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Will Bleach Unclog a Toilet?

This is a question we hear a lot. So let’s dive right in!

If you’re looking for ways to unclog a toilet without a plunger, there are a few different methods you can try. Remember though, a plunger really is the most effective and easiest tool to use on a clogged toilet. So, if going to your local hardware store to buy a plunger is an option at all, we would always recommend doing that instead of trying to pour anything down your toilet. However, if that’s not going to be possible, you can try pouring something into your toilet to help break up the clog if there’s enough room in the toilet bowl to do so. Obviously, if the water level is very high, you should not be putting anything else in without first bailing out some water. But, if you have the space in your toilet bowl, here are some ideas for you to try:

  • Putting Bleach in your Toilet

Pouring a couple cups of bleach into your toilet can help to break up a clog if the clog isn’t too bad. If you decide to do this, carefully pour the bleach in, and then wait at least 10 minutes to let it sit and work on the clog. Ideally, the bleach will help break up any clogged matter, allowing you to once again flush the toilet normally.

However, please remember that this can be dangerous because if the bleach doesn’t work, and you do end up plunging, the bleach can spill out or splash on you. Getting bleach in your eyes or mouth can be extremely harmful, so fi this happens, get medical help right away. Similarly, if you pour bleach into your toilet and end up needing to call a local plumber because it doesn’t work, inform the plumber before any work is started on your toilet so the plumber can take the proper precautions.

  • Pouring Hot Water into Your Toilet

Putting hot water in your toilet also carries danger because you can burn yourself while pouring it in. If, however, you can pour it in safely, the hot water may be able to break up the clog without using a plunger. Again, pour several cups of hot water in and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to see if it will break up the clog. By this point, the water should have cooled off, so if you do end up needing to plunge the toilet, it should be safe to do so.

  • Using Soap in Your Toilet

The degreaser in soap may be able to help break up a clog. Just keep in mind that once you put soap in your toilet, you will not be able to get it out until the clog is cleared, so don’t put too much in at once. Just like any of the other solutions above, put some soap in (just a couple Tablespoons will do) and then add some warm or hot water to help activate the soap. Wait 15-20 minutes and then try flushing the toilet. At this point, if the clog still remains, be careful when plunging because the soap may cause a plunger to slide around inside the bowl while you’re using it.

If you have a stubborn clog that you can’t fix, call a local plumber to come take care of it for you!

Additional resources:
Professional tips for unclogging a toilet
I Can't Unclog My Toilet with a Plunger
Ways to Unclog a Clogged Toilet
Is it Okay to Plunge your Toilet?
Can Detergent Unclog a Toilet?
How to Use a Toilet Snake
The Most Common Toilet Problems that Need a Plumber
24-Hour Roto Rooting Service
How Much does a Plumber Charge for Roto Rooting?
The Cost of Putting in a New Toilet
Can a Plumber Replace a Bad Toilet?