The proper type of plunger for unclogging a toilet is a toilet plunger, also called a flange plunger. A toilet plunger's cup is taller than the cup on a bell-shaped sink plunger. In addition, a toilet plunger has a sleeve-like extension, or flange, on the bottom of the cup.
Flange Plunger
A flange or toilet plunger has a similar cup to the sink plunger. However, a toilet plunger also has a soft rubber flap called a flange that folds out from inside the cup. This flange fits well over toilet drains, making it easy to form the necessary suction to clear a clog.
Start by using a plunger, which creates a vacuum to force clogs out of drains. Heavy-duty plungers with either ball-shaped heads or rubber flanges on the bottom are much more effective than conventional suction cup-shaped plungers. Make sure the toilet bowl contains enough water to submerge the head of the plunger.
To clear a toilet clog, the auger is inserted into toilet and twisted by hand, or by machine, to help break up the obstruction. Typically, an auger or drain snake would be used if a plunger is not resolving the clog.
One of the strongest substances for unclogging a toilet is a commercial drain cleaner specifically designed for toilet clogs. These cleaners typically contain powerful chemicals that dissolve organic matter and stubborn blockages.
A vigorous plunge could send water flying up out of the toilet bowl. The best way to avoid this messy scenario is to start with a gentle plunge. Slowly push the plunger down, allowing the air to escape from the cup. Once the plunger is fully submerged, give it a few firm pumps.
Sometimes a plunger is not enough to clear a clog. There are several reasons why your toilet or sink might still not drain, no matter how much you plunge. The clog might adhere too firmly to the drain to remove by plunging without damaging the pipes. A solid obstruction might block the drain.
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.
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.
The plunger uses the force of the water, not the air, to clear the obstruction. Once the plunger has created a good seal, push down and pull up a few times without breaking the seal. Then, flush. If the water does not go down, open the tank again and make sure the flapper is closed, so the water does not overflow.
A cup plunger is much less effective for clearing toilet clogs, but it can sometimes work. Toilet auger: If plunging doesn't work, try clearing it with a toilet auger. A toilet or closet auger has a telescoping metal tube with a crank handle on one end and a cable running inside.
If Your Toilet Keeps Clogging, Here's Why. The Short Answer Is: A toilet can repeatedly clog due to several reasons, including inadequate flushing power, an obstructed trap or drainpipe, or an accumulation of non-flushable materials like toilet paper, hygiene products, or foreign objects.
Yes, a toilet can unclog itself over time, but it depends on what is causing the blockage. If the clog is made up of water-soluble materials, like toilet paper or fecal matter, then eventually they will begin dissolving if you give them enough time.
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.
Add 1/2 cup baking soda directly into the toilet bowl water surrounding the blocked toilet. Slowly pour 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar down the inside of the bowl to avoid splashes. Stand back as a fizzy foam reaction occurs, potentially breaking apart paper. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush it repeatedly.
Keep a tight seal over the drain as you plunge. If the plunger flange seems stiff, pour hot water over it to soften the rubber before plunging. Start with a gentle push to get the air out of the cup. Air trapped in the cup compresses and reduces plunger effectiveness.
You might be using the plunger wrong
First, make sure you're using a flange plunger and that there is water covering the plunger itself. If the water level is low, the plunger may not seal properly or achieve the suction it needs to be effective. Pour water into the toilet if you need to.
Run your plunger under the hot tap first to soften the rubber - this will make the plunger more effective. Place the rubber end of the plunger firmly over the toilet bowl to create a vacuum. Once in place, grip the handle and plunge vigorously, taking care not to splash any water on yourself or the floor.
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.
Shut off the water supply valve. Place the flange of a toilet plunger firmly into the drain hole in the bottom of the toilet bowl. Plunge with an up-and-down motion to remove most water from the bowl. This should also force out any clog.