Simple Ways to Unclog Your Toilet with a plunger

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Every homeowner should be able to successfully unclog a toilet. When left unattended, a clogged toilet can be annoying, uncomfortable, and is just unclean. While there're several ways to unclog a toilet, a plunger is one of the most efficient and cost-effective pieces of equipment to use. We'll go over how to unclog a toilet with a plunger and offer some advice on how to avoid this from happening again.

Before we learn how to unclog a toilet with a plunger, you need the following equipment:

  • Plunger: also known as the flange plunger, the toilet plunger is the ideal kind for unclogging. This particular plunger has an interior rubber flange and a broad, rubber cup at the bottom. The flange seals the drain, generating suction that dislodges whatever's clodding your toilet. We recommend using this specific plunger instead of the one you would use after learning how to unclog a kitchen sink.
  • Water: You'll also need a bucket of clean water.

unclogging a toilet using a plunger

 

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Unclog a Toilet with a Plunger

Here's how to unclog a toilet with a plunger with some practice and the right equipment:

  1. Start by clearing your work area. Remove any obstructions or clutter surrounding the base of the toilet.
  2. Place the bucket of clean water near your toilet.
  3. Place the plunger over the toilet bowl's howl near the bottom. The rubber cup must be completely submerged in the water.
  4. To create suction, press down on the plunger's handle. It might be necessary to use some force, but take care not to damage the plunger or the toilet.
  5. Pull up on the handle as soon as the plunger's firmly in position to swiftly relieve the suction. This should unclog the obstruction and remove it.
  6. Repeat until the obstruction is removed. You may need to use the water in the bucket to make sure that the toilet bowl is full and the plunger has enough suction.
  7. To make sure that the obstruction has been cleared, flush your toilet a few times.

You should be able to use a plunger to quickly unclog your toilet by following these instructions. Just keep in mind to exercise caution when trying to unclog your plumbing and use the proper tools for the job!

Alternative Methods for Unclogging a Toilet

Now that you know how to unclog a toilet with a plunger, here's how to unclog a toilet without a plunger:

  • Toilet auger: Used to unclog toilet drain clogs, a toilet auger is a long, flexible rod with an auger or spiral end. To use a toilet auger, push the auger's end through the drain until it comes to the blockage. The auger end should be inserted into the aperture at the bottom of the toilet bowl. Turning the auger handle should remove whatever's clogging your toilet. If you've tried using a plunger and your toilet is still clogged, opt for an auger instead.
  • Dish soap and hot water: Pouring a pot of hot water into the toilet bowl and adding dish soap is another technique that can help to loosen obstructions. Dish soap lubricates the pipe and the hot water encourages whatever's blocking your toilet to move along as well as melts any oil or soap scum clogging the toilet.
  • Baking soda and vinegar: Mixing baking soda and vinegar is another all-natural way to unclog a toilet. Pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of white vinegar into the toilet bowl. The reaction between the vinegar and baking soda will be fizz so let this sit in the toilet for about an hour. Afterward, flush your toilet a few times to see if it's unclogged.

While you have learned how to unclog a toilet with a plunger, if you don't have one or it didn't work, you can use these techniques instead. Otherwise, contact a professional plumber to look at your toilet and whatever is clogging it.

 

 

Tips for Preventing Future Toilet Clogs

A clogged toilet is pretty unpleasant to deal with and you don't have to settle for constantly cleaning it up. To keep your toilet in good working order and prevent plumbing issues, follow these tips:

  • Don't flush non-biodegradable goods down the toilet: Items like baby wipes, feminine hygiene items, paper towels, and other non-biodegradable items can obstruct the plumbing, resulting in clogs and other issues.
  • Regularly wipe down the toilet bowl with a brush: Maintaining a clean toilet bowl inside is another way to prevent it from getting clogged. Use a toilet brush to clear any dirt from accumulating in the toilet bowl and causing a clog.
  • Use a toilet with dual flushing or one with a reduced flow rate: Consider investing in a toilet with dual flushing capabilities or a reduced-flow toilet if you frequently experience clog issues if you are calculating the costs for a bathroom remodel. These toilets flush with less water, which can ease the pressure on your plumbing and reduce clogs.unclogging a clogged toilet using a plunger

Bottom Line: How To Unclog a Toilet With A Plunger

Learning about how to unclog a toilet with a plunger is never a bad idea. We recommend clearing up your work area and having a bucket of water ready to go before using your plunger to remove whatever's obstructing the toilet bowl hole. Remember to fully immerse the rubber cup, using water to create enough suction until your toilet is unclogged. To prevent this from happening again, look after your toilet!

FAQs on Unclogging a Toilet with a Plunger

What tools do I need to use a plunger to unclog a toilet?

After you learn how to unclog a toilet with a plunger, you will need to prepare a flange plunger and a bucket of fresh water.

What is the exact procedure for using a plunger to clear a clogged toilet?

Here's how to unclog a toilet with a plunger:

  • Clear up your workspace.
  • Place your bucket of fresh water near the toilet.
  • Put the plunger into the toilet bowl and make sure that it is covering the opening or toilet bowl hole and submerged in water.
  • Squeeze the plunger's handle to create suction and then pull up.
  • Repeat until the obstruction is cleared adding water to the bowl as needed.
  • Flush the toilet to make sure there's no problem and it's unclogged.

What alternative techniques are there for clearing a clogged toilet?

Alternative techniques for clearing a clogged toilet include using a toilet auger, a plumbing snake, hot water and dish soap, or vinegar and baking soda.

How can I avoid having blockages in the first place?

Learn how to properly clean a toilet seat as well as other parts and don't flush large or non-biodegradable items down the toilet.

What should I do if the plunger method fails or if the clog keeps coming back?

If you've learned how to unclog a toilet with a plunger and have used alternative methods, consult a professional plumber.

What safety measures should I take when using a plunger?

After you've learned how to unclog a toilet with a plunger and are going to attempt to do so, use the right equipment and use caution as you work in the bathroom.

When disposing of waste, are there any environmental considerations?

Yes, avoid flushing bulky or non-biodegradable items down the toilet.

 

Abigail Clemente

Abigail is an experienced content creator who has worked with several big names in the home decor and interior design industry. She comes to our team with almost 6 years of experience of working as a full time content writer.

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