How To Fix A Blocked Toilet May 2026

A blocked toilet is one of the most common—and most dreaded—household plumbing problems. The moment you flush and watch the water rise ominously toward the rim, panic can set in. But take a breath. In the vast majority of cases, you can fix the problem yourself in under 15 minutes with basic tools.

1/2 cup of dish soap, a bucket of hot (not boiling) water. how to fix a blocked toilet

A toilet auger (available at hardware stores for $15-$30). A blocked toilet is one of the most

A flange plunger, rubber gloves, old towels. old towels. A metal coat hanger

A metal coat hanger, duct tape.