A clogged toilet is something no one wants to be dealing with. It’s even worse when you live in a home with more people than toilets. While a simple clog is something the average person can deal with, what happens when you realize the home you’re in doesn’t have a plunger?
If you find yourself in this predicament, here are some handy ways to unclog a toilet without a plunger.
Use Dish Soap and Hot Water
Your dish soap can be used for a lot more than getting your plates nice and clean. Using a mixture of hot water and dish soap is one of the safest ways to remedy a toilet clog.
First, remove any standing water in your toilet and dump it down the sink or tub. Next, start by boiling water and pour it down the toilet drain. Sometimes this alone can loosen whatever blockage is clogging the toilet.
There are times when hot water just won’t do the trick. This is when it’s time to grab the dish soap. Start by squeezing about ¼ cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl. Give the soap some time to work its way down the drain and into your pipes—only about 10 to 15 minutes.
Then it’s time to get some hot water from your shower or sink. You do not want boiling water for this task. Pour the hot water into the toilet bowl and let everything sit for another 10 to 15 minutes. Try to flush and see if that works to get everything flowing again.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Sometimes, there’s nothing more satisfying than a nice fizz. Whether it’s a carbonated soda or cleaning products getting the job done right, there’s always something so rewarding about it.
Now, you’re probably wondering why we’re talking about your toilet and carbonation. No, we’re not suggesting you try the latest TikTok trend of putting food in your toilet. We’re talking about unclogging your toilet with baking soda and vinegar.
When you don’t have a plunger on hand, simply go to your pantry. Baking soda and vinegar can be used to break down blockages in your sink, so why not your toilet? Start by removing any standing water in your toilet.
Next, pour one cup of baking soda in your toilet bowl. Chase it with a cup of vinegar and watch the magic happen. After the fizzing has died down, let the mixture sit for a half an hour. When the 30 minutes are up, boil some water and pour it into the toilet bowl.
This mixture, with the hot water, can usually be enough to dislodge any small clogs.
Use a Brush if You Don’t Have a Plunger
While using a toilet to remove a clog from your toilet may seem rather unpleasant, it is a safe alternative when you are all out of plungers.
Grab your toilet brush and insert with the bristles angled down the drain. Pump up and down multiple times in a quick motion. This should quickly dislodge any obstruction.
How to Prevent a Toilet Clog
While there is no fool-proof method to prevent all toilet clogs, there are several preventative measures that may keep your plumbing troubles at bay.
If your home is notorious for having low water pressure, always flush twice. Refrain from placing anything within your toilet other than human waste or toilet paper. Your toilet is not a trash can. Don’t put anything like cotton swabs, dental floss, or diapers in the toilet.
Know When to Call on Professionals
If you have attempted each of these DIY remedies and continue to experience plumbing problems consistently, it’s time to consider hiring a professional. While this may be an unwanted investment, remember that avoiding plumbing troubles can lead to even greater issues down the road.
As always, we invite you to call on your neighborhood plumbing professionals at Adeedo!
