Clogged Toilet? How to Fix It Without Making It Worse

ByAuthor

A clogged toilet is one of the most stressful plumbing problems — especially when the water rises and you panic. The good news is, most clogs can be fixed safely at home without breaking anything or flooding the bathroom, as long as you follow the right steps.

This guide shows you how to:
✔ Unclog a toilet step-by-step
✔ Use a plunger the right way (most people don’t!)
✔ Try safe alternatives like soap & hot water
✔ Avoid the mistakes that make clogs worse
✔ Know when it’s time to call a plumber

First: STOP Doing These Things

Before you touch anything, avoid these common mistakes:

❌ Don’t flush again — it can overflow
❌ Don’t use harsh chemicals — they damage pipes & toilets
❌ Don’t stick metal hangers in the drain — scratches = future leaks
❌ Don’t panic and start plunging without preparation

Take control before it turns into a mess.

Method 1: The Correct Way to Use a Plunger

Most people plunge incorrectly. Here’s the right way:

  1. Make sure water covers the rubber plunger head (add water if needed)
  2. Seal the plunger tightly over the drain hole
  3. Push slowly first to remove trapped air
  4. Then plunge hard 10–20 times
  5. Pull up quickly to release pressure

If the water drains down, the clog is gone.

Pro Tip: Use a flange plunger, not a flat sink plunger.

Method 2: Dish Soap + Hot Water (Safe Home Hack)

Perfect for soft clogs caused by paper or waste.

Steps:

  1. Add 1 cup of dish soap to the bowl
  2. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
  3. Pour hot (not boiling) water from waist height
  4. Wait another 10 minutes
  5. Try flushing

The soap lubricates and breaks down material inside.

Method 3: Toilet Snake or Auger

For tougher clogs deeper in the drain:

  1. Insert the snake into the toilet drain
  2. Rotate the handle until you feel resistance
  3. Break through or pull the clog out
  4. Flush to clear remaining debris

These cost $10–$40 at Home Depot, Walmart, and hardware stores.

When NOT to DIY

It’s time to call a plumber if:

  • Water is backing up into other drains
  • Plunger + soap + auger didn’t work
  • There’s sewage smell or black water
  • Overflowing toilet happens repeatedly
  • Multiple fixtures clog at once (not a toilet issue — sewer line issue)

This may mean a sewer line blockage, which needs pro equipment.

How to Prevent Future Toilet Clogs

  • Don’t flush wipes (even “flushable” ones)
  • Limit toilet paper per flush
  • Keep a trash can nearby to avoid drain misuse
  • Regularly clean with hot water & soap flush method
  • Avoid chemical drain cleaners

A little prevention saves a big headache.

Need a pro to handle it?

👉 Find a plumber near you on PlumbersCorners.com
👉 List your plumbing services & get customers instantly

Similar Posts