A blocked toilet and no plunger in sight is a stressful combination, especially if the water is rising. You can often clear it with things you already have at home.
This guide starts with the gentlest method and works up. These methods suit clogs from toilet paper and waste. If a toy or other solid object went down, skip to the section on calling a plumber.
⚡ At a glance
First, Stop It From Overflowing
🚫 Stop flushing
If the bowl is full, another flush can send water over the rim.
🚰 Turn off the water
Mr. Rooter says to shut off the toilet’s water supply first. The valve is usually on the wall behind the toilet.
🪣 Bail out extra water
If the bowl is close to overflowing, remove some water into a bucket to make room.
🧤 Get ready
Wear rubber gloves, and keep old towels nearby.
Dish Soap and Hot Water
The easiest place to start
- Pour about half a cup of dish soap into the bowl.
- Heat a gallon of water until it’s very hot but not boiling.
- Pour the water into the bowl.
- Wait about 15 minutes, then flush once.
If the water level is dropping, the clog is starting to clear. Sources vary on timing: This Old House says 15 minutes, and Mr. Rooter says up to 20.
Why this works: The soap acts as a lubricant, and the hot water helps break up waste and paper.
Pro tip: Mr. Rooter’s test for temperature: it should be about as hot as you could comfortably drink as tea.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Try this if soap didn’t work
- If the bowl is full, remove some water first, because the mixture fizzes and can overflow.
- Add 1 cup of baking soda.
- Slowly add 2 cups of vinegar.
- Leave it to fizz for about 30 minutes.
- Add a gallon of hot, not boiling, water, then flush.
A Protected Wire Hanger
For a clog close to the drain opening
- Straighten a wire coat hanger.
- Tape a rag over the end so it doesn’t scratch the porcelain.
- Put on long disposable gloves.
- Feed it into the drain and work it in a circle against the blockage.
If you can’t feel anything, the clog may be out of reach, so move on to the next method.
A Drain Snake
The strongest option you can do yourself
- Feed the drain snake, also called a plumber’s auger, into the drain until you feel resistance.
- Turn the handle clockwise while pushing gently.
- Pull it back out slowly, then flush.
Pro tip: Advance slowly, and pull back once the hook catches the clog.
What About Chemical Drain Cleaners?
💡 This Old House advises using them sparingly, following the label and wearing gloves. Overuse can damage pipes over time, and if a chemical fails, the residue left in the pipe can injure a plumber later. If one doesn’t work, don’t add more. Move to a tool or call a professional.
Enzyme cleaners are a gentler option. This Old House describes them as generally safer for pipes and suggests leaving them overnight before flushing.
When to Call a Plumber
- None of these methods shifted the clog.
- A solid object may be stuck.
- Your toilet clogs often.
- More than one toilet is clogged. This points to a drain line or venting problem, not just the toilet.
Next Time: Use a Plunger Properly
This Old House says a plunger should be your first choice, ideally a skirt-cupped one shaped for toilet bowls. It also says many people push harder when they should be drawing the plunger back, which helps break up the clog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can boiling water crack a toilet?
Yes. Both This Old House and Mr. Rooter warn against it. Use very hot water that is below boiling.
How long should I wait before flushing?
About 15 to 20 minutes for dish soap and hot water, and about 30 minutes for baking soda and vinegar.
Should I turn off the water first?
Mr. Rooter recommends it, because it helps prevent an overflow. Keep the valve within reach while you work.
Will a wire hanger scratch my toilet?
It can, so tape a rag over the end and work gently.
Why do my toilets keep clogging?
This Old House says mineral buildup from hard water can narrow pipes. If clogs keep happening, have a plumber inspect them.
Did your toilet clear?
Tell us which method worked, and help the next person.