Tools and Materials
Materials
- Dish Soap or Shampoo
- Baking Soda
Vinegar
Hot Water
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How to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger
Having a clogged toilet is a hassle no one wants to deal with. If you don’t have a plunger or the water is too high to use one, you’ll have to find another way to unclog the toilet. Here are some ways to get the job done with what you already have lying around the house.
You may want to wear gloves and an apron to avoid splashes.
Use Dish Soap or Shampoo
You can pour dish soap or shampoo into the toilet to lubricate the walls and pipes. After pouring in the soap, add hot water and wait 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the severity of the clog. The grease-cutting properties of the soap can break down some of the solids causing the blockage.
Try a Baking Soda Mixture
Baking soda and vinegar create a chemical reaction that can unclog the toilet. Start by adding the baking soda to the toilet bowl. Make sure you have enough water — the bowl should be at least halfway full — or pour in more water if needed. Next, using a circular motion, add the vinegar to the toilet bowl. If the clog isn’t resolved, repeat the process and wait overnight.
Add Hot Water
Hot water is a good option because the heat and the force of the water can dislodge the blockage. It’s important to note that the water shouldn’t be boiling. If the water is too hot, it can cause the porcelain to crack, which is much more costly to fix than a clogged toilet.
Use a Wire Hanger
If you have an extra wire hanger lying around, you can use pliers or wire cutters to create a makeshift drain snake. Simply unbend the hanger and feed it down the drain, using a little force to remove the blockage. Be careful not to scratch the porcelain if there are rough edges on the wire.