A frustrating problem, a clogged toilet is an issue that needs to be solved ASAP. At home or at work, a non-functioning loo often becomes worse with time and can result in an unsanitary living or working environment. To find out how to unclog a toilet, do-it-yourself style, read on.
Materials
- Rubber gloves
- Newspaper and/or towels
- Toilet brush
- Toilet plunger
- Toilet snake
Step-By-Step
- Open the bathroom window to ensure proper ventilation.
- Place a layer of newspaper or towels around the base of the toilet.
- Assess the severity of the blockage by flushing the toilet once (do not flush multiple times as this can cause the toilet to overflow). If the water does not drain, it is fully blocked and if the water drains slowly, it is partially blocked.
- Turn off the water supply, either behind the toilet or using the home or building’s stopcock.
- Put on a pair of rubber gloves. These protect the skin from bacteria, dirt and other unpleasant substances.
- If you can see the blockage, use a toilet brush to break it up and, if possible, remove it.
- If you can’t see the blockage, try using a toilet plunger. Create a tight seal and be sure to start gently, using the most force when you are pulling it out. For the best results, submerge the plunger underwater and plunge vigorously once all of the air has been forced out of the plunger.
- If plunging is not successful, a toilet snake is next in your line of defense. Retract the coil of the toilet snake fully into the shaft, putting the curved rubber end into the toilet. Rotate and push the coil through until the blockage is removed.
- Still blocked? If a toilet brush, plunger and snake don’t do the job, a visit from an emergency plumber is in order. Browse our detailed business listings to find a 24/7 company serving your areaa.
