How to Unblock a Toilet

Don't Keep Flushing

The first rule of a blocked toilet: stop flushing. Repeated flushing with a blocked toilet can cause the bowl to overflow. If the water level is already high, wait for it to drop before attempting any fix.

Method 1 — Hot Water and Washing Up Liquid

Pour a generous squirt of washing up liquid into the bowl, followed by a bucket of hot (not boiling) water from waist height. The pressure combined with the lubricating effect of the detergent can shift many simple blockages. Wait 10 minutes and flush.

Method 2 — Use a Plunger

A toilet plunger is the most effective tool for most blockages. Place the plunger cup firmly over the toilet drain hole and push down slowly, then pull up sharply. Repeat 10–15 times with a firm, rhythmic action. The suction and pressure dislodges most blockages.

Method 3 — Bicarbonate of Soda and Vinegar

Pour one cup of bicarbonate of soda into the bowl, followed by one cup of white vinegar. The chemical reaction creates fizzing that can help break down organic blockages. Leave for 30 minutes, then pour hot water and flush.

Method 4 — A Drain Snake or Auger

For stubborn blockages, a toilet auger (available from DIY stores for £15–£30) can reach further into the drain. Feed the cable into the drain and rotate the handle to break up or hook the blockage. This works on blockages that a plunger can't reach.

What NOT to Do

Never use chemical drain cleaners in toilets — they can damage the toilet and pipes. Never use a wire coat hanger as it scratches the porcelain. Never pour boiling water directly in — it can crack the ceramic bowl.

When to Call a Plumber

Call a professional if the toilet remains blocked after all methods, if multiple drains in your home are blocked (indicating a main sewer blockage), if you see sewage backing up in other drains, or if the toilet is overflowing.