If your toilet is clogged, you want to remedy that as soon as possible. What if you don't have a plunger or it’s not working? How do you unclog a toilet without a plunger?

Stop!

The first thing you should do is stop and assess the situation. How bad is the clog? If your toilet is clogging up and a simple plunge doesn’t solve it, there may be a deeper issue that requires a professional plumber. If you don’t have a good plunger, go buy one. If the plunger doesn’t work, read on.

What NOT To Do

Don’t use a chemical drain cleaner.

It may seem a good idea to use a liquid drain cleaner. But these products actually contain chemicals that can break down the porcelain and other materials in your toilet, causing an even worse issue. Never use drain cleaner or unclogger in your toilet.

Don’t stick foreign objects down your toilet.

Using the wrong tools can damage the lining and plumbing in your toilet, which can cause major issues that will likely cost more to repair than the original issue.

Don’t act without proper knowledge.

If you aren’t trained on properly unclogging the toilet, save yourself some grief by refraining from attempting things that may make it worse.

Things You Can Try:

If a good plunger didn’t work, there are a few other things you can try before contacting a plumber.

Water

Occasionally, dumping a gallon of water into the toilet bowl may cause the toilet to flush and unclog. If it makes things worse, you need a plumber.

Try a hand auger

Something may have accidentally gotten placed into the toilet, especially if you have kids. Toys, sanitary napkins, baby wipes, paper towels, and tampons are some of the most common culprits. A hand auger may help pull these out. You can purchase one of these online or at your local hardware, plumbing, or major indoor lumber retailer. If this doesn’t unclog the toilet, you need a plumber.

Signs Your Toilet Clog Needs a Plumber

If you are experiencing any of the following warning signs, you will save yourself time and money by contacting a plumber.

• A simple plunge or use of the auger doesn’t do the trick
• You think your child (or a clumsy adult) may have flushed a foreign object
• The water isn’t draining properly
• There’s a leak
• There’s a crack in the bowl or tank
• The bowl is wobbling or loose
• The flushing action seems weak