5 Best Ways To Unclog a Toilet If You Don't Have a Plunger
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a toilet to clog?
Paper, primarily. “Nearly all problems of clogs in the toilet or in the drain, are somehow paper related,” Koeller says
The second most common cause of toilet clogs, according to Koeller? Flushing items that shouldn’t be flushed. Things like cotton balls, tissues, sanitary products and dental floss can catch in the pipes, wrapping around themselves and creating a massive clog.
Is a toilet plunger the easiest way to unclog a toilet?
Yes. Plungers feature a flap that creates a seal inside the toilet, taking advantage of the water pressure behind the clog to force the obstruction out of the bend and into the pipes. A toilet auger is the next best way.
“It’s crucial to emphasize that attempting to clear a toilet clog without a plunger may have limitations depending on the specific nature of the blockage,” says Khachani. “Using [alternative methods] inappropriately might worsen the situation or cause damage to the plumbing system.”
How do you unclog a toilet that’s full of water?
From personal experience: Very carefully.
The best (and cleanest) option is waiting for the water to lower on its own; most toilet clogs are slow draining. If that doesn’t work, use a bucket to remove enough water to work on the clog without splashing anything out of the toilet. (If you do have a toilet plunger handy, gently plunge the clog, slowly pushing water out of the toilet and down the drain.)
Will a toilet unclog over time?
It depends on what’s causing the clog.
If it’s simply clogged from normal use, then yes, it will eventually unclog as the waste and toilet paper dissolve, although you may not want to wait that long. But if your child flushed their Legos down the drain, it will stay clogged until you clear the blockage.
When should you call a plumber for a clogged toilet?
Most toilet clogs can be cleared by a homeowner with a plunger. But if you don’t have the inclination, the clog is particularly stubborn, or you know an unusual object is blocking the pipes, you’re often better off calling a professional.
About the Experts
John Koeller co-founded MaP (Maximum Performance), which tests toilets in independent labs in North America and China. The company evaluated almost 6,000 toilet models from 192 brands. All test results are free and available to the public.
Mehdi Khachani is the CEO and founder of JMK Plumbing in Miami, Florida. He’s licensed as certified plumbing, air conditioning and general contractor in Florida.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7p63MoqOyoJGjsbq5wKdlnKedZLmqv9NobGavka7AbsXOrmScmZ5iwq%2Bvy6ieZpldqbyquMStZJunp6F6uLXToaaurF2WerG41Keenqpf