If your toilet is clogged, there are several things you can try before calling a professional plumber. Here are some methods you can use to unclog your toilet:
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Flush with Hot Water: If you suspect the clog is not too bad, try heating up a pot of hot water. Once the water is hot, pour it from the waist level into the bowl. Pouring water from a taller height will help dislodge clogs. Do not use boiling water in your toilet as it can melt or crack your toilet bowl.
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Try Dish Soap: Pour roughly 1/4 cup of dish soap into the bowl and follow with a generous amount of hot water. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, try flushing your toilet. Dish soap should act as a lubricant and loosen the clog.
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Mix Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar down the toilet drain. When the vinegar and baking soda combine, the natural chemical reaction should help break up the clog. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes before flushing the toilet.
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Use Plastic Wrap: Put a sheet of plastic wrap on top of the toilet seat. Pull it tautly so its stuck on firmly. Then, flush your toilet. Plastic wrap should create a vacuum similar to what a plunger does. Youll notice it inflate or bubble as the toilet flushes, this is completely normal and means its working.
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Use a Plunger: Use a plunger to create suction and push the clog through the drain. Make sure there is enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger. If the water level is too low, add more water. Plunge up and down vigorously for several minutes. If the clog is stubborn, you may need to use a drain snake to unclog it.
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Use Bleach: Pour 2-3 cups of bleach into the toilet bowl and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, pour one cup of powdered soap and wait another 10-15 minutes before flushing the toilet. This method is more efficient for a very clogged toilet.
If none of these methods work, you may need to call a professional plumber to tackle the clog for you.