If you have a clogged toilet or even if it seems to be sluggish when you flush it, you may be tempted to use a drain cleaner thinking that it will solve the problem.
Can drain cleaners be used in toilets? – Absolutely NOT! Avoid using a chemical drain cleaner like Drano or Liquid-Plumbr – they tend to be harsh and abrasive on your drain pipes.
If your home is on a septic tank – know that drain cleaners can destroy any of the good bacteria in your septic tank so please avoid these at all costs.
What Drain Cleaner Is Safe For Toilets?
The recommended type of “drain cleaner” to use that is safe for toilets are products that use natural bacteria and enzymes.
The problem with these type of cleaners is that they are not a quick solution. Oftentimes, you have to leave the mixture in the toilet overnight.
We can also say that Baking Soda can be safely used in toilets and especially if you have a septic system.
Mixing Baking Soda with Vinegar is a very common homemade and safe solution which can work on toilet clogs.
Just drop one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl. Wait a few minutes and then slowly pour two cups of vinegar into the toilet bowl.
This combination will cause bubbles to erupt (hence the reason to pour slowly).
Once you’ve finished pouring the vinegar, wait another few minutes and then flush. Hopefully this will work for your clog.
What Can I Use To Unclog A Toilet?
There are 3 other methods that you can use to unclog your toilet.
1) Plunger
Keep a plunger in every bathroom. The best types of plungers are the ones with a flange (they honestly work the best). Some people use the plunger and the clog is released, some people flush the toilet and immediately (I mean immediately!) begin plunging and this removes the obstruction.
2) Toilet Auger (aka Drain Snakes)
Although toilet augers are an excellent tool for unclogging drains and toilets, we do caution you to be very careful when using a drain snake in your toilet. You could end up causing more damage. If you’re not sure of yourself using this tool or you think the clog may actually be too far down the drain pipe – call in your plumber.
3) Soapy Hot Water
Another little homemade solution that you can try is to pour hot water in a toilet bowl that has liquid soap in it. You want to put about a teaspoon of either dish soap or shampoo into the toilet bowl and then heat the water on the stove (but do not let it get to boiling) – pour it carefully into the toilet bowl. Wait a few minutes and then flush.
If you have any questions about commercial drain cleaners, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-505-8570. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you have any questions about water softeners or are having some problems with it, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-443-8229. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.