If your toilet is frequently clogging, especially if it’s an older model, it might be time to take a closer look. Early low-flow toilets (1.6 gallons per flush) weren’t always designed with efficiency in mind. In fact, many of them had rough porcelain interiors in the trapway, which made it easier for toilet paper and debris to get caught—resulting in slow or incomplete flushes. Add mineral build-up over time, and you’ve got a recipe for constant toilet trouble.
Is It Time to Replace Your Toilet?
Modern toilets are much better designed, with smoother internal surfaces and improved flushing technology. But even the best toilet can clog if something like a toy or a toothbrush makes its way into the bowl. Whether you’re a homeowner with one bathroom or managing a property with several units, a clogged toilet can quickly become a headache. Fortunately, there are a few tricks you can try before calling in the pros.
10 Tips for Handling a Stubborn Toilet Clog
1. Start with a Plunger
It may seem basic, but a good-quality plunger is often all you need. Make sure you’re using a flange-style plunger designed for toilets, and give it a few firm pushes.
2. Use a Toilet Auger (a.k.a. Closet Auger)
If the plunger doesn’t work, the next step is a hand-cranked auger. This tool snakes into the toilet and can help break up or retrieve whatever is blocking the drain. If the object is too large or positioned sideways, though, this may not work.
3. Try a Drain Bladder
A drain bladder attaches to your garden hose and expands inside the toilet drain to blast water through the clog. Make sure to monitor the water flow closely to avoid a messy overflow.
4. Keep an Eye on the Bowl
While using a drain bladder or auger, keep a close watch on the bowl water level. Overflowing water can cause more damage than the clog itself.
5. Try a Grab Tool or Wire Hanger
If you suspect a solid object is stuck inside the trap, a bolt grabber tool or even a bent wire hanger might help you fish it out.
6. Use a Bolt Grabber for Deeper Retrieval
Available at hardware and auto parts stores, this tool has a small claw that can help you reach deeper into the toilet trap to grab an obstruction.
7. Remove the Toilet (If Necessary)
If nothing has worked so far, you may need to remove the toilet entirely. Shut off the water, disconnect the supply line, and carefully unbolt the base. Be gentle—porcelain can crack easily.
8. Inspect the Base of the Toilet
With the toilet flipped over, look inside the outlet (called the horn). Sometimes, the blockage is right near the opening and easy to grab with a small tool.
9. Use an Auger From the Bottom
With the toilet still removed, insert the auger from the bottom side and try to push or pull the clog free. Adding a bit of water pressure from the top can help force the object loose.
10. Consider a Replacement
If your toilet is over 20 years old and frequently gives you trouble, replacing it may be the best solution. Newer models are more efficient and less prone to clogging—and may even save water with every flush.
A Word of Caution
Be extremely careful when handling an old or cracked toilet. Porcelain can shatter unexpectedly, and the sharp edges are dangerous. Always wear heavy-duty gloves and eye protection when attempting more advanced removal methods.
Still Having Trouble? We Can Help.
If your toilet refuses to cooperate—or you’re just ready for an upgrade—Efficient Plumbing is here to help. We offer expert toilet repair, replacement, and installation services, and we’re just a call away.