A blocked toilet is one of the more stressful household plumbing problems, but most blockages clear with a plunger and a bit of patience, without needing a plumber. This guide covers how to unblock a toilet safely and what to do if a plunger alone does not work.
How Do You Unblock a Toilet?
To unblock a toilet, use a flange plunger to create a tight seal over the outlet, then push and pull firmly in a steady rhythm for 15 to 20 seconds before flushing to check if the blockage has cleared. If plunging does not work, a toilet auger can reach further into the pipe to clear a deeper blockage.
What You Will Need
- A flange plunger, which has an extra rubber flap for a better seal in a toilet bowl than a standard sink plunger
- Rubber gloves
- A toilet auger, for deeper blockages
- Old towels, to protect the floor
- A bucket, for bailing out excess water if the bowl is very full
How to Unblock a Toilet: Step by Step
1. Stop Flushing
If the bowl is already close to overflowing, do not flush again, since this risks the water and contents spilling onto the floor. If the water level is very high, bail some out with a small container into a bucket before starting.
2. Position the Plunger
Place the flange plunger over the outlet hole at the base of the bowl, angling it to create a full, tight seal. Push down gently first to release trapped air before beginning a firm plunging motion.
3. Plunge With a Steady Rhythm
Push and pull the plunger firmly for 15 to 20 seconds, keeping the seal intact throughout. The pulling motion is often what dislodges the blockage, not just the pushing.
4. Test With a Flush
Once you feel resistance ease, test by pouring a jug of water into the bowl rather than flushing immediately, to check the water drains normally before flushing fully.
5. Repeat if Needed
If the first attempt does not clear it, repeat the process a few more times. Many blockages take two or three rounds of plunging before they fully clear.
6. Try a Toilet Auger for Deeper Blockages
If plunging is not working, feed a toilet auger into the outlet and turn the handle to work the cable further into the pipe, which can reach and break up blockages beyond the reach of a plunger.
What Causes a Blocked Toilet?
Excess toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitary products, and other items that do not break down in water are the most common causes. Wet wipes in particular, even those labelled flushable, are a leading cause of blockages, since they do not disintegrate the way toilet paper does.
When to Call a Plumber
If plunging and an auger both fail to clear the blockage, or the toilet backs up repeatedly, it is worth calling a plumber rather than escalating with chemical drain products, which are not designed for toilets and can be ineffective or damaging. A persistent blockage in the same spot can also point to a problem further down the waste pipe that needs professional attention.
If you are dealing with other plumbing issues around the home, our guide to unblocking a drain covers a related but separate common household job. If your toilet keeps running rather than blocking, our guide to fixing a running toilet covers that fix instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to unblock a toilet without a plunger?
Pouring hot, though not boiling, water combined with washing-up liquid into the bowl and leaving it to sit for a few minutes can sometimes loosen a blockage, though a flange plunger remains the most reliable tool for most blockages.
Can I use a drain unblocking chemical in a toilet?
It is not generally recommended, since standard drain chemicals are formulated for sinks and are often ineffective or unsuitable for toilet blockages, which are usually caused by solid material rather than grease.
Why does my toilet keep blocking?
Repeated blockages often point to flushing items that do not break down properly, such as wet wipes, or an underlying issue further down the waste pipe that may need professional investigation.
Is it safe to plunge a toilet myself?
Yes, plunging is one of the safest and most common DIY fixes for a blocked toilet, provided you wear gloves and take care not to splash water onto the floor.
How do I know if I need a plumber for a blocked toilet?
If plunging and a toilet auger both fail to clear the blockage, or the problem recurs frequently, it is time to call a plumber to investigate further down the waste system.
If a blockage is accompanied by sewage backing up into other fixtures, such as a bath or sink, stop attempting a DIY fix and contact a plumber promptly, since this can indicate a more serious drainage issue.
About the Author
Spire Homes Editorial Team researches and writes practical, UK focused home improvement guides covering renovation planning, financing, interior design, and property maintenance. Our content is reviewed for accuracy and updated as guidance changes.
