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Discover this effective and safe DIY soap method to clear your clogged toilet.
We've all faced the dreaded clogged toilet scenario: water rising to the brim, panic setting in, and frantically searching for a plunger. However, with dish soap, you can swiftly resolve the situation and prevent a potential flood. Learn how to break up toilet clogs quickly and prevent overflow using this simple hack.
Procedure
Using Hot Water
Shut off the toilet's valve if it's overflowing. Before adding hot water to the bowl, stop the flow of water by turning the valve behind the toilet clockwise. Apply a little WD-40 if the valve is stuck.
- After unclogging the toilet, turn the valve counterclockwise to restore water flow.
Heat a 1 gallon (3.8 L) pot of water. Start by placing a water-filled pot on high heat. Cover it and wait until it's heated, but avoid boiling (approximately 5 minutes). Remove from heat if it steams or exceeds 120 °F (49 °C).
- Pouring boiling water into the toilet can damage the wax ring or bowl. Heat the water sufficiently without boiling.
- If concerned about temperature, use hot tap water.
Pour the hot water into the toilet bowl. Carefully pour without exceeding the rim, avoiding spills. Hot water might loosen minor clogs entirely.
- For heavier clogs, pour in stages, allowing water to recede before adding more.
Utilizing Dish Soap
Pour approximately 8 ounces (230 g) of dish soap into the water. The soap will sink due to its density, aiding in breaking up the clog.
- Preferably, use grease-fighting dish soap for better results.
Allow the soap to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Let the soap dissolve the clog at the bowl's base. Observe a gradual decrease in water level, indicating progress.
- If soap alone doesn't resolve the clog, proceed to the next step for a thorough solution.
Add another gallon (3.8 L) of hot water to the toilet. Fill a pot with hot water, ensuring it's heated but not boiling. Alternatively, use hot tap water for immediate use.
Continue pouring water into the toilet and allow it to settle. After 2 to 3 applications, flush the toilet to verify if the clog is cleared. Each gallon (3.8 L) of hot water should sit for approximately 20 minutes.
- If the toilet remains clogged overnight, attempt plunging in the morning or consider using a toilet drain snake.
Plunge the toilet again if the clog persists. Even after attempting dish soap, plunging may still be effective. Position the plunger directly over the drain hole and apply firm, rapid pressure. After several plunges, lift sharply for suction.
- Warm the plunger under hot water for 30 seconds before use to soften the rubber.
- If unsuccessful, contact a plumber for assistance.
Essentials
- 1 gallon (3.8 L) bucket
- Pot
- Dish soap
- Plunger (optional)
Helpful Tips
Important Warnings
- Avoid plunging the toilet immediately after using drain cleaner.
- Always thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap after toilet maintenance.
