7 Innovative Ways to Unclog a Toilet Without Calling a Plumber

If you’re dealing with a clogged toilet, calling in a plumber can be expensive. But there are many simple DIY ways to deal with the problem using common household items!

Start by rinsing the toilet bowl with hot water. It should be as hot as possible, but not boiling, as this could crack the porcelain.

1. Borax

A clogged toilet can leave you with nowhere to turn, especially if a plunger doesn’t work. Luckily, there are several DIY methods you can try to clear out even the most stubborn of blockages without the need for a professional plumber.

Toss in a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to create a fizzing reaction that may dislodge whatever is causing the clog. Then, use a wire coat hanger to prod the blockage further (be sure to wear rubber gloves so you don’t accidentally scratch up your porcelain). Be sure to shut off the water supply before proceeding with this method.

2. Plunger

The next time you notice a slow drain, try putting your plunger to work. Pump the handle up and down vigorously to create pressure that should dislodge the clog. You may need to repeat this method several times to dislodge stubborn clogs.

If the clog persists, you can use hot water and dish soap to loosen it up. Start by filling a bucket with hot water (not boiling) and then pour it into the toilet bowl from waist height. The hot water should help dissolve any organic materials that are causing the blockage.

3. Dish Soap

You probably have a bottle of dish soap in your kitchen for everyday cleaning, but it could also help unclog your toilet. “Make sure the bottle has an air hole at the bottom,” Sokolowski says, and wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from potential germs and debris.

Cover the opening with your thumb and insert the nozzle of the bottle into the toilet drain, she adds. Then, quickly release and squeeze the bottle; this creates a burst of pressure that may dislodge your clog.

For a less-synthetic option, try the dynamic duo of baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda into the toilet, followed by two cups of vinegar to create a chemical reaction that fizzes.

4. Hot Water

If your plunger is nowhere to be found and you have a lot of time on your hands, try using hot water to break up the clog. Just fill a bucket with hot water (not boiling, as this could crack the porcelain) and slowly pour it into the toilet bowl until you start to see the clog dissipate or air bubbles appear.

You can also use a wire coat hanger and some muscle in combination with the hot water to help fish out any clogs. Unravel the hanger and, while wearing rubber gloves, slowly poke it into the clog until you see the clog disappear or water starts draining.

5. Hot Water and Dish Soap

If the first step doesn’t work, try pouring some hot water into your toilet, along with a bit of dish soap. This creates a sudsy mix that can lubricate and loosen clogs, says Mock. After the mixture sits for a bit, flush the toilet.

You’ll also want to remove as much of the water in the bowl as possible, and make sure your bathroom is well-ventilated to avoid unpleasant smells and fumes while you work. You’ll need a large plastic bottle of hot water, liquid soap and a bucket or container to hold the water.

6. Hot Water and Shampoo

Using hot water to break up soap scum and gunk can save you money on chemical drain cleaners. Enzymes work better in warm environments, so pour boiling water down a drain first to heat it up. Pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain can also dislodge minor blockages.

Keeping basic tools like a plunger, a hand-held snake and a wrench handy can help you repair small issues and avoid costly plumber bills. Shutting off the water can prevent leaks, and locating and repairing shut-off valves can stop water leaks before they cause major damage.

7. Wet-Dry Vacuum

For clogged toilets that are obstructed by objects like toys, paper towels, or small debris, it may be best to use a wet/dry vacuum instead of a plunger. Just make sure that the hose is positioned properly, and you’re ready to suck away whatever is causing the blockage.

Caustic soda, also known as lye or sodium hydroxide, is an effective solution for removing stubborn drain clogs. It can be dangerous to your skin and eyes, however, so be sure to wear protective equipment and follow the instructions carefully.

Begin by pouring a cup of baking soda into the clogged drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. This will cause a fizzing reaction that can break down many types of plumbing build-up.