If you have ever had to clean up an overflowing toilet because of clogged pipes, then you already know how important it is to solve the problem fast when it happens again. If you act quickly, you may be able to try a couple of methods to clear the pipe before the water even reaches the top of the bowl. If you have a stubborn clog, there are other methods that will likely work that do not require contacting a plumber.

Tap It

When you realize that the water is not flowing out of the toilet normally upon flushing, use your foot to tap forcefully on the backside of the bowl. According to the Planet Green website, 70 percent of minor clogs can be shaken loose using this method and the flush will continue as normal. If it does not help, you should quickly move on to the nearby plunger.

Plunger

If your toilet continues to fill with water after the flush, you may still be able to avoid an overflow by using the plunger. If you do not own a plunger, you should go buy one soon. In most cases a clogged toilet can be cleared if a plunger is used properly. Place your plunger over the opening in the bottom of the toilet bowl and press down to form a seal. If your toilet is not still running, flush it again. The best suction will result if the plunger is used during a flush, according to Planet Green. Pump the plunger up and down vigorously and pull the plunger off the opening after about four or five good pumps. This should dislodge the clog and allow the water to force it down the pipe. The plunger can be a bit messy, so allow it to drip off into the toilet before moving it anywhere else. If your toilet is still clogged, you will have to move on to other methods.

Homemade Clog Remover

Sometimes when a toilet is clogged, especially after an unsuccessful plunger, the water level will be low. This is the perfect time to try using a liquid clog remover. There are clog removing products available in stores, but you can use ingredients from home to make an effective alternative. Remember that if the water level is too high, the solution will dilute and may not work. Pour one cup of baking soda down into the opening in the bottom of the toilet and pour one cup of vinegar on top of it. The chemical reaction between the two will cause a foaming action that can work to unclog sink drains and clogged toilets. Boiling water and dish soap may also work.

Sewer Snake

Use a sewer snake to remove a clog from your toilet it all else fails. This may mean that the clog is deeper in the pipe. Feed the snake into the toilet and push it in until it meets resistance. This is likely the clog. Hook the clog by twisting the snake's handle clockwise, according to Lowes.com. Once you feel that you are hooked into the clog, work it back and forth in the pipe and break it up. Once you feel the snake break up the resistance, remove the snake and flush the toilet to clear the line.

Source:

Planet Green: 7 Green Methods to Unclog a Toilet...Plumber's Crack Optional

Lowe's: Clearing Clogged Drains