My Toilet Is Stuck Still After Using the Plunger

Overfilling is the most common reason for toilet clogs.

A clogged toilet is a common plumbing problem in most households. Toys down the toilet, excessive amounts of toilet paper and other "debris" can cause clogs, especially if the pipes are already full of gunk or minerals from hard water. A good plunging is often enough to solve clogs in a toilet, but if the choke in the line is major, you may need to bring out the big guns. A plumber's auger will solve almost any clog in a toilet.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Closet auger

Instructions

1. Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from sewer water.

2. Insert the coiled end of the closet auger into the toilet drain hole. Start unreeling the auger by turning the handle counterclockwise. The coil will extend down into the toilet. As you unwind, push on the auger to feed it into the drain hole.

3. Continue turning the handle of the closet auger, extending it down into the toilet pipes until you reach the obstruction.

4. Turn the auger handle clockwise, then counterclockwise, a few times to break through the obstruction.

5. Wind the closet auger back in, turning counterclockwise, to bring the obstruction out of the pipe. Remove it by hand if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Closet augers are available from most hardware stores. Power augers, which run on power and turn in the toilet mechanically, are also available to rent from hardware or equipment rental stores.

References

• This Old House: Clear Any Clogged Drain
• The Family Handyman: How to Fix a Clogged Toilet