How to Plunge a Toilet Properly (Step-by-Step Guide)

Toilet clogs are one of the most common household issues, but they don’t have to cause panic. With the right tools and techniques, you can often resolve the problem quickly and successfully. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to properly plunge a toilet and what to do when a plunger isn’t enough. 

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before jumping into the steps, it’s important to gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and efficient plunging process. Here’s a list of what you should have on hand:

• Rubber Flange Plunger: A high-quality plunger with a flange (the rubber flap extending from the bottom) is ideal. It creates a tighter seal, making plunging more effective.
• Rubber Gloves: It’s always a good idea to protect your hands while dealing with any plumbing task.
• Towels or Rags: Keep these nearby to wipe up any splashes and prevent water damage to your bathroom floor.
• Bucket of Warm Water: Sometimes, warm water can help loosen the clog before you begin plunging.

Now that you have your supplies, let’s move on to the step-by-step guide for plunging your toilet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Plunge a Toilet

1. Assess the Situation

Before diving in, check the water level in the toilet bowl. If the water is too high, consider using a bucket to carefully scoop some out to avoid overflow. If the water is low, add enough to submerge the plunger’s rubber cup completely.

2. Position the Plunger

Place the plunger directly over the toilet’s drain hole, making sure that the rubber flange is fully extended and creating a seal. The key to proper plunging is creating and maintaining a strong seal between the plunger and the drain.

3. Use Gentle Pressure First

Start with slow, controlled plunges to eliminate any initial air trapped in the plunger. Once you’ve established a good seal, begin plunging more forcefully. Push down and then pull up without breaking the seal. Repeat this motion several times, aiming for a strong vacuum effect that will loosen the clog.

4. Increase Pressure Gradually

After a few gentle plunges, increase the pressure and speed. Continue plunging for 15-20 seconds, then pause to see if the water level changes. If the water begins to drain, the clog is likely dislodged.

5. Test the Flush

Once you see the water recede, try flushing the toilet. If the water drains normally, the clog has been successfully cleared. If not, repeat the plunging process a few more times. In some cases, it may take several rounds of plunging to fully remove the blockage.

What to Do When the Plunger Doesn’t Work

Sometimes, a plunger alone isn’t enough to clear a stubborn clog. If you’ve tried multiple plunging attempts without success, don’t worry—there are a few other strategies you can try:

Try Hot Water and Dish Soap

Pour a few cups of hot (but not boiling) water into the toilet bowl, followed by a generous squirt of dish soap. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to soften the clog, then try plunging again. This method can often help break down debris and make plunging more productive.

Use a Plumbing Snake (Drain Auger)

If the clog is deep within the toilet’s drain, consider using a plumbing snake. Insert the snake into the drain and slowly rotate it to break up the obstruction. While this tool requires a bit more skill, it can effectively clear tough clogs that a plunger can’t reach.

Consider a Professional Plumber

If your toilet is still clogged after trying these DIY solutions, it’s time to call a professional. Persisting with more aggressive tactics could damage your toilet or plumbing system. Professional plumbers have specialized tools and expertise to handle tough clogs safely and successfully.

For residents in Kansas and Missouri, Anthony Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric offers fast and reliable plumbing services to help resolve stubborn clogs and other plumbing issues. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment.

How to Prevent Toilet Clogs in the Future

Taking proactive steps to prevent clogs is much easier (and cleaner) than dealing with a blocked toilet. A clogged toilet can cause inconvenience, unsanitary conditions, and even damage to your plumbing system if it occurs frequently. By implementing a few simple practices and making some adjustments, you can keep your toilet functioning correctly and reduce the risk of clogs. Here are some tips to maintain your bathroom plumbing in good condition:

Use Less Toilet Paper

Excessive use of toilet paper is one of the most common causes of clogs. While it’s easy to reach for a large wad, consider using only as much as you need. If you find yourself needing to use more toilet paper than usual, try flushing the toilet midway through the process. This will prevent the bowl from becoming overloaded and assure the paper has a chance to flow through the pipes without causing a blockage. For families with young children, educating them on proper toilet paper use is helpful to avoid accidental overuse.

Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items

Despite being labeled as “flushable,” many items, such as wipes and certain hygiene products, are not designed to disintegrate like toilet paper. Items like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, and dental floss are notorious for clogging toilets and should never be flushed. These products tend to expand in water, creating a tough obstruction that can lead to serious plumbing issues. Instead, keep a trash bin in your bathroom for non-flushable items and make it a household rule to only flush toilet paper.

Install a Water-Saving Toilet

Older toilets typically use more water per flush, which can sometimes lead to clogs due to excess water pressure and turbulence. Modern, water-saving toilets are designed to use less water while maintaining a strong flush that removes waste. These toilets use about 1.6 gallons per flush compared to older models that use up to 3.5 gallons or more. By switching to a water-efficient model, you can reduce the risk of clogs, save on your water bill, and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.

Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

In addition to monitoring what gets flushed, you should also be cautious about what goes down the drain in other parts of your home. Sometimes, bathroom sink and shower drains can feed into the same line as your toilet, so avoid washing large hair clumps or solid debris down these drains. A blockage in one part of the plumbing system can cause issues in another, leading to a full-blown clog that’s more difficult to address.

Conduct Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your plumbing system in top shape. Minor issues like slow-draining toilets, low water levels, or gurgling sounds can be early warning signs of a bigger problem. Scheduling routine plumbing inspections can help catch potential issues before they escalate into major plumbing failures. Consider having your drains professionally cleaned to remove any buildup and ensure smooth water flow. Anthony offers comprehensive plumbing services, including preventive maintenance, to keep your system running properly and avoid inconvenient clogs.

Consider Using Septic-Safe Products

If your home uses a septic system, it’s even more important to be mindful of what goes down the toilet. Septic systems are more sensitive to clogs, and even some types of toilet paper can cause issues if they aren’t labeled as septic-safe. Using only septic-friendly paper and avoiding harsh chemicals will help preserve the health of your system and reduce the risk of clogs or backups.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of clogs and keep your plumbing system in optimal condition. A few preventive measures today can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. 

Final Thoughts: Know When to Call in the Experts

While plunging a toilet is a skill every homeowner should have, sometimes the problem is bigger than a simple DIY fix. If you’re dealing with recurring clogs or suspect a more serious issue, it’s best to bring in the professionals. Anthony Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric proudly serves the Kansas and Missouri regions, offering quality service from experienced plumbers. Whether it’s a routine clog or a complex plumbing issue, we’re here to help.

Schedule an appointment online or contact us directly for assistance with any of your plumbing needs.