How to Unblock A Toilet: The Ultimate Plumber’s Guide

We’ve all been there: one flush, a gurgle, and then … nothing. The water rises (too much), panic sets in, and you’re suddenly panic-Googling “how to unblock a toilet”. Whether it’s your home, a friend’s place, or (worse) a public bathroom, a blocked toilet is one of life’s great equalisers.

But take a breath. We’ve flushed away the guesswork and gathered the best tips from our expert plumbers to show you how to tackle the mess with confidence. Whether you’re facing a stubborn drain blockage or just want to be ready for the next emergency, here’s everything you need to know.

Common Causes of a Blocked Toilet

Before you reach for the plunger, it helps to understand what might’ve caused the chaos in the first place. One of the most common culprits? Too much toilet paper. Especially the thick, quilted kind. It may feel luxurious, but your pipes aren’t impressed. Other usual suspects include foreign objects like kids’ toys, wipes, and feminine hygiene products. If it’s not toilet paper or waste, it shouldn’t go down there. Grease or fat can also cause blockages, as some people pour kitchen grease down the toilet—don’t. Just don’t. Finally, build-up over time, including minerals, soap scum, or older plumbing, can cause narrowing in your pipes, making clogs more likely. Being mindful about what you flush is the first step to preventing future headaches. If you’re regularly wondering how to unblock a toilet bowl, it may be time to reassess your flushing habits.

How to Unblock a Toilet: Step-by-Step Methods

Use a Plunger

It’s a classic for a reason. Choose a flange-style plunger, which is specifically designed for toilets. Place it over the drain hole, ensuring a good seal, and push down gently at first to avoid splashing. Then plunge vigorously up and down for 20–30 seconds.

Hot Water and Dish Soap

If you’re wondering how to unblock a toilet without a plunger, here’s a clever hack. Pour half a cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl, then follow with a bucket of hot (not boiling) water. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to soften the blockage. You might hear a satisfying whoosh when it works.

Use a Toilet Auger

Still blocked? It’s time to bring out the big guns. A toilet auger (a.k.a. a plumbing snake) is a flexible tool that winds down into the bowl to break up deeper clogs. Slowly feed it into the toilet and twist the handle to work through the blockage.

When to Call a Plumber

If you’ve tried every trick in the book and your toilet still isn’t cooperating—or if it’s backing up regularly—it’s time to call in the professionals. Blocked toilets can be a sign of bigger issues like tree roots in pipes or collapsed sewer lines.

How ProWater Plumbing Can Help with Blocked Toilets

At ProWater Plumbing, we deal with messy situations so you don’t have to. Whether it’s a simple blockage or something more serious, our team comes armed with the tools and expertise to get your toilet (and your day) back on track.

Need help right now? Reach out to us. We’re ready when you are.