Dealing with a Clogged Toilet Bowl: How to Empty It

A clogged toilet can be a major inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. With the right tools and techniques, you can empty a clogged toilet bowl and restore it to working order in no time.

Safety First

Before you begin, it’s important to take some safety precautions:

• Wear gloves to protect your hands from germs and chemicals.
• Open a window or turn on a fan to ventilate the bathroom.
• If the water level is high, use a bucket to bail out some of the water before starting.

Tools You’ll Need

• Plunger
• Toilet snake or auger
• Baking soda and vinegar
• Commercial drain cleaner (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plunge the Toilet

Start by plunging the toilet. This is the most common and effective way to clear a clog. Place the plunger over the drain hole and pump vigorously up and down. Repeat this process several times until the water level starts to go down.

2. Use a Toilet Snake or Auger

If plunging doesn’t work, try using a toilet snake or auger. These tools are designed to reach deep into the drain and break up clogs. Insert the snake or auger into the drain hole and crank it clockwise. Continue cranking until you feel resistance, then pull the tool back slowly to extract the clog.

3. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are natural drain cleaners that can help to dissolve clogs. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let the solution sit for 30 minutes, then flush the toilet.

4. Commercial Drain Cleaner

If the above methods fail, you can try using a commercial drain cleaner. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully. Be aware that drain cleaners can be harsh, so use them only as a last resort.

5. Remove the Toilet

In some cases, you may need to remove the toilet to clear the clog. This is a more involved process, but it may be necessary if the clog is particularly stubborn.

6. Call a Plumber

If you’re unable to clear the clog yourself, it’s time to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and expertise to quickly and safely remove the clog.

Preventing Clogs

To prevent future clogs, follow these tips:

• Avoid flushing non-flushable items, such as paper towels, tissues, and feminine hygiene products.
• Use a toilet bowl cleaner regularly to keep the drain clear.
• Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl once a month to help dissolve clogs.

The Final Say

Unclogging a toilet can be a messy task, but it’s one that you can handle yourself with the right tools and techniques. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can empty a clogged toilet bowl and restore it to working order in no time.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Why did my toilet clog?
A: Toilets can clog for a variety of reasons, including flushing non-flushable items, mineral buildup, and tree roots.

Q: How can I prevent my toilet from clogging again?
A: Avoid flushing non-flushable items, use a toilet bowl cleaner regularly, and pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl once a month.

Q: What should I do if my toilet is still clogged after trying all of the methods in this guide?
A: Call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and expertise to quickly and safely remove the clog.