Published 14 March 2025
Everything you need to know about unblocking a toilet
A blocked toilet can be messy, smelly and a major inconvenience. While fixing a toilet isn’t the most appealing task, knowing how to do it yourself can save you a whole lot of time, money and stress.
What equipment do you need to unblock a toilet?
With the right equipment and know-how, unblocking a toilet should be a fairly straightforward job. It can get messy, so
consider stocking up on these items before you start:
- A plunger to help remove toilet blockages.
- Rubber gloves to protect you from germs and make the job as hygienic as possible.
- A bucket or plastic blag to dispose of any obstructions.
- Towels or newspaper to protect the floor around the toilet.
How do you unblock a toilet with a plunger?
Your best course of action is to use a plunger. A plunger should be able to dislodge most blocked toilets, so it’s worth having one in case you need it.
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Step 1: Stop the water flow
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Step 2: Locate the blockage
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Step 3: Create an airtight seal
Before pulling out your plunger, you need to stop the bowl from filling up with water while you work. Lift the lid of the tank
behind the toilet and close or push down on the flapper located at the bottom center of the tank. It should look like a drain-plug attached to a chain, and will naturally seal against the drain opening. If you can’t find the flapper, just turn off the water supply to your home temporarily.
Prepare the area by putting old towels or newspapers around the toilet to help protect your floor. An extractor fan or open window will help get rid of any unpleasant smells. Once the blockage is located, put your rubber gloves on and see if you can dislodge it by hand. If you can, put it in a bucket or plastic bag and dispose of it appropriately.
If the blockage is out of sight or reach, you’re going to need the plunger. The key is to create an airtight seal around the toilet bowl. Place the plunger over the hole, push down gently on the plunger before you release. A stubborn obstruction may need more plunging force and speed to make sure it’s dislodged properly. Here’s a tip, try running the plunger under hot water before you start to make the rubber head more flexible.
How to unblock a toilet without a plunger
If you don’t have a plunger on hand, there are some other household items you can use.
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Step 1:
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Step 2:
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Step 3:
Unwind a wire coat hanger into one long piece to dislodge blockages. Curve the end slightly so that it can bend around the u-bend. By poking gently, you may be able to move the blockage but be careful not to scratch the bowl.
Sometimes blockages can be caused by a build-up of grease and fat. In this case, try combining hot water with some drain cleaner, bleach or other cleaning products you have, and pour down the bowl. Leave for 15 minutes and flush to see whether this has worked. Don’t use boiling water as this may crack the toilet bowl and cause further damage.
If neither steps are working, try pouring in one cup of baking soda and two cups of vinegar into the toilet bowl. The chemical reaction will cause a fizzing that can work to clear softer blockages.
How to prevent your toilet from blocking
The best way to fix a blocked toilet or pipe is to stop it happening in the first place. Here are some simple steps to prevent your toilet from blocking
- Avoid flushing sanitary products, nappies, wipes and cotton buds.
- Don’t use toilet paper in excess if you don’t have to.
- Close the lid of the toilet to prevent dropping items in accidentally.
- Use specialist cleaning products to prevent a build-up of limescale.
When to call a professional
If the situation gets worse and the above methods don’t work, the best action is to call a professional. You want to avoid pushing the blockage further up the pipe or even causing water damage to your property. Allianz Home Insurance covers blocked drains or pipes up to certain amounts, depending on your type of cover, so make sure to check your policy so you can stay protected.
