Why Toilets Clog: An Overview of The Different Methods For Unclogging A Toilet

A clogged toilet always seems to happen at the worst time—right before guests arrive or in the middle of the night. If not handled correctly, not only can it cause an inconvenient mess, but it can also turn into a plumbing nightmare. 

Knowing how to fix a clogged toilet in Renton, WA, can save you stress and wasted time applying haphazard solutions.

Common Reasons Toilets Clog

Most blockages can be traced back to a few common culprits. Flushing non-flushable items, mineral buildup, and weak flush mechanisms are some of the biggest offenders homeowners should pay close attention to. In some cases, a deeper sewer issue could be to blame.

What Causes Toilet Clogs?

• Flushing the wrong things – Wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and even excessive toilet paper don’t break down easily.
• Low-flow toilets – Older or weak-flushing toilets don’t generate enough force to push waste through the pipes.
• Mineral buildup – Hard water deposits can narrow pipe openings, making clogs more likely.
• Sewer line issues – If all the toilets in your home back up at once, a deeper blockage could be in your main sewer line.

“Many homeowners don’t realize their flushing habits can lead to serious plumbing problems,” shares a licensed plumber. “Even ‘flushable’ wipes can cause blockages over time.”

Quick and Easy Ways to Unclog a Toilet

Not all clogs require a professional plumber. When facing a clog, don’t panic. Try these simple methods, coupled with toilet drain cleaning, to get things flowing again.

Plunger Method – A good-quality plunger is the best tool for most clogs.

• Use a flange plunger, which has a rubber extension for a better seal.
• Position it over the drain, push down firmly, and pull up quickly to create suction.
• Repeat several times until the water drains.

Hot Water and Dish Soap – A good trick for dislodging softer clogs.

• Pour a generous amount of dish soap into the toilet.
• Follow with a bucket of hot (not boiling) water to break down the blockage.
• Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush.

Baking Soda and Vinegar – A  tried-and-true natural alternative to harsh chemicals.

• Pour one cup of baking soda into the toilet.
• Follow with two cups of vinegar and let the fizzing reaction work for 30 minutes.
• Flush with hot water to clear any remaining residue.

How To Unclog A Toilet When Simple Fixes Don’t Work

What do you do when the clog in your toilet is too stubborn for a plunger or DIY method? That’s when you need stronger tools.

Drain Snake (Toilet Auger) – Drain snaking a toilet entails using a flexible cable that reaches deeper into the pipe.

• Insert the auger into the drain and rotate the handle to break the clog.
• Pull back any debris and flush to test.

Enzymatic Drain Cleaners – A safer option than harsh chemical cleaners.

• These products use natural bacteria to break down waste over time.
• Ideal for slow-draining toilets but may take longer to work.

“If a clog keeps coming back, it’s likely a sign of a bigger problem,” warns a local plumbing technician. “That’s when it’s time to call a pro.”

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Toilet clogs that are completely unresponsive to declogging methods may require expert intervention. A plumber can use video inspections and hydro jetting to clear stubborn blockages without damaging your pipes.

Multiple clogged toilets could mean a main sewer line blockage and warrant further inspections. Meanwhile, water backing up into showers or sinks signifies deeper drainage issues. Finally, unusual gurgling sounds coming from drainage means that there is trapped air caused by a clog deep down the drain pipe.

The Toilet Paper Test: Choosing the Right Ply

Not all toilet paper is created equal. Some brands break down easily, while others contribute to clogs.

Single-ply toilet paper is the least likely to cause clogs due to the way it is made. It breaks down faster compared to other types of toilet paper. Double-ply is a softer type of toilet paper, with one downside being that it takes longer to dissolve. The worst offender when it comes to clogging toilets, ultra-thick toilet paper can ruin plumbing systems, especially old ones.

How to test your toilet paper:

• Place a few squares in a glass of water.
• Stir lightly and see how fast it breaks down.
• If it remains intact after a minute, switch to a different brand.

A clogged toilet is a sign that your plumbing needs attention. If you’re dealing with frequent clogs or suspect a bigger issue, schedule a professional inspection today and keep your plumbing in top shape.