Can I unblock the toilet myself?

Can I unblock the toilet myself?

Yes, you should be able to unblock your toilet without too much effort.

To do so, you will need a ball-shaped plunger and a pair of rubber gloves

If you know what the blockage is, such as a child’s toy or similar that’s fallen in, then with your gloves on you should be able to pull it out.

If the blockage is caused by human waste, sanitary products (please don’t flush them) and toilet paper, you’ll need to use the plunger.

Use a ball-shaped plunger, as they are shaped to seal the opening in the toilet bowl to create the correct vacuum and pressure required (which will also prevent mess). 

Using the plunger, release the blockage by creating a vacuum and then releasing the pressure, repeatedly.  

If the rubber of your plunger is cold it might be less flexible, so running it under hot water will help to soften it up and create a better seal during use. 

Plunging in this manner will usually be all that’s needed to unblock the toilet.



There are many online tutorials on unblocking toilets, such as the one here, should you require further help:  Unblocking a toilet


For more information on the suggested steps above, you can click the links to view articles we think you might find helpful. These are provided in good faith, without any liability accepted by us. You should follow any suggestions with care and attention and if you do not have the skills or know-how required to carry out your tenant-like responsibilities then you ask a competent friend or hire someone to help you. 

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