Easy DIY Toilet Unclogging Hacks Using Household Items
A clogged toilet can cause panic, especially if it happens at the worst possible moment. Fortunately, you don’t always need to call a plumber or rush out to buy expensive drain cleaners. In many cases, you can unclog your toilet using everyday household items.
Whether you're a tenant, homeowner, or working in single family rental property management, these easy DIY toilet unclogging hacks can save time, money, and hassle. Here’s how to fix the problem quickly and safely.
1. Hot Water and Dish Soap
This is one of the simplest and most effective solutions.
How to do it:
Pour about half a cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to help loosen the clog.
Carefully pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water into the bowl from waist height.
Wait a few minutes and see if the water begins to drain.
This method is gentle and safe for most toilets and is commonly recommended by experienced rental property managers.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar
A classic cleaning combo, baking soda and vinegar, can help break down minor clogs.
Steps:
Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet.
Follow with 2 cups of white vinegar.
Let the fizzing action work for 30 minutes.
Flush with hot water.
This eco-friendly method is perfect for renters looking for chemical-free solutions, and it's a go-to tip often shared by residential property management professionals.
3. Plastic Wrap Trick
This clever hack works on the principle of air pressure.
How to try it:
Cover the entire toilet seat and rim with plastic wrap.
Make sure it’s sealed tightly.
Flush the toilet.
Gently press down on the plastic wrap. The air pressure created can help push the clog through the pipe.
While unconventional, this trick can be a handy emergency fix in rental real estate situations where quick solutions are needed before maintenance arrives.
4. Wire Hanger Hack
If you don’t have a plunger, a wire hanger can serve as a makeshift tool.
Instructions:
Straighten a wire hanger and wrap the end with a cloth (to prevent scratching).
Slowly insert it into the toilet drain and gently push to dislodge the clog.
Be careful not to apply too much force, which could damage the toilet bowl.
This method is ideal for shallow clogs and can be useful when managing single family rental properties with limited access to tools.
5. Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum (With Caution)
If you have access to a wet/dry shop vacuum, it can be used to suck out the clog.
How to use:
Make sure the vacuum is designed for wet use.
Create a seal around the vacuum hose and the drain.
Turn on the vacuum and let it run for a few seconds.
Dispose of the contents outside, not in your indoor trash.
This is a more advanced option, typically used by rental property managers during urgent maintenance calls.
When to Call a Professional
These DIY hacks can be very effective, but they won’t work for every clog. Call a plumber or your rental property management team if:
The toilet continues to overflow.
You notice gurgling sounds from other drains.
DIY attempts don’t work after multiple tries.
In rental real estate, it’s always better to involve professionals for persistent or serious issues to avoid pipe damage or larger plumbing problems.
Final Thoughts
Toilet clogs are common and often fixable without professional help. With a few household items and some basic know-how, you can clear minor blockages and avoid the hassle of an emergency service call.
If you’re a tenant or landlord involved in single-family rental property management or searching for residential property management near me, consider adding a DIY maintenance guide like this to your welcome packet. It’s a small step that adds big value and helps tenants feel empowered.