Clogged toilets are one of the most common—and frustrating—plumbing problems homeowners face. The good news? You can often fix the issue yourself with a few simple tools and some know-how. Here’s how to act fast and avoid a messy emergency.
🚨 Signs of a Serious Clog
Before diving in, look for these red flags that your clog might require a pro:
- Water backing up into the shower or sink
- Gurgling sounds from other drains
- Repeated clogs in a short time
- Overflowing despite plunging
If any of these sound familiar, skip the DIY and call Einstein Pros in West Linn right away.
🧰 What You’ll Need
- A flange plunger (not the flat kind)
- Rubber gloves
- Hot water & dish soap
- Optional: Plumbing snake or auger
âś… Step-by-Step Guide to Unclog a Toilet
1. Stop the Flow
If water is rising dangerously, remove the tank lid and press the flapper valve down. This stops more water from entering the bowl. Turn off the water supply behind the toilet for extra safety.
2. Add Dish Soap & Hot Water
Pour about a cup of dish soap into the bowl, then slowly add a gallon of hot (not boiling) water. Wait 10–15 minutes. The soap lubricates the clog and the hot water helps loosen it.
3. Use the Plunger Like a Pro
Position your flange plunger over the drain and push down slowly at first, then plunge vigorously up and down for 15–30 seconds. Pull it up sharply and see if the water drains.
4. Try a Toilet Snake
If plunging fails, use a toilet auger to reach deeper into the trap. Slowly crank it through the pipe, break up the clog, then retract and flush.
🧼 Clean Up & Disinfect
After success, flush the toilet a few times and disinfect the bowl, handle, and surrounding surfaces.
🧠Pro Tip: Prevent the Next Clog
- Don’t flush anything except toilet paper
- Use less paper in one go
- Regularly inspect low-flow toilets for buildup
- Educate family on what not to flush
👨‍🔧 When to Call the Pros
If your toilet stays clogged or you suspect a sewer line issue, it’s time to get help. At Einstein Pros West Linn, we offer fast, clean, and professional toilet repair—often the same day.
👉 Schedule a local toilet repair now
đź“Ť Serving West Linn & the Portland Metro Area
With years of experience, licensed plumbers, and 5-star service, Einstein Pros is the go-to team for plumbing solutions in West Linn, Lake Oswego, and Portland suburbs.