How to Unclog a Toilet with a Toilet Plunger

A plunger is a critical piece of equipment in a home repair kit.

Whether your clog is the result of too much toilet paper or poor design, the first and best defense against a clog is a plunger and a bucket. If your toilet is full, but not overflowing, the first step is waiting. Toilet paper and waste will dissolve on their own in a few hours. If you can wait until some of the water seeps away around the clog, use your bucket to pour a rush of water into the bowl to see if you can dislodge the clog. If all else fails, grab your heavy-duty plunger.

Things You'll Need

• Wire hanger
• Bucket
• Can
• Newspaper

Instructions

1. Identify what caused the clog, if it's something natural and organic you're in the clear. If a small toy or hairbrush has dropped in the toilet use another method to clear the clog, such as a wire hanger bent into a hook.

2. Bail excess water out of the toilet with a can and pour it into a bucket. Put the plunger into the toilet with the cup covering the outlet.

3. Press down forcefully but slowly and pull up on the plunger quickly to release the blockage back into the toilet bowl. Repeat 20 to 30 strokes.

4. Remove the plunger and lay it on the newspaper. Pour some water into the bowl. If the water level doesn't rise, the clog is cleared. Attempt to flush the toilet. Repeat with the plunger if needed.

References

• Iowa State Extension: You Can Make Simple Home Repairs
• Ask The Builder; Clogged Toilets; Tim Carter