Blocked toilet
- What should you do?

If your toilet is blocked, there is no need to panic. With these simple and effective tricks, you can easily unblock your toilet yourself.

The most common causes of a blocked toilet

The most common cause of a blocked toilet is a build-up of paper in the drain. This often happens when too much toilet paper is flushed at once or when particularly thick paper is used, such as wet wipes.
Another common reason for a blocked toilet is a blockage in the drainpipe itself. This often occurs when food scraps or other objects (including food waste, hair, and hygiene products such as tampons or sanitary pads) fall into the drain and block the pipe.
If your toilet is regularly blocked, this could be due to a problematic water flow. In this case, you should contact a plumber who can diagnose and fix the problem for you.

What to do if the toilet is blocked?

Plunger

The plunger (also known as a force cup, plumber’s helper, or drain plunger) is the solution for 90% of all blocked toilets. It is very easy to use. If your toilet is blocked, place the plunger with the opening facing down over the drain and cover it completely. By pressing down firmly and then pulling up, you create alternating suction and pressure. This gets the blockage moving and your toilet will be clear again.

Alternative to the plunger – the PET bottle

No plunger at home? No problem. You can also use an empty, large PET bottle. 2-litre bottles made from thin and flexible material work best. It is important that the diameter of the bottle is at least as large as the drain so that enough pressure can build up. Here’s how: First, screw the cap tightly onto the bottle and cut off the bottom. Press the open end onto or into the drain hole and pump as you would with a plunger to loosen the blockage and clear the drain.

Drain snake

The drain cleaning snake is the perfect solution if the plunger has not worked. It is long enough to reach into the pipe system and remove blockages. Snakes are available in various sizes at DIY stores.

Although the drain snake is mainly used by professionals, it is very simple to use! Carefully insert the snake into the drain and push it in until you feel a clear resistance. Gently turn the handle to use the tip of the snake to break up the blockage. Once the water flows normally again, you can pull the snake back out.

Hot water

Hot water can help clear minor blockages in the siphon. Boil several litres of water and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Pour it directly into the drain and after a short wait (about 10 minutes) the blockage should clear.

Baking powder and vinegar

If hot water does not achieve the desired result, baking powder and vinegar offer a more powerful alternative.

Follow these simple steps to fix your blocked drain. First, pour two packets of baking powder into the drain and then add a bottle of vinegar. Afterwards, pour in 2-3 litres of hot (not boiling) water and leave it to work for several hours (ideally overnight).

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Blocked toilet - What should you do?