How to Unclog a Toilet Trap

Unclogging a toilet trap can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and techniques, you can get your toilet working properly again in no time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to unclog a toilet trap quickly and easily.

Understanding Toilet Traps

Before you can unclog a toilet trap, it helps to understand what a toilet trap is and how it works.

The trap is the curved section of pipe directly underneath the toilet bowl. This piece of plumbing is designed to hold water and prevent sewer gases from entering the bathroom. As you flush the toilet, water flows through the trap and into the drain pipe. Over time, debris, minerals, and other gunk can build up inside the trap, causing clogs.

Some common signs your toilet trap needs unclogging include:

• Water backing up into the bowl when you flush
• Gurgling sounds coming from the toilet
• Slow flushing or weak flush pressure
• Foul sewage odors coming from the bowl

If you notice any of these issues, there’s likely a clog in the trap that needs removing.

Gather Your Supplies

Unclogging a toilet trap requires just a few simple tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plunger – A standard flanged plunger is best for plunging most toilet clogs.
• Auger/closet auger – Also called a “toilet snake,” this bendable rod helps break up clogs.
• Gloves – Protect your hands from grime and germs.
• Old towel – Place on the floor to catch drips.
• Bucket – Useful for removing excess water from the bowl.
• Eye protection – Safety glasses prevent splashing.

You may also want to have on hand:

• Baking soda and vinegar – These can help break down clogs.
• Drain cleaner – Look for an enzyme or foaming product made for toilets.
• Wire coat hanger – Straighten out the hanger to fish out clogs.

Gather all your supplies before starting so you have everything you need within arm’s reach.

Plunging the Toilet

The first go-to for unclogging a toilet trap is a trusty plunger. When used correctly, a plunger can dislodge clogs and get things flowing freely again.

Follow these steps:

1. Remove any obstructions from the toilet bowl, such as a toilet brush or other items. The plunger needs full contact with the drain opening.
2. Position the plunger over the drain hole to form a tight seal. Make sure the bell end fully covers the hole and the water overflow pipe.
3. Fill the bowl with a few inches of water if the toilet is already drained. This helps create pressure.
4. Work the plunger up and down rhythmically 10-15 times. Apply force on the downstroke. Repeat rapidly to dislodge the clog.
5. Flush the toilet to test. Repeat plunging if needed until water flows freely.

Plunging takes a bit of technique, but a few troubleshooting tips can help:

• Ensure a tight seal between the plunger and drain hole. Any air gaps will reduce suction power.
• Use quick, vertical motions. Don’t push too gently or go side-to-side.
• Plunge for several minutes at a time for stubborn clogs. It can take awhile to dislodge the blockage.
• Check after each flush cycle and repeat plunging until the toilet flushes normally.

With some perseverance, plunging should knock out many simple toilet trap clogs. But for more serious obstructions, you’ll need to bring in reinforcements.

Using a Closet Auger

When plunging fails to clear out the clog, it’s time to employ a closet auger (also called a toilet snake). This tool has a long, flexible steel cable you feed down into the toilet trap to break up blockages.

Follow these steps to unclog with a closet auger:

1. Remove the toilet tank lid and set it aside. This gives you better access.
2. Feed the auger cable into the toilet bowl vertically. Don’t go at an angle or you could scratch the bowl.
3. Turn the handle clockwise while gently pushing the cable forward into the drain opening. Go slow to avoid damage.
4. When you meet resistance, crank the handle to let the auger tip bore through the clog. Using an in-and-out motion often works best.
5. Once the cable moves forward easily again, retract it slowly. Run water to check if the clog cleared.
6. Repeat the process if needed, aiming the cable in different directions to unclog fully.
7. Rinse off the auger and wash your hands when finished.

Some tips for effective augering:

• Take your time and don’t force the cable. Let the auger do the work.
• Position toilet paper or a towel beneath the cable to prevent scratching the bowl.
• If you feel resistance, let the cable sit in place briefly to work on the clog before retracting it.
• Expect to remove a few blobs of gunk when withdrawing the auger after unclogging.

An auger is the ultimate weapon against trapped toilet clogs. But for the toughest blockages, you may need to try a few other options.

Using a Wire Coat Hanger

Don’t have an auger? In a pinch, a wire coat hanger can work to dislodge clogs. Just be extremely careful not to scratch your toilet bowl.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Straighten out the coat hanger completely so it forms a long, thin rod.
2. Make a small hook at the end by bending 1-2 inches of the wire. This helps grab debris.
3. Slowly insert the hanger into the drain hole, bending the wire to follow the trap’s curves.
4. Spin and angle the hanger gently once it’s inserted to fish around for clogs. Don’t force it.
5. When you feel a blockage, wiggle the hook back and forth to try and dislodge it.
6. Remove the hanger slowly, rinsing off any grime. Flush to test the drain.
7. Repeat as needed, trying different angles and hook positions to clear stubborn clogs.

This approach requires finesse and patience to avoid toilet damage. Wrap exposed wire in duct tape or a rubber band to prevent scratching. Don’t force the hanger past drains curves or you can puncture pipes.

Dissolving Clogs with Baking Soda and Vinegar

For soap scum or mineral buildup clogs, a homemade baking soda and vinegar treatment can dissolve away the gunk without chemicals. The reaction causes fizzing and releases bubbles to help break up blockages.

