Nobody likes to deal with a clogged toilet, but knowing how to properly drain a toilet can save you from having to call a plumber. In this complete guide, we will walk you through the steps necessary to clear a clog and get your toilet back up and running. So read on for all the information you need to know about draining a toilet.
Why Do Toilets Get Clogged?
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The most common reason toilets get clogged is because people try to flush things that they shouldn’t.
Things like diapers, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and even certain kinds of toilet paper can cause a toilet to become clogged. When these items are flushed, they can cause a blockage in the pipes that make up the toilet’s drainage system.
In some cases, the blockage can be severe enough to cause a complete backup of sewage into the bathroom. This is not only incredibly gross, but it can also be dangerous if the sewage water comes into contact with skin or is inhaled.
How To Drain A Toilet
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If your toilet is backed up and overflowing, you’ll need to know how to drain the toilet quickly. This guide will show you how to do it safely and effectively.
Tools You Will Need To Clear A Clog
- Plunger
The plunger is the first tool you should reach for when your toilet is clogged. It’s also the most likely to work.
- Bucket
The bucket is used to bail out water from the toilet bowl if necessary.
Mop (optional)
Using the mop will help keep the area around the toilet clean while you’re working.
- Sponge (optional)
The sponge can be used to wipe up any water that spills onto the floor.
- Gloves (optional)
Wearing gloves will protect your hands from any bacteria that may be present in the toilet water.
How To Properly Snake A Toilet
- Remove the lid from the toilet tank and set it aside.
- Flush the toilet to empty the bowl of water.
- Feed the snake into the hole at the bottom of the toilet bowl.
- Turn the handle on the snake clockwise to start spinning the cutting head.
- Push the snake into the clog and continue turning the handle.
- Pull the snake out of the toilet bowl when you feel it start to loosen the clog.
- Flush the toilet to clear the bowl of any remaining debris.
- Replace the lid on the toilet tank and wash your hands thoroughly.
How To Use A Plunger To Unclog A Toilet
To use the plunger, you’ll need to fill the toilet bowl with enough water to cover the plunger.
- The plunger should be placed over the toilet bowl’s bottom drain hole.
- Press down on the plunger to form a seal.
- Using the plunger, create a suction by moving it up and down.
- Continue until the clog is dislodged and the water starts to drain.
- Flush the toilet to clear any remaining debris.
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
When To Call A Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried to unclog your toilet with a plunger and a snake and you’re still not having any luck, it’s time to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and experience to deal with even the toughest clogs. A professional plumber can also help you identify the cause of the clog and prevent it from happening again in the future.
Tips When Draining A Toilet
When you are faced with a clogged toilet, there are a few things you can do to try and clear it yourself before calling a professional. First, make sure that nothing is blocking the toilet bowl itself. Sometimes objects can fall into the bowl and cause a blockage. If this is the case, you can simply remove the object and flush the toilet to clear the blockage.
If nothing is blocking the toilet bowl, then you will need to check the trapway. The trapway is the U-shaped pipe that connects the bowl to the drainpipe. If there is a clog in the trapway, you will need to use a plunger to try and clear it. Create suction by putting the plunger over the opening in the bowl and pushing and pulling it up and down. This suction will assist in dislodging the obstruction and flushing it out of the system.
If you have a double sink, you can also try using a cup or bowl to bail water out of the toilet bowl and into the other sink. This will help to break up the clog and allow it to be flushed away.
Once you have tried these methods and the toilet is still clogged, you will need to call a professional for help. They will have the tools and knowledge necessary to clear the blockage and get your toilet working again.
Final Thoughts
Draining a toilet may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can easily get the job done.
We hope this guide has been helpful. Please feel free to leave any suggestions or queries in the space below. We’ll be happy to help.

My name is Brad Hollister and I’m the founder of toiletneeds.com. I’m a professional writer and bathroom accessories expert, specializing in helping people make educated decisions about their purchases. My posts are designed to provide valuable information on all types of toilet accessories, from toilet seats to bidets and more. With my knowledge and experience, you can be sure that you’re getting the best advice when it comes to plumbing fixtures. Welcome to my blog!