Last Updated on October 18, 2023
The experience of dealing with a clogged toilet due to stuck poop is embarrassing and inconvenient for you. Popp also spreads lingering smells in the air and makes an unpleasant space. It’s a scenario that often leads to panic and uncertainty about what to do if poop is stuck in the toilet without causing further damage.
One way is by creating a suction with a plunger to dislodge the blockage. Another option is using a combination of hot water and dish soap to break down the waste.
Alternatively, a toilet auger or snake can physically remove the obstruction. Baking soda and vinegar can also be a chemical solution for a clog in your toilet, and using a wet/dry vacuum can help quickly clear a stubborn blockage.
This article will provide you with six ways to unclog that stubborn toilet. From plunging like a pro to using trusty household items, we have all the practical DIY solutions you need.
What to Do if Poop Is Stuck in Toilet: 6 DIY Solutions
If you find yourself dealing with a stubborn poop stuck in your toilet, there are several methods you can try to resolve the issue. Here are six easy ways you can unclog your toilet:
- Method 01. Plunger method
- Method 02. Hot water and dish soap
- Method 03. Toilet auger or snake
- Method 04. Baking soda and vinegar
- Method 05. Wet/Dry vacuum
- Method 06. Call a professional
Let’s take a closer look at these methods and how they can help get your toilet running again.
Method 01. Plunger Method
To effectively employ the plunger method, make sure there’s enough water in the toilet bowl to cover the rubber part of the plunger. It will seal tightly and allow for maximum suction.
Once you have ensured sufficient water level, position the plunger over the hole into the toilet bowl and press down firmly but slowly. Then, pull up forcefully while maintaining the seal.
Repeat this plunge motion repeatedly, gradually increasing your force each time. Be patient during this process, as it may take a few attempts to dislodge the poop clog completely. Once you notice that the water is draining, flush it to ensure everything is clear.
Method 02. Hot Water and Dish Soap
The hot water and dish soap method is a simple and effective way to soften poop blockages in the toilet.
Start by boiling a pot of water and allowing it to cool slightly. While it’s cooling, add a generous amount of dish soap, around one cup, to the toilet bowl.
Once the water has cooled, pour it into the bowl from a moderate height to create a forceful flow. Combining heat and soap will eliminate the blockage over time.
Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the mixture to work. Afterward, try flushing the toilet again. If it doesn’t clear on the first attempt, give it some more time and try again later.
Method 03. Toilet Auger or Snake
Another way to clear a tough poop clog is to use a toilet auger or snake. This device looks like a long, flexible rod with a crank handle on one end. It’s designed to be inserted into the toilet bowl and unclog blockages deep inside the pipes.
To use this, gently rotate the handle counterclockwise while applying slight upward pressure. The snake will gradually come out of the drain hole, bringing the stuck poop with it. Be cautious not to yank or jerk the snake too forcefully, as this can cause splashing or create a mess.
Then flush the toilet several times to ensure the clog is completely gone. Once you have successfully removed the snake, inspect it to ensure all the waste has been cleared from its surface. If any residue remains, wipe it off using a disposable cloth or paper towel before disposing of it properly.
Method 04. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Pour approximately one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl and add one cup of vinegar. Combining these two ingredients will create a chemical reaction that results in fizzing and bubbling. The reaction breaks down the blockage in your toilet. Allow the mixture to rest for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing it to work its magic.
After the allotted time has passed, it’s time to flush away the loosened debris. Start by pouring hot water moderately into the bowl. The force of the water will help push everything through and clear any remaining poop clogs.
Once you’ve done this, try flushing the toilet again to ensure everything is fully cleared. Repeat this process until your toilet is back to normal functioning.
Avoid using excessive force or harsh chemicals on your own, as these can further damage your plumbing system. Using baking soda and vinegar is an effective and practical method for dealing with stuck poop in your toilet.
Method 05. Wet/Dry Vacuum
Using a wet/dry vacuum is a helpful way to clear a clog in your toilet. If you can access one, ensure it’s set to the wet function.
Create a tight seal around the drain hole with the vacuum hose. You may need to use a piece of cloth or an old T-shirt to do this. Place the cloth or T-shirt over the toilet bowl hole and wrap the vacuum hose around it.
Turn on the machine and wait for a few seconds. This should create enough suction to dislodge any clogs in your toilet. As you break apart the stuck poop clog, you’ll notice the water and waste being sucked into the vacuum.
Once your toilet is clear, remember to dispose of the waste properly and sanitize the vacuum hose for future use. This method can effectively resolve a stubborn clog in your toilet.
Method 06. Call a Professional
If none of the previous methods work, it’s time to call a professional plumber to resolve the clog in your toilet. When you reach out to them, provide all the details about the issue and any steps you’ve already taken.
A professional plumber has the experience and specialized tools necessary to clean poop and its bad smells safely and effectively. They can assess the situation accurately and determine the best course of action.
Why is my toilet clogged with poop when I flush it?
Sometimes, when you’re careful about flushing after pooping, your toilet can still get clogged with poop. This can happen due to factors like the volume of toilet paper used or the type of toilet. It’s essential to understand why this happens to prevent future occurrences.
If you use an excessive amount of toilet paper during each flush, it can overwhelm the plumbing system and lead to a blockage. Also, certain types of toilets may have narrower pipes or weaker flushing power, making them more prone to clogs.
Another factor could be the consistency and size of the waste itself, which can sometimes be difficult for the toilet to handle efficiently.
To avoid these issues, consider using less toilet paper per flush and choosing a toilet with better flushing capabilities. Regular maintenance and occasional plunger use can also help keep your toilet free from clogs caused by poop.
Is it safe to use boiling water to unclog a poop-clogged toilet?
While hot water can effectively soften a poop clog, boiling water is risky. The extreme heat can result in cracks or even breakage of the toilet bowl, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
You should instead use hot water cooled slightly to a safe temperature before pouring it into the bowl. This will still provide the desired effect of softening the poop and making it easier to flush away without risking any damage.
What are some long-term solutions to prevent toilet clogs with poop?
One long-term solution for toilet clogs caused by poop is using thinner toilet paper varieties. Thicker toilet paper tends to be more likely to cause clogs because it doesn’t break down as easily in water.
Opting for thinner options can help ensure that the toilet paper dissolves quickly and doesn’t contribute to blockages in the plumbing system.
When shopping for toilet paper, look for brands labeled as ‘septic-safe’ or ‘easily flushable.’ These types of toilet paper are designed to disintegrate quickly when exposed to water, making them less likely to cause clogs.
Safely Remove Stuck Poop in Your Toilet
Knowing how to handle a situation where poop is stuck can be incredibly helpful in moments of toilet trouble. Follow the steps this guide outlines to increase your chances of resolving the issue without hiring a professional.
There are various methods to clear stubborn clogs, from using a plunger with the right technique to employing hot water and dish soap, a toilet auger, baking soda, vinegar, or even a wet/dry vacuum.
While doing so, it’s essential to exercise caution and avoid using extreme heat or harsh chemicals that could damage your toilet.
To prevent future clogs, consider using thinner, septic-safe toilet paper and maintaining your toilet properly. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber who can safely and effectively address the problem.
