How to Unclog a Stubborn Toilet: Step-by-Step

By Schaubs Plumbing
on
Homeowner using plunger to unclog a toilet

How to Unclog a Stubborn Toilet: Step-by-Step 🚽✨

No one enjoys a clogged toilet—especially when it happens at the worst possible moment! Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or water rising dangerously close to the rim, unclogging a stubborn toilet can be stressful. But don’t worry, Schaubs Plumbing is here to help you tackle those emergencies with confidence.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to safely unclog your toilet using common tools like a plunger and auger, plus tips to avoid making things worse. If your toilet still refuses to cooperate, our emergency plumbing team is just a call away. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!


🚦 Safety First: What You Need to Know

Before you begin, remember: safety comes first! Here are some quick safety tips to protect yourself and your bathroom:

  • Wear rubber gloves. (Trust us, you’ll thank us later!)
  • Keep towels nearby to catch spills or splashes.
  • Remove any rugs or valuables from the floor.
  • Ventilate the room by turning on a fan or opening a window.

If you have young children or pets, keep them away from the area. And if water is flooding onto the floor, turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet immediately.


🧰 Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes the job much easier. Here’s what you should grab:

  • Sturdy plunger (preferably a flange plunger for toilets)
  • Toilet auger (also called a closet auger)
  • Rubber gloves
  • Bucket
  • Old towels or rags
  • Disinfectant cleaner

Step 1: Don’t Panic! Stop the Water Flow 🚱

If the water is rising, stay calm. Quickly lift the tank lid and push the flapper down to stop water from entering the bowl. Then, shut off the water supply valve behind the toilet.

Pro tip: If you don’t see a valve, gently lift the float (the plastic or metal ball in the tank) to stop the water flow.


Step 2: Try the Plunger Method 🪠

The classic plunger is your best friend for Unclogging Toilets!

  1. Place the plunger in the toilet bowl. Make sure it covers the drain completely.
  2. Press down slowly, then pull up sharply. Start gently to avoid splashing. Repeat 10–15 times.
  3. Check if the water drains. If yes, flush to see if the toilet is fixed. If not, repeat a few more times.

Tip: Add a bit of hot (not boiling) water and dish soap to the bowl to help loosen the clog before plunging.


Step 3: Use a Toilet Auger for Stubborn Clogs 🌀

If the plunger doesn’t work, grab a toilet auger. This tool is designed for clogs that are deeper in the drain.

  1. Insert the auger’s end into the toilet drain.
  2. Gently turn the handle clockwise to work the cable down the pipe.
  3. Stop if you feel resistance. This means you’ve reached the clog. Gently push and twist.
  4. Pull the auger out and flush. The clog should be gone.

Warning: Don’t use chemical drain cleaners—they can damage your pipes and toilet!


Step 4: Clean Up and Disinfect 🧼

After unclogging, disinfect the toilet and any surfaces that got splashed. Wash your hands (and gloves!) with soap and hot water.


Troubleshooting Tips & Persistent Clogs 🕵️‍♂️

Still stuck? Here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Multiple clogs: If more than one drain is blocked, you might have a bigger issue in your main drain line.
  • Strange noises: Gurgling sounds from other fixtures could signal a deeper problem that needs professional Leak Detection or Pipe Repair.
  • Frequent clogs: If your toilet keeps clogging, you may need Preventative Maintenance or a full Toilet Repair.

When to Call Schaubs Plumbing 🛑

Sometimes, a clog is just too stubborn or you’re dealing with backflow, severe water damage, or repeated problems. Don’t risk it—call the experts for fast, friendly Emergency Plumbing.

Call Schaubs Plumbing if you notice:

  • Water backing up from the toilet or tub
  • Strong sewage smells
  • Overflowing water even after shutting off the valve
  • You’ve tried plunging and augering with no success

Our team is trained in Unclogging Toilets, Drain Cleaning, Leak Detection, Pipe Repair, and more. We’ll protect your home and peace of mind 24/7!


Why Choose Schaubs Plumbing? 🛠️💙

  • Rapid emergency plumbing response, day or night
  • Professional, friendly plumbers you can trust in your home
  • Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
  • Experts in Toilet Repair, Leak Repair, Bathroom Plumbing, Kitchen Plumbing, Sink Repair, Boiler Repair, Water Filtration Systems, Garbage Disposal Repair, Fixture Installation, Water Heater Installation, Preventative Maintenance, Pipe Installation, Repiping, and Water Heater Repair
  • Serving your neighborhood with pride

Don’t let a clog ruin your day!


Call the Toilet Unclogging Pros Near You! 📞

If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or worried about water damage, Schaubs Plumbing is here to help. Our emergency plumbing experts will get your bathroom back to normal—fast.

Call now for rapid toilet repair and emergency service!
Reach us anytime at  1-877-919-9920 .

Stay calm, stay safe—and let Schaubs Plumbing handle the mess so you don’t have to!


Schaubs Plumbing: Your trusted partner for Emergency Plumbing, Toilet Repair, Drain Cleaning, Leak Detection, Pipe Repair, Water Heater Installation, Backflow Testing, and Water Pressure Issues near you.


🛁🛠️🚽

Need plumbing help fast? Call Schaubs Plumbing now! 1-877-919-9920