How to Drain a Toilet Bowl Completely | Step-by-Step Guide

How to Drain a Toilet Bowl Completely

A clogged toilet is one of the most frustrating household problems. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also be smelly and unsightly. If you’re dealing with a clogged toilet, there are a few different ways to clear it. In this article, we’ll discuss how to drain a toilet bowl completely, using both chemical and non-chemical methods. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent future clogs.

So, whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or you’re just looking for ways to keep your toilet clean and running smoothly, read on for all the information you need to know about how to drain a toilet bowl completely.

Step Action Explanation
1 Flush the toilet This will remove any solids that may be blocking the drain.
2 Pour a cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help to break down any clogs.
3 Add a cup of vinegar to the toilet bowl The vinegar will react with the baking soda to create a fizzy solution that will help to loosen any clogs.
4 Wait 15 minutes This will give the vinegar and baking soda time to work.
5 Stir the solution with a toilet brush This will help to loosen any remaining clogs.
6 Flush the toilet again This will remove any remaining debris and flush the toilet bowl clean.

Identifying the Problem

A clogged toilet is a common problem that can be frustrating and inconvenient. There are a few different ways to identify if your toilet is clogged.

What is a clogged toilet?

A clogged toilet is a toilet that is not draining properly. This can be caused by a variety of things, including:

  • Solid objects: The most common cause of a clogged toilet is a solid object, such as a toy, a piece of toilet paper, or a feminine hygiene product.
  • Hair: Hair can also accumulate in the drain and cause a clog.
  • Soap scum: Soap scum can build up over time and block the drain.
  • Grease: Grease can also accumulate in the drain and cause a clog.

What are the signs of a clogged toilet?

There are a few signs that your toilet may be clogged, including:

  • The toilet is not flushing properly.
  • The toilet is taking a long time to drain.
  • The toilet is making gurgling or bubbling noises.
  • The toilet is overflowing.

How to tell if your toilet is clogged?

If you are not sure if your toilet is clogged, there are a few things you can do to check.

  • Flush the toilet. If the toilet does not flush properly or if it takes a long time to drain, it is likely clogged.
  • Look in the toilet bowl. If you see a solid object, hair, soap scum, or grease in the toilet bowl, it is likely clogged.
  • Listen to the toilet. If you hear gurgling or bubbling noises coming from the toilet, it is likely clogged.
  • Check the toilet overflow. If the toilet is overflowing, it is definitely clogged.

Finding the Cause of the Clog

Once you have identified that your toilet is clogged, you need to find the cause of the clog. This will help you determine the best way to clear the clog.

What are the common causes of a clogged toilet?

The most common causes of a clogged toilet are:

  • Solid objects: Solid objects, such as toys, pieces of toilet paper, or feminine hygiene products, are the most common cause of a clogged toilet.
  • Hair: Hair can also accumulate in the drain and cause a clog.
  • Soap scum: Soap scum can build up over time and block the drain.
  • Grease: Grease can also accumulate in the drain and cause a clog.

How to identify the cause of a clogged toilet?

Once you have identified that your toilet is clogged, you need to find the cause of the clog. This will help you determine the best way to clear the clog.

  • Look in the toilet bowl. If you see a solid object, hair, soap scum, or grease in the toilet bowl, it is likely the cause of the clog.
  • Use a plunger. If you see a solid object in the toilet bowl, you can try using a plunger to clear the clog.
  • Use a drain snake. If you cannot see the clog, you can try using a drain snake to clear it.
  • Call a plumber. If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, you may need to call a plumber.

A clogged toilet can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem, but it is usually easy to fix. By following the steps in this guide, you can identify the cause of the clog and clear it yourself. If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, you may need to call a plumber.

3. Eliminating the Clog

What are the different methods for clearing a clogged toilet?

There are a few different methods you can use to clear a clogged toilet. The best method for you will depend on the type of clog and the tools you have available.

1. Using a plunger

A plunger is a simple but effective tool for clearing most toilet clogs. To use a plunger, first fill the toilet bowl about halfway with water. Then, place the plunger over the drain opening and push and pull it up and down vigorously. The suction created by the plunger should help to break up the clog and push it through the drain.

2. Using a toilet auger

A toilet auger is a long, flexible tool with a pointed tip that is inserted into the drain to clear the clog. To use a toilet auger, first remove the toilet tank lid and flush the toilet to fill the bowl with water. Then, insert the auger into the drain opening and turn it clockwise. The auger will help to loosen the clog and push it through the drain.

