The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Toilets Without Damage

Is there anything more frustrating than a clogged toilet? It happens at the worst moments—before guests arrive, on busy mornings, or after a long day. At JJL Plumbing, we get it. A blocked toilet can turn from a minor headache into a full-blown plumbing disaster if the wrong steps are taken.

But here’s the good news: most toilet clogs can be handled safely at home—if you know what to do (and what to avoid). Let’s break down the essential dos and don’ts, giving you confidence to tackle the mess, protect your pipes, and keep your bathroom running smoothly.

Why Toilets Clog 🚽

Toilets are built to handle human waste and toilet paper. But life doesn’t always follow the rules. Too much paper, flushing the wrong items, or even a hidden plumbing issue can cause a sudden backup.

Common reasons include:

• Excess toilet paper—especially thick or quilted brands.
• Non-flushable items (think wipes, feminine products, or toys).
• Older, low-flow toilets that lack strong flushing power.
• Hidden blockages deeper down the line, sometimes from tree roots or collapsed pipes.

A clog doesn’t mean you did something wrong. But the way you respond can make all the difference.

Essential Tools for Safe Unclogging

Think of a plumber’s tool kit like a chef’s kitchen: it’s all about using the right tool for the job. For toilets, you don’t need a hardware store’s worth of gadgets. You do need a few trustworthy basics:

• Plunger: Get a flange-style plunger (the kind with an extra rubber lip). It creates a better seal and more force.
• Rubber gloves: Protect your hands from bacteria and cleaning agents.
• Enzyme-based drain cleaner: Gentle on pipes, tough on organic clogs.
• Bucket & towels: For spills or overflow.
• Plumbing snake: A small, hand-cranked auger can reach stubborn clogs.

Skip coat hangers and harsh chemicals—they’re more likely to hurt your pipes than help.

Plunging Techniques

The plunger is your MVP for most toilet clogs. But there’s a right (and wrong) way to use it.

Step-by-step plunging:

1. Add water if needed. The plunger needs to be covered by water to work. Pour in a bucket if the bowl is low.
2. Create a seal. Fit the plunger’s flange snugly into the toilet drain.
3. Gentle first push. Press down slowly to get rid of trapped air.
4. Powerful plunges. Push and pull quickly, maintaining the seal. Think of it like churning thick soup—steady, strong motions.
5. Keep going. It can take 15–20 plunges. Don’t give up too soon.

Pro tip: If the water level drops after plunging, you’re on the right track. Add water and try again if needed.

Safe Use of Enzyme Cleaners

Chemical drain openers promise quick fixes, but most are harsh and can eat away at seals and pipes—especially in older plumbing. Enzyme cleaners are different. They use natural bacteria to break down waste without harm.

How to use:

• Pour the recommended amount into the bowl (read the label).
• Let it sit overnight for best results.
• Flush in the morning.

These products work best for organic clogs—like too much toilet paper, not plastic or solid objects.

What Not to Flush

Flushable wipes? Not really. Toothbrushes? Definitely not. Even “flushable” products can cause chaos in your pipes or the city sewer.

Keep these out of your toilet:

• Baby wipes and “flushable” wipes
• Feminine hygiene products
• Paper towels
• Dental floss
• Cotton balls and swabs
• Tissues (they don’t break down like toilet paper)
• Cat litter
• Grease, oils, or leftover food

Treat your toilet like a one-way train for waste and toilet paper only.

When to Call a Plumber

You’ve plunged, tried enzyme cleaner, and the water still won’t go down. Or worse, water is backing up in the shower or sink. That’s your cue to call JJL Plumbing.

Call a pro if:

• The toilet overflows every flush.
• More than one drain is clogged—could signal a main line issue.
• You spot sewage odors, gurgling sounds, or bubbling in other drains.
• There’s a risk of water damage or flooding.
• You don’t feel safe handling the problem.

Don’t risk your home or business. Our licensed team has the tools and experience to handle even the most stubborn clogs—without damaging your plumbing.

Quick Safety Checklist 🧤

• Turn off the water: Know where your toilet’s shutoff valve is, usually behind the bowl.
• Protect your eyes and hands: Wear gloves, and if you’re using cleaners, consider safety glasses.
• Ventilate: Open a window if you’re using any cleaning product.
• Never mix cleaning products: Especially bleach and ammonia. Dangerous fumes can result.

The Hidden Dangers of Harsh Chemicals

It’s tempting to grab a bottle of liquid drain opener when panic sets in. But these products can:

• Corrode pipes (especially older homes with metal plumbing)
• Eat away at toilet seals and wax rings
• Harm septic systems and the environment

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) recommends staying away from chemical drain openers for these reasons.

DIY vs. Pro: Knowing Your Limits

A plunger can fix most clogs. But if you find yourself reaching for makeshift tools, or if you’re repeating the same steps over and over, it may be time to step back.

Professional plumbers use specialized augers, inspection cameras, and safe clearing techniques that protect your pipes and fixtures. They’ll also spot hidden issues—like root invasion or broken pipes—that no amount of plunging will fix.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When JJL Plumbing arrives, here’s what you can expect:

• Visual inspection for obvious blockages or leaks
• Professional-grade augers (toilet snakes) to clear stubborn clogs
• Camera inspection if there’s a hidden or recurring issue
• Full cleanup, ensuring your bathroom is as clean as we found it

And we’ll never use damaging chemicals or risky shortcuts.

Preventing Future Clogs

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of plunging. Keep your plumbing happy with these habits:

• Use less toilet paper with each flush
• Only flush waste and toilet paper—no exceptions
• Teach kids what not to flush (and consider toilet locks for little explorers)
• Schedule regular plumbing inspections, especially in older homes or commercial properties

For more tips, see our Toilet Repair page.

Costs & Time Factors

DIY unclogging with a plunger or enzyme cleaner is quick and inexpensive. Most jobs take under 30 minutes. Persistent or deep clogs, however, may require professional tools and know-how. Emergency calls can cost more, but risking water damage or a burst pipe is far pricier.

When It’s an Emergency

Overflowing toilets can cause water damage in minutes. Raw sewage is a health hazard. If you can’t stop the flow, turn off the water and call JJL Plumbing immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using wire hangers or makeshift tools (they can scratch porcelain or get stuck)
• Flushing repeatedly when the toilet is clogged (can lead to overflow)
• Pouring hot water into a cold bowl (can crack the porcelain)
• Ignoring the problem—hidden leaks or blockages can cause structural damage over time

Signs Your Toilet Needs More Than Unclogging

Sometimes a clog is a symptom, not the disease. Watch for:

• Repeated clogs in the same toilet
• Slow draining even after clearing
• Water pooling at the base of the toilet
• Cracks in the porcelain or leaks from the tank

These signs may mean you need toilet repair or Unclogging Toilets service.

Professional Plumbing Services Near You

Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, a slow drain, or ongoing issues, JJL Plumbing is ready to help. Our team handles everything from Garbage Disposal Repair to full sewer line inspection, for both homes and businesses.

If you’re located in Wisconsin, our plumbing company in Fond du Lac is always just a call away.

Call JJL Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  855-552-2611 .