How to Unblock a Toilet: Plunger, Auger and Safe Methods

A blocked toilet always seems to happen at the worst moment, and the instinct to keep flushing makes it worse. The good news is that most blockages near the pan come down to too much paper or something that shouldn't have gone in, and they'll often shift with a plunger, some washing-up liquid and a bit of patience.

Here's how I'd explain the job, using step-by-step guidance from UK retailer Toolstation, drainage firm Metro Rod, the water company Thames Water and fire safety advice from the London Fire Brigade. I've kept it in the order the guides use: stop the water, try the gentle methods, then the tools, and know when to hand it over.

Stop flushing a blocked toilet and protect the bathroom

Metro Rod's first rule is simple: if the toilet won't flush or the water's rising, stop flushing. Each extra flush adds water to a bowl that can't drain and risks an overflow. Toolstation suggests lifting the cistern lid and holding the flapper closed so no more water runs into the bowl. The water in the cistern is clean.

• Wear long rubber gloves and old clothes. Metro Rod also suggests protective eyewear.
• Lay newspaper or old towels around the base of the toilet.
• Open a window so the room's ventilated.
• Keep a bucket nearby in case you need to bail some water out.

If you can see the cause, such as a toy or a toiletry bottle, both guides say to pull it out with gloved hands. If it's out of reach, stop and call a professional rather than pushing it further in.

Choosing a toilet plunger with a flange

Not all plungers are the same. Toolstation recommends a heavy-duty plunger with a fold-out rubber flange, the soft extra lip at the bottom that sits inside the toilet's outlet and helps make a seal. Flat cup plungers are made for sinks. If a flat one's all you've got, Toolstation suggests wrapping a cloth around it to help it seal, and warm water can soften the rubber.

How to unblock a toilet with a plunger

1. Make sure there's enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger head. Add water from the sink if you need to.
2. Push the plunger into the outlet so it covers the hole completely.
3. Push down slowly, then pull up sharply.
4. Keep going for a short burst, then check whether the water's draining.
5. If it's still blocked, let the bowl refill to its usual level and repeat. Toolstation says this can take 15 minutes or more.
6. Once the water drains, flush a small amount of toilet paper to check it's clear, as Metro Rod suggests.

HomeServe's guide makes a useful point here: the water can drain away while the blockage stays put. If that happens, top the bowl back up to its normal level and plunge again. Stubborn blockages can take several rounds.

Washing-up liquid and hot water for soft toilet blockages

For a minor blockage of paper and waste, Toolstation describes a gentler method. Squeeze a generous amount of washing-up liquid into the bowl, then pour in a bucket of very hot water from about waist height. Leave it for 20 to 30 minutes, or overnight if you can, then flush.

Use hot water, not boiling. Toolstation warns that boiling water can crack porcelain. And only add water if the bowl isn't already close to the rim.

Using a toilet auger for deeper blockages

If plunging hasn't worked, a toilet auger is the next tool. It's a flexible cable with a handle that you feed into the outlet. Toolstation's steps are:

1. Feed the cable into the drain until you feel resistance.
2. Turn the handle to break up the blockage or hook onto it.
3. Pull the auger out slowly.
4. Flush to check the water drains freely.

Toilet unblocking mistakes to avoid

• Mixing chemicals. The London Fire Brigade says not to pour chemicals into the same container or use one cleaner straight after another, as it may create dangerous gases. Wash one product away completely before you use another, and if you feel unwell after mixing products, leave the property and call 999.
• Reaching for a second drain unblocker. If one product hasn't worked, the London Fire Brigade suggests calling professional tradespeople rather than adding more.
• Pouring in boiling water. It can crack the porcelain, so stick to hot.
• Flushing again and again. It doesn't clear the blockage faster and can flood the floor.

What not to flush to keep the toilet clear

Prevention's far easier than the cure. Thames Water's advice is to flush only the three Ps: pee, poo and toilet paper. Everything else belongs in the bin, including:

• Wet wipes, even ones labelled flushable. Thames Water says to avoid flushing anything else even if the packaging says otherwise.
• Cotton buds and paper towels.
• Sanitary products and nappies.
• Kitchen roll.

When to call a plumber about a blocked toilet

Toolstation says to call a professional if the toilet stays blocked after trying everything, or if blockages keep coming back, because that can mean a larger problem in the main drain. Call for help too if the object's out of reach or you're not comfortable doing the job.

If you're working through a list of household fixes, a slow kitchen or bathroom basin often comes next. I've covered how to unblock a sink with the same safety-first approach.

Plumbers wanting a wider audience can start with plumbing websites open to expert contributors.

Frequently asked questions

What's the fastest way to unblock a toilet?

A plunger with a rubber flange is usually the quickest fix for a blockage near the pan. Cover the outlet, push down slowly and pull up sharply, then repeat until the water drains.

Can I pour boiling water down a blocked toilet?

It's best not to. Toolstation warns that boiling water can crack porcelain. Use very hot water instead, poured from about waist height after a squeeze of washing-up liquid.

Is it safe to use two drain unblockers?

No. The London Fire Brigade says not to use one cleaner straight after another, as it may create dangerous gases. If one product hasn't worked, call a professional.

Are flushable wipes safe to flush?

Thames Water says to flush only pee, poo and toilet paper, and to avoid flushing anything else even if the packaging says otherwise. Put wipes in the bin.

When should I call a plumber for a blocked toilet?

Call one if the blockage won't clear after plunging and using an auger, if it keeps coming back, or if the object's out of reach. Recurring blockages can point to a problem further down the drain.