5 Ways to Unclog a Stopped-Up Toilet

For most homeowners, one of the worst things that can happen to their home’s plumbing is to have a toilet that won’t flush.

Clogs can be a common occurrence but that doesn’t make them any less stressful. This is especially true when they affect one of the most used appliances in the home.

So, your expert Brooklyn plumbing at Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning want to alleviate some of that stress by offering you some tips on how to get your toilet functional again. Here are five ways to unclog your toilet.

The Plunger

The first option is the plunger, an item no home should be without. To use the plunger successfully, make sure the plunger is fully engulfed in water. If there isn’t enough water in the bowl, add some. This helps the plunger create a good seal and helps you push and pull water through the opening. A plunger with a bell shape is preferable for a toilet opening.

Enzyme Waste Remover

Since most of what is clogging your toilet is probably organic, products that contain enzymes can liquify the clog. This allows the clog to go down on its own. However, if the problem is that your child has flushed their favorite toy down the drain, this probably won’t be helpful.

The Baking Soda “Bomb”

If you remember middle school science class, this option will be somewhat familiar. Pour about a half cup of baking soda into the opening and then add a half cup of vinegar followed by some hot water. This will create a “volcano” of baking soda “lava” that will safely dislodge many common clogs. You may need to leave the mixture overnight to ensure it dissolves the clog. This method is also good for simply keeping drains clear. It’s an organic way to keep pipes clean and can be used once a month.

The Coat Hanger

While the wire coat hanger has been replaced by its wooden and plastic cousins in our closets, having a few wire hangers around can be useful. First, you’ll need to unravel and straighten the hanger. Duct tape a rag around one end to protect the toilet’s porcelain finish from the hanger and bend the hanger slightly so that it will go into and then up into the opening. Twist the hanger as you push it forward. This method is good for clogs that are stuck a few inches into the opening.

The Snake

Finally, when all else fails, head to your local hardware store and buy a plumbing snake. You should purchase one that is designed for toilets. This auger is made of a flexible coil of wire that can be cranked into your toilet drain and can reach much further than the wire hanger. The goal is to reach the clog and break it up so that it will go down the drain on its own.

But, if you’ve tried all of these methods and the clog still stands, it may be time to call in the professionals. At Petri, we understand how a stopped-up toilet can ruin your day. Give us a call or contact us online. We’ll get a technician out as soon as possible to help!

So, your Brooklyn plumbing experts at Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning want to alleviate some of that stress by offering you some tips on how to get your toilet functional again. Here are five ways to unclog your toilet.