The Expert Guide to Resolving a Blocked Toilet

Understanding Toilet Blockages

Blocked toilets can be caused by a range of simple mistakes like using excessive toilet paper or flushing non-degradable items like sanitary products or wet wipes. However, they can also be caused by bigger issues, such as tree roots damaging or blocking your pipes. 

Before taking any DIY actions, it’s important to take a step back and assess the situation and severity of the blockage. For example, if the water is draining slowly, it could be a minor or partial blockage that you can clear yourself. However, if the water is rising to the rim or overflowing the toilet, it’s likely the blockage is more extensive and caused by an issue deeper in the system.

Once you have an idea of the severity of the blockage and its potential cause, you can consider taking some of the following DIY measures to clear minor blockages:

Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution

For a safe and eco-friendly approach, you can try a solution of baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar into the bowl and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. These household products create a chemical reaction that can break down minor blockages. 

How Water and Dish Soap

Alternatively, you can try hot water and dish detergent. Add a few squirts or drops of dishwashing liquid to a bowl of hot (not boiling) water and tip it into your toilet bowl. Dish soap is gentle on your pipes, but an effective lubricant that can help blockages break down or move freely through the pipes. This method (and the one above) is most effective for organic blockages. 

Use a Plunger

If these less hands-on, more natural methods prove ineffective, you may need to put some muscle into it with a plunger. Plungers are a simple, yet effective tool for dealing with minor toilet blockages.

Purchase a good-quality plunger with a flange for a secure seal. Place the plunger over the drain hole and then push down gently and pull up forcefully to create a tight seal. Do this several times to create suction and pressure to break up and dislodge the blockage.

Plumbing Auger or Drain Snake

You could also try to use a drain snake or auger to pull out a wet wipe or sanitary pad if it is just caught in the back of the pipe. You can do this by inserting the snake into the drain and rotating the handle to navigate your way through the bends of the pipes until you feel a blockage. 

Call in the Professionals

If all else fails, or if you are unsure about handling the blockage yourself, it's best to call a professional plumber. Plumbers, like our experienced team at Essendon Plumbing Services, have all the necessary skills and tools to clear even the most challenging toilet blockages. 

It’s also important to note that DIY methods have the potential to make issues worse if you don’t know what you’re doing. So if you’re in doubt, it’s best to contact our professional plumbers in Melbourne for safe methods and lasting solutions. 

Preventing a Blocked Toilet in the Future

You can also prevent having to take these measures, by taking preventative actions instead. As the saying goes, “prevention is better than a cure”. So, make a few simple changes and avoid the headache of a blocked toilet.

You can minimise the risks of a blockage by implementing regular maintenance and being mindful of what you flush. The most common causes of blocked toilets are sanitary pads, tampons and wet wipes. So, regardless of whether they claim they’re flushable or biodegradable, it’s best to avoid flushing these products. 

Manage Your Blocked Toilet

A blocked toilet is a common plumbing issue that many homeowners will face in their lifetime, but by taking appropriate actions promptly you can minimise the chances of them occurring. Or if they do, at least you’ll know how to manage them.

But if you’re ever in doubt, seeking professional assistance can ensure swift, safe and effective resolutions, and prevent further damage or issues within your plumbing system. So, next time your toilet blocks don’t hesitate to call our team!