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BACKJAN 28, 2025
How to Fix a Clogged Toilet Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide
BACKJAN 28, 2025
Looking for more guidance? Take a look at our Repairs overview.
Few home maintenance problems are as frustrating as a clogged toilet bowl. It's inconvenient, messy, and can bring your daily routine to a screeching halt. But don't worry---with the right tools and steps, you can usually clear a clogged toilet yourself without the need for an expensive plumber. This guide will walk you through diagnosing and fixing the problem step-by-step, so you can get your bathroom back in working order quickly and confidently.
Toilet clogs are a common household issue. According to HomeAdvisor, one of the most frequent causes is flushing items that aren't designed to break down in water, like wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products. Other culprits include too much toilet paper, foreign objects accidentally dropped into the toilet, or a buildup of debris in the pipes. While occasional clogs are normal, recurrent blockages might indicate a bigger problem with your plumbing system.
Before diving in, it's helpful to have these tools on hand:
You can find these items at your local hardware store or online. They're affordable, and having them around could save you from a costly plumber visit in the future.
The first thing to do when your toilet bowl is clogged is to identify whether there's a visible blockage. Take a look into the bowl. Can you see anything that's obstructing the drain, such as a foreign object or excessive toilet paper?
If you can spot the clog, start with a plunger.
After using the plunger, try flushing the toilet. If the water drains properly, congratulations---you've fixed the issue!
If the clog persists, it's time to bring out the toilet snake.
A toilet snake is a flexible, coiled tool designed to navigate the twists and turns of your plumbing system. It's perfect for breaking apart stubborn clogs or retrieving objects lodged deep in the drain.
Once you've used the snake, test the toilet by flushing it. If the water drains properly, the clog is gone. If not, repeat the process or consider calling a plumber for professional help.
Casa makes home maintenance easier than ever. Whether you're dealing with a clogged toilet or another common home maintenance issue, our AI expert talks you through step-by-step guides to diagnose and fix the problem. And if you need professional help, we'll schedule that for you and help you find the best price.
Download the Casa app today and take the stress out of home repairs!
Most clogs can be resolved with a plunger or toilet snake, but there are situations where you'll need expert assistance. For example:
According to Angi, hiring a plumber for a clogged toilet typically costs between $100 and $275, depending on the severity of the issue. While this isn't cheap, it's worth it to prevent further damage to your plumbing system.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to toilet clogs. Follow these tips to keep your toilet running smoothly:
Dealing with a clogged toilet bowl isn't anyone's idea of fun, but with the right approach, it's a manageable problem. By following these steps and keeping a few essential tools on hand, you can resolve most clogs quickly and effectively. And remember, the Casa app is here to support you every step of the way---whether you're tackling a minor issue or facing a major plumbing problem.
Say goodbye to stress and hello to a home that works for you!
