How many flushes does it take to unclog a toilet?

Author: Dr. Angus Toy  |  Last update: Monday, February 9, 2026

Repeat this as many times as you need to successfully drain the toilet—and be patient. It may take a few rounds of 15-20 good plunges before you see results. Flush to check that the toilet is once again draining normally. If it isn't, the clog may require more plunging.

Will flushing a toilet multiple times unclog it?

DO NOT: Take the flush-and-a-prayer method of flushing again – and again - until the blockage breaks up. Chances are this could lead to overflow. DO: If water is already rising, lift the tank lid and carefully use the rubber floater to block water from filling the hole at the bottom.

How long will it take to unclog a toilet?

Pump the plunger over the hole.

It may take 15 to 20 cycles before the toilet unclogs. Be patient. As long as you don't have a hard object (like a kid's toy) stuck in there, plunging alone often suffices. It might not work immediately but will often work after a few dozen plunge cycles.

How do you unblock a badly blocked toilet?

Using a plunger is often the most straightforward method for unclogging a toilet. Start by positioning the plunger over the drain and creating a tight seal. Push and pull the plunger vigorously to generate suction and dislodge the clog. Repeat as necessary until the water starts to drain properly.

Does pouring water in a clogged toilet make it flush?

Yes, pouring water directly into a toilet bowl can make it flush. When you pour a sufficient amount of water quickly, it can create enough force to trigger the siphoning action in the toilet's plumbing system, allowing the waste and water to be flushed away.

Unclog A Toilet-3 Different Ways Guaranteed!

What is the strongest thing to unclog a toilet?

Drano for toilets is a popular choice for many homeowners when dealing with stubborn clogs. This powerful product has been a trusted solution for many years, effectively breaking down and dislodging blockages that can cause significant inconvenience and potential damage in the bathroom.

Does pouring water down a toilet unblock it?

Fill a bucket with hot, but not quite boiling water and pour it directly into the drain. The combination of heat and pressure can sometimes be enough to clear minor blockages such as soap scum build-up.

Will a toilet eventually unblock?

Will a toilet eventually unblock? Depending on the type of blockage a toilet can eventually unclog itself. Toilet paper may start to break down as the toilet is flushed.

What not to do when unclogging a toilet?

3 Ways NOT to Unclog Your Toilet (Unless You Want to Damage It)
  1. Using chemical drain cleaners (like Drano) Most chemical drain cleaners clear your drain by breaking down the clog with a chemical reaction. ...
  2. Plunging down too hard. ...
  3. Using the wrong plumber's snake.

Why won't my toilet unclog with a plunger?

You need water, not air, pressure to loosen the clog. If your toilet lacks water, pour in enough water till the plunger is covered. Use a gentle plunge initially since a hard one will force air back around the seal, blowing water all over you and your bathroom floor.

Is it okay to leave a clogged toilet overnight?

Letting a clogged toilet sit too long can result in more severe problems. Beyond the risk of overflow and water damage, the clog could also cause toilet water to back up into other parts of your plumbing system, affecting sinks, showers, and even your home's main sewer line.

How to unclog a toilet when the water is high?

Align the rubber cup of a toilet plunger over the centre of the hole of the toilet bowl. Apply downward pressure slowly at first, gradually increasing the speed and intensity. If a clog has caused the overflow, a plunger will dislodge the mass and allow water to escape through the plumbing.

How long does dish soap take to unclog a toilet?

Pouring dish soap down a toilet will unclog many obstructions. Pour 1/2- to 1-cup of dish soap directly in the toilet water and wait about 30 minutes before flushing. Follow the dish soap with a gallon of hot water if dish soap alone does not work.

Will letting a clogged toilet sit help?

Additionally, letting a clogged toilet sit for a long time makes it more likely that more buildup, debris, and waste will accumulate around the blockage. That also leads to more serious clogs stubborn enough to require professional plumbing services.

Will clogged toilet water eventually go down?

Substances like toilet paper and fecal matter will eventually dissolve within the toilet drain and clear the clog organically. However, blockages made from insoluble materials won't resolve on their own and typically require you to fix the clog manually or contact a professional before they worsen.

Why does my toilet flush but poop stays after flushing?

It may be because your toilet drain is clogged, a faulty water tank, low water pressure, or even the design of your toilet. The good news is that it is easy to fix this problem. You can either get in touch with a professional plumber or try it yourself.

What is the trick to unclogging a toilet?

Use a Plunger

Just be sure to get a tight fit at the bottom of the bowl and ensure that the top of the plunger is submerged. If necessary, add more water. Plunge as vigorously as possible without splashing, and with a little luck, you'll be flushing again in no time.

What is good to pour in clogged toilet?

Pour in Soap & Hot Water

Dish soap is more dense than hot water, and it's also designed to help break down grease and grime—especially mixed with hot water. It should be no surprise, then, that this mixture can also help loosen many materials that can clog a toilet bowl.

When I flush my toilet, it fills up with water then slowly drains.?

Check your water levels

Low water levels in your tank are common causes of toilets filling up with water when flushed. They can also cause slow-draining toilets. You can manually top up your tank with water to help the flush. Then, check the flush tube for cracks and bends that lead to leaks.

What is the best toilet clog remover?

What is the best overall drain cleaner? During our lab testing, we found the Green Gobbler Main Line Opener performed best at clearing clogs. It's worth noting that the Green Gobbler Main Line Opener claims to be safe for toilets, sinks, tubs, showers and even septic tanks.

Will a blocked drain clear itself?

In some cases, a blocked drain can clear itself. This depends on the cause and severity of the blockage. For example, minor clogs caused by soap scum or small debris might eventually break down and wash away. Most blockages stem from more persistent issues, such as hair, food waste, or tree roots.

Will toilets unclog themselves?

You'll be pleased to know that a standard blockage, caused by flushing inappropriate materials or too much toilet roll, will unblock itself eventually. However, bear in mind that the problem will continue until you've had your drains jetted or rodded to remove any leftover obstructions.

What will dissolve a blocked toilet?

Baking Soda And Vinegar

Instead of creating a volcano, this vinegar and baking soda mixture will work together to loosen up the clog in almost no time. We suggest wearing rubber gloves for this. As this method creates a pretty chemical reaction, it is recommended that you use it in a toilet bowl that is not too full.

How to unblock a toilet when you can't see the blockage?

Unblocking your toilet using washing up liquid

Start by squeezing in about half a bottle of the washing up liquid, which will then sink to the bottom of the toilet bowl. Next, pour in the bucket of water to flush the washing up liquid down the u-bend. With a bit of luck, this will clear the blockage.

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