A clogged toilet can be a stressful and messy situation.

most clogs are easy to resolve with the right tools and techniques. Follow this step-by-step guide to get your toilet back in working order. Sometimes it can be a clog and other times your water just wont stop running. We all know how annoying that can be. So for each of these we also have a couple of quick videos you can watch to fix these problems in no time. Did you know that a lot of plungers sold are actually for sinks? Most people dont.

Step 1: Don’t Flush Again

Avoid Overflowing: If the water isn’t draining, resist the urge to flush again. This can cause the bowl to overflow.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

You may need:

• Dish soap or a baking soda and vinegar mixture (optional)

• A toilet plunger (preferably with a flange) Most without are actually for sinks. If you’ve used a flangeless plunger you already know how brutal they are.

• A toilet auger (for stubborn clogs)

• Rubber gloves

• A bucket and towels (for cleanup)

Step 3: Prep the Area

Protect the Floor: Place towels or rags around the base of the toilet to catch any spills.

Wear Gloves: Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands and maintain hygiene.

Step 4: Use a Plunger

Position the Plunger: Insert the plunger into the toilet bowl, ensuring the flange fits snugly into the drain hole.

Create a Seal: Press down firmly to create a seal around the drain.

Plunge with Force: Push and pull the plunger vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The suction and pressure should dislodge most clogs.

Check the Drain: Remove the plunger and see if the water drains. If not, repeat the process a few more times.

Step 5: Try a Dish Soap Solution (Optional)

Pour Dish Soap: Add about 1/4 cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl.

Add Hot Water: Carefully pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water into the bowl.

Wait and Test: Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to help break down the clog. Then, try flushing.

Step 6: Use a Toilet Auger

Insert the Auger: Slide the auger’s coil into the drain hole.

Turn the Handle: Crank the handle to break up or snag the clog.

Remove the Auger: Pull out the auger carefully, bringing the clog with it if possible.

Flush: Test the toilet to see if the clog is cleared.

Step 7: Clean Up

Dispose of Waste: Properly dispose of any waste or debris removed from the toilet.

Sanitize Tools: Clean your plunger, auger, and any other tools with disinfectant.

Wipe Surfaces: Sanitize the toilet and surrounding area.

When to Contact Your Landlord

If you’ve tried plunging and using a toilet auger but the clog persists, there may be a larger issue with the plumbing system. Contact your landlord and let them know the steps you’ve taken to fix the problem.

By following this guide, you can usually resolve toilet clogs quickly and efficiently, avoiding unnecessary stress and potential damage.