We’ve all been there—that moment of panic when you flush the toilet and instead of draining away, the water starts rising. A clogged toilet isn’t just inconvenient, it can quickly turn into a messy situation if not handled properly. The good news? Most blockages can be fixed with a few simple tools and techniques, and we’re here to guide you through it.
At Swish Plumbing, we’ve seen (and fixed) it all. Whether you want to tackle the problem yourself or call in the experts, here’s everything you need to know about unclogging a toilet and keeping your plumbing in top shape.
Common Causes of a Clogged Toilet
Before diving into the solutions, let’s take a quick look at what’s causing the problem in the first place. Understanding the culprit can help you prevent future blockages.
1. Too Much Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is designed to break down in water, but using too much at once can overwhelm your plumbing system. If your toilet struggles to flush completely, try using less paper or flushing in stages.
2. Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Just because something fits down the drain doesn’t mean it belongs there. Items like baby wipes (even “flushable” ones), cotton buds, dental floss, and sanitary products don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause stubborn blockages.
3. Hard Water Build-Up
If you live in an area with hard water, mineral deposits can build up inside your pipes over time. This narrows the pipe opening, making it easier for waste and toilet paper to get stuck. Regular cleaning can help prevent this.
4. Tree Root Intrusion
If you have older plumbing or large trees near your home, tree roots can work their way into your pipes, causing slow drainage and recurring blockages. If you suspect this is the issue, you’ll need a plumber to inspect your system.
5. A Weak Flush
Sometimes, the issue isn’t what’s being flushed, but the toilet itself. If your toilet isn’t flushing with enough force, waste may not be clearing the pipes properly. This could be due to a faulty flush valve, a low-flow toilet that needs an upgrade, or an issue with the water pressure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clearing a Clogged Toilet
If your toilet is blocked, don’t panic. Here are five proven methods to clear the clog and get things flowing again.
1. The Plunger Method
A plunger is the simplest and most effective tool for most clogs. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Use the right plunger. A flange plunger (the one with the extra rubber lip) is best for toilets as it creates a better seal.
- Get a good seal. Position the plunger over the drain hole, ensuring the rubber part covers the entire opening.
- Plunge with force. Push down firmly, then pull up sharply. Repeat this motion 15-20 times, maintaining a tight seal.
- Check for success. If the water starts to drain, flush the toilet to see if it clears completely.
If the plunger isn’t working, try adding hot water and dish soap (see step 2) to help loosen the clog.
2. Hot Water and Dish Soap Trick
If the blockage is caused by excess toilet paper or grease buildup, hot water and dish soap can help break it down.
- Squirt a generous amount of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
- Heat a pot of water (not boiling—too hot can crack the porcelain) and carefully pour it into the bowl.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to soften the clog.
- Try flushing to see if the blockage has cleared.
This method works best on minor clogs that aren’t completely blocking the pipe.
3. The Toilet Auger
If the plunger and hot water method don’t work, a toilet auger (also called a closet auger) can help break up deeper clogs.
- Insert the auger into the bowl with the curved end pointing down the drain.
- Slowly crank the handle to push the cable deeper into the pipes.
- When you feel resistance, rotate the auger to break up the clog.
- Pull the auger out carefully, then flush to see if the blockage has cleared.
If the auger doesn’t work, the blockage might be further down the sewer line—time to call in a plumber.
4. Baking Soda and Vinegar
If you want to avoid harsh chemicals, try using baking soda and vinegar to break down organic waste.
- Pour one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Follow with two cups of vinegar. It will fizz up—don’t worry, that’s normal.
- Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for tough clogs.
- Flush with hot water and check if the clog has cleared.
This is best for mild to moderate clogs and for regular maintenance to keep your pipes clear.
5. Chemical Drain Cleaners (A Last Resort)
While chemical drain cleaners can break up tough blockages, they can damage your pipes over time. Use them sparingly and follow the instructions carefully.
- Choose a toilet-safe product, as some drain cleaners are too harsh for toilets.
- Pour the recommended amount into the bowl.
- Wait the specified time before flushing, usually 15-30 minutes.
- Flush and assess.
Only use this as a last resort, and never on a completely blocked toilet, as the chemicals may sit in the bowl and cause fumes.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried multiple methods and the toilet is still blocked, it’s time to call in the experts.
Signs you need a plumber:
- The blockage keeps coming back.
- The water is backing up into other drains.
- You suspect tree roots or a deeper sewer issue.
- You hear gurgling sounds from other fixtures.
- DIY attempts have made the problem worse.
At Swish Plumbing, we have the tools and experience to clear stubborn clogs quickly and safely—without risking damage to your pipes.
How to Prevent Future Toilet Clogs
A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your toilet clog-free. Follow these simple tips:
- Only flush toilet paper and waste—everything else belongs in the bin.
- Use a moderate amount of toilet paper and flush in stages if needed.
- Avoid chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes over time.
- Schedule regular plumbing inspections to catch issues before they escalate.
Keep Your Toilet Flowing Smoothly
Unclogging a toilet isn’t the most glamorous job, but with the right tools and techniques, most blockages can be cleared quickly. Start with a plunger, try hot water and dish soap, and move up to a toilet auger if needed.
If the clog won’t budge, don’t stress—Swish Plumbing is here to help. We’ll handle the messy jobs so you don’t have to.
Need a plumber? Call Swish Plumbing on 0402 547 293 today.
