Unclogging a toilet without a plunger can seem daunting, but there are several effective methods you can try before calling a plumber. With a few simple household items and a bit of elbow grease, you can often get your toilet functioning properly again. Here are 7 ways to unclog a toilet without a plunger.
Use a Wire Coat Hanger
Straighten out a wire coat hanger and bend one end to create a small hook. Insert the hooked end into the clog and start fishing around to try and dislodge it. Twist the wire around to grab onto the clog and pull it up towards you. The hooked end can help grab onto waste and toilet paper and pull it out of the drain. Just be sure to thoroughly wash your hands afterwards!
Dump Boiling Water Down the Toilet
Boiling water can help dissolve and displace a clog. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then carefully pour it into the toilet bowl. The hot water will break up waste and help push the clog through the pipes. You may need to repeat this process a few times to fully dislodge the obstruction. Just don’t burn yourself in the process!
Use a Coat Hanger and a Plastic Bag
For this method, you’ll need a wire coat hanger and a plastic bag. Straighten out the hanger, then bend one end into a small hook. Next, take a plastic bag and place it over the hook end, using tape to seal the bag around the wire. Insert the hooked end covered in plastic into the drain and twist and turn to capture the clog. The plastic bag helps grab and trap the clog so you can pull it out.
Try a Plunger Alternative
While not as effective as a true plunger, you can create a DIY plunging tool in a pinch. Take a large rubber spatula or a piece of rubber from an old tire and fold it lengthwise. Insert it into the drain and push up and down to create suction and loosen the clog. A small rubber ball can also work. Give it several plunges to force the clog free.
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
The classic combination of baking soda and vinegar can break up mild toilet clogs. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet and let it sit for a few minutes to sink down into the drain. Follow up by pouring in 1 cup of vinegar and let the resulting chemical reaction take place. The fizzing can help dislodge the clog. Flush a few minutes later with hot water.
Try a Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you have access to a wet/dry shop vacuum, you can use the suction power to unclog a toilet. Place the end of the vacuum hose over the drain and turn it on. The suction can help draw the clog up the pipe and into the vacuum. It likely won’t clear a severe clog, but is worth trying for mild obstructions.
Use an Improvised Snake
Fashion your own DIY snake tool using a closet hanger or narrow cylindrical object. Straighten out the hanger and optionally tape the end to make a smooth tip. Insert the hanger into the toilet drain and spin it around to grab and pull up pieces of the clog. Keep working at different angles to break up the obstruction. Be cautious not to scratch your toilet with metal wire.
When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve tried these methods without success, the clog is likely serious enough to require a professional plumber. Continued attempts on your own could worsen the situation and lead to damaged pipes or overflowing waste. Know when to admit defeat and pick up the phone! But for mild clogs, try these handy plunger alternatives first. With some clever tricks and supplies on hand, you can often remedy a clogged toilet yourself.
