage in pipes and causing clogs.
• Tree Roots: Blockages can also happen when nearby tree roots intrude into your pipes, damaging the system.
• Faulty Sewer Line: Issues in the sewer line can cause a toilet to back up and get blocked.
• Collapsed Pipes: Sometimes, pipes may collapse and obstruct the water flow and waste. It may be due to age, external pressure, or corrosion.

How to Clear a Blocked Toilet?

Here are some of the best-proven methods to clear blocked toilets approved by our plumbing experts.

1. Pick Up a Plunger

A simple tool, yet mighty in clearing drains and pipes.

Cover the drain with its rubber cup, then plunge vigorously. Push down hard, and pull up quickly. This suction dance often frees blockages fast. If it doesn’t on the first try, repeat the rhythmic motion until the water flows freely again.

2. Use Hot Water

Hot water can dissolve stubborn clogs when plungers fail. Pour steaming (not boiling) water into the bowl. Wait briefly. The heat softens blockages, easing their removal. After a few minutes, try flushing again. This method often succeeds where plunging falls short, gently clearing pipes without damaging porcelain.

3. Try the Combo of Baking Soda & Vinegar

Organic blockages often yield to simple kitchen remedies—And baking soda and vinegar top this list. Try it this way.

• Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 2 cups of vinegar in the toilet bowl.
• Let it fizz for 15 minutes, breaking down debris.
• Flush to test if the clog dissolves.

This eco-friendly approach can restore flow without harsh chemicals, saving both plumbing and the environment.

4. DIY a Drain Snake

When faced with stubborn blockages, emergency plumbers wield specialized drain snakes and augers. For a DIY approach, transform a wire coat hanger into a makeshift tool. Straighten it carefully, then probe gently to dislodge the clog. Exercise caution to avoid scratching your porcelain fixture during this DIY.

5. Get an Enzyme Cleaner

Blocked toilet pipes cause frustration but enzyme cleaners provide an effective solution. These products target organic matter, dissolving clogs efficiently. Unlike corrosive alternatives, they are also safe for your pipes. Adhere to package directions and you shall see the results soon.

6. Use Detergent

Pour hot water into the toilet bowl, then add a generous squirt of detergent. Allow this mixture to sit, lubricating the pipes. As time passes, the detergent and heat work in tandem, gradually breaking down the blockage. Finally, flush to clear the loosened obstruction, restoring proper flow to your plumbing.

Your Next Steps to Ensure Clear Toilets:

Now, you and your family can take some proactive steps to keep plumbing issues away from your bathrooms. Choose your course of action after consulting with your plumber, as they can guide you the best.

• Regular Plumbing Inspection: Don’t wait for a crisis – invest in routine checkups today with a plumber Melbourne. Proactive maintenance keeps your plumbing smooth, saving you time and money in the long run. So, consider scheduling annual or biannual inspections, particularly for older systems or those with recurring troubles.
• Toilet Upgrade: Advanced flushing systems use less water yet perform better. High-efficiency toilets (HETs) and dual-flush options adapt to waste type. These innovations prevent clogs and save water. So when shopping, prioritise strong flush ratings and water-saving features.
• Fixing Issues Immediately: Tackle toilet troubles early to avoid costly consequences. Slow drains, odd sounds, and occasional clogs may seem minor, but they can escalate rapidly. Left unchecked, these issues can morph into major blockages or pipe damage. So, take swift action and prevent pricey repairs.

Final Word:

You never know when a toilet may clog, so it’s always better to learn some tricks to deal with emergencies. If this seems stressful or time-consuming, feel free to call our efficient plumbers in Geelong and other suburbs at Your Local Plumbing. We will come and fix the clog for you.