3. Using a chemical drain cleaner

Chemical drain cleaners are available at most hardware stores. These cleaners are typically made with a strong acid that can dissolve organic matter, such as hair and soap scum. To use a chemical drain cleaner, first read the instructions on the product label. Then, pour the cleaner into the toilet bowl and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the label. After the cleaner has had time to work, flush the toilet to clear the clog.

4. Using a professional plumber

If you have tried all of the above methods and the clog is still not cleared, you may need to call a professional plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to clear even the most stubborn clogs.

How to choose the right method for clearing a clogged toilet?

The best method for clearing a clogged toilet will depend on the type of clog and the tools you have available. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a method:

  • The type of clog: If the clog is caused by a large object, such as a toy or a piece of toilet paper, you will need to use a plunger or a toilet auger. If the clog is caused by a build-up of hair or soap scum, you may be able to clear it with a chemical drain cleaner.
  • The tools you have available: If you don’t have a plunger or a toilet auger, you can try using a coat hanger or a wire hanger. You can also try using a chemical drain cleaner, but be sure to read the instructions on the product label carefully.
  • Your level of comfort: If you are not comfortable using tools or chemicals, you may want to call a professional plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to clear even the most stubborn clogs.

How to properly clear a clogged toilet?

Once you have chosen a method for clearing a clogged toilet, it is important to follow these steps to properly clear the clog:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This will prevent more water from flowing into the toilet bowl and making the clog worse.
2. Remove the toilet tank lid. This will give you access to the drain opening.
3. Fill the toilet bowl about halfway with water. This will help to create suction and loosen the clog.
4. Insert the plunger into the drain opening and push and pull it up and down vigorously. The suction created by the plunger should help to break up the clog and push it through the drain.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the clog is cleared. If the clog is not cleared after several attempts, you may need to use a different method, such as a toilet auger or a chemical drain cleaner.
6. Turn the water supply back on to the toilet.
7. Flush the toilet to make sure the clog is cleared.

4. Preventing Future Clogs

What are the best ways to prevent a clogged toilet?

There are a few things you can do to prevent a clogged toilet, including:

  • Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. This includes things like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes. These items can block the drain and cause a clog.
  • Rinse out food scraps before putting them in the garbage disposal. Food scraps can build up in the drain and cause a clog.
  • Regularly clean the toilet bowl. This will help to prevent a build-up of dirt and grime

    How do I drain a toilet bowl completely?

There are a few different ways to drain a toilet bowl completely. Here are two methods:

1. Using a plunger

  • Step 1: Fill the toilet bowl halfway with water.
  • Step 2: Place the plunger over the drain hole and push down firmly.
  • Step 3: Pull up on the plunger quickly and repeat steps 2 and 3 until the water is drained from the bowl.

2. Using a toilet brush

  • Step 1: Remove the toilet lid and seat.
  • Step 2: Insert the toilet brush into the drain hole and scrub vigorously.
  • Step 3: Flush the toilet to rinse away any debris.

What if my toilet is clogged and won’t drain?

If your toilet is clogged and won’t drain, there are a few things you can try to fix the problem. Here are a few tips:

  • Try using a plunger. A plunger can be a great way to clear a clog in your toilet. Simply follow the steps outlined above.
  • Use a toilet auger. A toilet auger is a long, flexible tool that can be used to clear clogs in your toilet. To use a toilet auger, insert the end of the auger into the drain hole and turn the handle clockwise. This will help to break up the clog and allow it to be flushed away.
  • Call a plumber. If you have tried the above methods and your toilet is still clogged, it is best to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to identify the cause of the clog and clear it quickly and efficiently.

What can I do to prevent my toilet from clogging?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your toilet from clogging. Here are a few tips:

  • Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper and human waste. This includes things like diapers, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels.
  • Rinse out food scraps before throwing them in the trash. This will help to prevent them from clogging your pipes.
  • Keep your toilet clean. This means regularly cleaning the bowl and flushing the toilet after each use.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your toilet from clogging and ensure that it drains properly.

there are a few simple steps you can take to drain your toilet bowl completely. First, try using a plunger to break up any clogs. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. Finally, if all else fails, you can call a plumber. By following these steps, you can keep your toilet bowl clean and free of clogs.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.