In case of an emergency, knowing how to unclog a toilet is important. But what if you don’t have a plunger? Or what if you tried using a plunger, and it wasn’t getting the job done? That’s where baking soda might come in handy. This simple and inexpensive method can help you get your toilet back up and running without having to call a plumber. Follow these easy steps to clear the clog and get your bathroom back to normal.
Does baking soda and vinegar actually work on clogged drains?
Yes, baking soda and vinegar can be effective on clogged drains. This is because baking soda and vinegar create a chemical reaction that can help break up and dissolve clogs. When you mix the vinegar, which is an acid, with the baking soda, which is a base, the two substances activate and create a fizzing action. The fizz is actually due to the release of carbon dioxide, which can help dislodge and dissolve clogs in your drain. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of this method will depend on the severity of your clog, so you may need to repeat the process if it does not clear your drain completely.
What are the benefits of using baking soda and vinegar?
There are several benefits of using baking soda and vinegar to clear a clogged drain. These include the fact that it is relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and can be effective for removing all kinds of drain clogs. Additionally, compared to some other methods for clearing drains, such as using chemical cleaners or calling a plumber, baking soda and vinegar are generally considered to be more environmentally friendly and safer for your home.
Preparation
Before you get started, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need:
1) Baking soda – This can be found in most grocery stores, as well as through online retailers
2) Vinegar – You can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, depending on what you prefer.
3) Gloves – These can be found at most hardware stores.
4) Measuring cup – You will need to measure out both the baking soda and the vinegar accurately, so a measuring cup is essential.
5) Small Bucket (Optional) – If your toilet has too much water in it to pour the baking soda and vinegar directly into the toilet, you can use a small bucket to hold and mix the solution before pouring it down the drain.
6) Towels or Rags – You will need something to wipe up any spills or messes when using this method.
7) Boiling Water – If your clog is particularly stubborn, you may need to pour boiling water down your drain before using the baking soda and vinegar solution. This will help soften any clogs that may be blocking your drain.
How to unclog your toilet with baking soda
Keep in mind that you should only try this method if you already used a plunger or a plumbing snake and the toilet is still clogged. This is because both plungers and plumbing snakes are generally more effective at clearing clogs than baking soda and vinegar.
Step 1: Pour boiling water into your toilet
The first step to take is pouring a pot of boiling water down your toilet to help soften any clogs that may be blocking your drain.
Step 2: Pour one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl
The next step you will want to do is measure out one cup of baking soda and pour it into the toilet bowl. You may need to use more or less depending on the size of your toilet bowl as well as how much water is in it. Less water will require less baking soda, while more water will require a little bit more.
Step 2: Add one cup of vinegar to the toilet bowl
After the baking soda has been added, wait a minute or two and then pour one cup of vinegar into the bowl as well. The mixture will start to fizz and bubble so be careful not to get any on your clothes or skin.
Step 3: Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes
Now that you have added both ingredients, it is time to let them do their work. Let the mixture sit in the toilet bowl for at least 15 minutes before you flush the toilet. This will give the baking soda and vinegar time to break up the clog.
Step 4: Inspect the toilet
If the baking soda and vinegar worked, you should see the water draining from the toilet bowl. If you see this, try flushing your toilet to see if the clog is gone. If the clog is still there, you may need to repeat steps 1-3 until it is completely cleared.
Step 5: Call a plumber
If you have tried everything and the clog is still not budging, it may be time to call a plumber. This usually means that there is something bigger going on that you will not be able to fix on your own. Clogs can sometimes be caused by objects that have become stuck in the pipes. In these cases, a plumber will need to come out and take a look.
Can you leave baking soda and vinegar in the toilet overnight?
Yes, you can leave baking soda and vinegar in the toilet overnight if you want to. This is a great option for people who have a particularly stubborn clog that does not seem to be going away.