Unblock a toilet
Save £60–120 in 20 mins — no plumber needed
Most people call a plumber for this. You probably don't need to.
Last updated: March 2025
Only basic tools needed — most homes already have them.
Before you start
Do not keep flushing a blocked toilet — you risk overflowing the bowl. One flush to confirm it is blocked, then stop.
The vast majority of toilet blockages clear with a plunger in under 10 minutes. You do not need chemicals.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Tools & materials
- !Toilet plunger (flange plunger)— buy — a flange plunger (with a fold-out inner cup) works much better than a flat cup plunger for toilets
- ✓Rubber gloves— essential — wear them
- ✓Old towels or newspaper— to protect the floor around the toilet
Want everything in one go?
Prices shown on retailer sites. Always check current pricing before purchasing.
Put on rubber gloves and protect the floor
Lay old towels or newspaper around the base of the toilet. If the water level in the bowl is very high, bail some out into a bucket first using an old jug.
Most people get this done in under 5 minutes.
Where beginners go wrong
Using a flat cup plunger designed for sinks — it does not create enough suction in a toilet. Use a flange plunger.
Giving up after 5 strokes — most blockages need 10–20 firm plunges to shift.
Pouring chemical drain cleaner in first — this is ineffective on solid blockages and makes the job unpleasant if you then need to use a plunger.
Stop and call a plumber if...
The toilet is still blocked after 20 minutes of plunging
Multiple drains in the house are blocked at the same time — this indicates a main drain issue
You can hear gurgling from other drains when you flush
Cost breakdown
Recommended starter kit
Five tools that cover most home repairs.
- →Adjustable spannerAmazon·Screwfix
- →Screwdriver setAmazon·Screwfix
- →PTFE tapeAmazon·Screwfix
- →Spirit levelAmazon·Screwfix
- →Tape measureAmazon·Screwfix
Want everything in one go? Get it on Amazon
What you just learned
You now know how to clear a toilet blockage and — crucially — when a blockage indicates a bigger problem in the main drain. The plunger technique transfers to unblocking any drain.
What this unlocks
With a plunger, you can now tackle blocked baths, showers, and sinks too. Next step: unblocking an outside drain if your whole system backs up.
Most people would pay a tradesperson for this.
⚠️ Watch out if you rent
Landlords are responsible for maintaining drainage. However, if you caused the blockage (flushing wet wipes, nappies, etc.) you may be liable. Most standard blockages from normal use are the landlord's responsibility.