To apply:

1. Remove as much standing water from the bowl as possible. A small bucket helps with this.
2. Pour 1-2 cups baking soda into the toilet bowl. Sprinkle and coat the drain hole thoroughly.
3. Follow with 2 cups of undiluted white vinegar. Pour slowly to activate the fizzing reaction.
4. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to work on dissolving mineral deposits or soap scum.
5. Flush the toilet to send the treatment through the trap and test for clearing.
6. Repeat as needed if the drain remains sluggish. Wait 10 minutes between treatments.

The key is allowing enough time for the baking soda and vinegar to fully react before flushing. You can also use a toilet brush to scrub away remaining buildup. This method works well for minor clogs.

Using a Foaming Drain Cleaner

Liquid drain cleaners made specifically for toilets can quickly break down organic clogs and grease buildup. Look for a cleaner that uses active foaming agents rather than harsh chemicals.

Follow the product label, but generally:

1. Remove standing water from the toilet bowl as much as possible first.
2. Squirt a generous amount of drain cleaner solution into the bowl and coat the trap fully.
3. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Don’t flush during this time.
4. Flush the toilet. The foam helps propel the clog down the drain.
5. Repeat as needed until the drain clears. Use caution not to overuse caustic cleaners.

When using any drain cleaner:

• Never mix products or chemicals. Only use one agent at a time.
• Wear gloves and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated space.
• Read all warnings before use and follow instructions carefully.

The right foaming cleaner can make quick work of grease clogs when used properly. Exercise caution with kids or pets present.

Calling a Plumber for Stubborn Clogs

If you’ve tried everything and the toilet trap remains completely clogged, it may be time to call for professional drain cleaning help. A plumber has specialized tools and high-pressure jetting equipment to remove blockages you can’t tackle on your own.

Signs it’s time to call a pro:

• Standing water remains in the bowl after plunging and augering.
• No amount of effort unclogs the trap fully.
• You suspect the clog extends into buried drain pipes.
• There are sewer gas odors coming from drains.

Don’t keep flushing a completely blocked toilet, as overflowing water can cause substantial property damage. Professional drain cleaners can inspect the drain system and pinpoint hidden obstructions. For serious blockages extending beyond the trap, repairs or replacement of drain lines may be required.

The upside of calling a plumber is they can also inspect your toilet and traps for issues like leaks, corrosion, alignment problems or cracked pipes. If you have a toilet prone to frequent clogs, a plumber can troubleshoot and determine the underlying problem, then offer maintenance or replacement options. Investing in professional drain cleaning services can save you from recurring clog headaches.

Preventing Future Toilet Trap Clogs

While unclogging a toilet trap provides immediate relief, taking steps to prevent future clogs is wise. Try these DIY maintenance tips:

• Reduce what goes down the bowl – Avoid flushing anything besides toilet paper, including wipes and other non-flushables. These items readily snag in traps.
• Do regular bowl cleanings – Use a toilet cleaning wand or brush to scrub the bowl and trap weekly to remove scum buildup before it hardens.
• Use a bowl cleaner regularly – Let a commercial toilet cleaner that contains bleach or enzymes sit in the bowl overnight to break down gunk and deodorize.
• Check tank and supply valves – Replace any leaky flapper valves or fill valves, which can increase water flow issues.
• Dump baking soda or vinegar treatments down the bowl monthly to keep drains clear and prevent buildup.
• Have the toilet professionally inspected for any underlying issues, cracks, leaks, or needed repairs.

With periodic maintenance and avoiding clog-causing materials, your toilet trap can keep flowing freely for years to come.

FAQs About Unclogging Toilet Traps

What causes most toilet clogs?

The most common causes of toilet clogs include:

• Buildup of mineral deposits from hard water
• Accumulation of hair, grease, and soap scum
• Flushing wipes, feminine products or other non-flushable items
• A child’s toy or other foreign object wedging in trap
• Tree roots infiltrating and blocking underground drain lines

Why does my toilet clog so frequently?

Frequent toilet clogs usually stem from an underlying issue, including:

• Venting problems in your drain system
• A weak flush or low water flow allowing debris to accumulate
• Cracked or poorly aligned pipes that catch debris
• Drain line blockages or damage from tree roots
• Overall lack of maintenance allowing scum and clogs to redevelop quickly

If your toilet clogs persistently, have a professional plumber inspect and troubleshoot the cause.

Is it safe to use a drain cleaner in a toilet?

Drain cleaners made specifically for toilet use are generally safe when label directions are followed exactly. Never mix chemical cleaners or use a product not formulated for toilets. Caustic cleaners can damage pipes and release toxic gases. Take precautions and avoid overuse.

Why is my toilet gurgling and bubbles are coming up the drain?

Gurgling and bubble activity when you flush often means there is a partial clog or venting issue in your toilet trap or drain lines. Clogs can cause air pressure to build up and release bubbles up through the water as a result. Have a professional inspect the drain system.

Are there homemade drain cleaners I can use safely?

Yes, baking soda and vinegar is one of the most popular homemade drain cleaning mixtures. Simply sprinkle baking soda generously into the toilet bowl, followed by vinegar – the ensuing chemical reaction can help break down buildup. Just avoid using this method after commercial drain cleaners, and never mix chemicals.

Conclusion

Unclogging a stubborn toilet trap may take patience, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be accomplished at home without requiring a costly plumber visit. Try a few rounds of plunging first, then escalate to using an auger or coat hanger if needed. For really tenacious clogs, enlist baking soda and vinegar or a specialized foaming drain cleaner. Just take care to follow directions and safety precautions when using any cleansing agents. A clean flowing toilet is just a few steps away.