How to unblock a toilet or sink

A nice, clean bathroom is something we all hope for. After all, it’s much more pleasant to relax in the bath with a glass of wine and a good book when you know the room is clean and fresh. Unfortunately, we’re all sometimes presented with a blocked sink or toilet that just seems to get worse and the worse the more we try to fix it. When a sink is blocked with old soap scum or a toilet is blocked with non-flushable baby wipes, stuffed toys, and socks (thanks, kids), putting more stuff in on top of the blockage is only going to exacerbate the situation. Before you try anything, we recommend reading these helpful hints, which will make your job much simpler. You’ll be unwinding in a spotless, hygienic bathroom in no time.

What's the best toilet unblocker?

There are hundreds of products out there that claim to unclog a blocked toilet or clear out a blocked sink, some of which work, and some of which don’t. Here’s your definitive guide to the best products to use:

• Water

That’s right, good old plain water can work wonders on a blocked sink or toilet. Simply fill a large bucket or container with water and pour it quite rapidly down the plughole. The sheer force of the water is sometimes enough to flush out small blockages. It’s well worth trying this method before trying commercial products.

• Commercial Products

If you’re still struggling to unblock the toilet or sink, it’s time to bring in the big guns – commercial cleaning products like Domestos Sink and Pipe Unblocker. Always be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and wear rubber gloves – these cleaners are powerful enough to dissolve blockages, so they’re better off away from your hands. Ensure that you follow the safety guidelines, avoid contact with skin, and avoid ingesting the product. Also make sure that the room is well ventilated when using commercial products.

To make unblocking a toilet or sink easy, there are specialised cleaning products available in shops. Domestos Sink and Pipe Unblocker can get the job done quickly with minimum effort! Just read the label and test any product in a small area first.

How to use a toilet plunger

If you know what’s blocking your drains, and it’s something that you know can’t be dissolved or easily flushed out – such as a child’s toy, for example – then a plunger is definitely your best option. A plunger is easy to use, and it’s much more budget-friendly than calling a plumber. It also makes for quick and easy work if you do it right. Here are the comprehensive do’s and don’ts of using a plunger:

• Do wear rubber gloves and old clothes.

• Don’t use chemical unblocking products first – they could splash up onto you.

• Do use the right plunger for the job – a sink plunger for plugholes, and a wide-lipped plunger for toilets.

• Don’t have too much water in the toilet bowl. Scoop some out if need be.

• Do make sure you get a good, airtight seal.

• Don’t plunge like a maniac – a rhythmic up-and-down motion is fine.

• Do cover other outlets, or the water you’re pushing through will simply come back through the overflow.

The next time you find your plugholes filled with toy cars or dirty tissues, don’t panic, and don’t reach for the phone. Believe it or not, unclogging a toilet or sink is simple, and you really don’t need a plumber unless you’ve exhausted all your other options. Give it a try!

Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use.