How to Unclog a Toilet with a Toy in It

Finding a toy stuck in your toilet can be stressful. Whether it’s a small action figure or a bigger toy, a clogged toilet is a problem no one enjoys. However, before panicking or calling a plumber, there are a variety of methods you can try to dislodge the toy and get your toilet functioning again. This comprehensive guide covers multiple techniques, addressing every possible solution with easy-to-follow steps. Let’s dive in!

What Happens When a Toy Clogs a Toilet?

When a toy is flushed or dropped into the toilet, it can obstruct the water flow. This blockage prevents proper drainage, causing water to rise and even spill out of the bowl if it’s not resolved quickly. Depending on the size, shape, and location of the toy in the pipes, some methods will work better than others. The key is to remain patient and methodical when attempting to remove the toy.

Can You Unclog a Toilet with a Toy Without Calling a Plumber?

Absolutely! While plumbers are highly skilled professionals, you can often unclog a toilet yourself using common household tools and supplies. Before rushing to the phone, try these do-it-yourself solutions.

How to Unclog a Toilet Using a Plunger?

A plunger is one of the most effective and widely-used tools to unclog a toilet, even when a toy is involved. Here’s how you can use a plunger to try and solve the problem:

1. Ensure a good seal: Start by making sure the toilet bowl has enough water in it to fully cover the plunger. Place the plunger over the drain hole, creating a tight seal.
2. Use strong plunging motions: Push the plunger up and down vigorously, creating a vacuum that could pull the toy back toward the bowl. You might need to repeat this several times.
3. Check for results: After a few plunges, remove the plunger to see if the toy has moved or come loose. If not, continue plunging for another minute or so.

Can a Toilet Snake Remove a Toy?

If a plunger doesn’t work, a toilet snake (also known as a drain auger) can be a highly effective method. A snake is a long, flexible tool that can reach deep into the pipes, potentially hooking or pushing the toy out of the way.

1. Insert the snake: Feed the snake into the toilet drain, slowly turning the handle clockwise as you guide it down.
2. Find the blockage: As you feed the snake further, you should feel resistance when it encounters the toy.
3. Dislodge or retrieve: Once you’ve located the toy, continue rotating the snake while pushing or pulling gently to either retrieve or push the toy further down (in the hopes it can pass through the pipes).
4. Flush the toilet: After working the snake for a few minutes, remove it and flush the toilet to see if the water flows properly. If not, repeat the process.

What if a Wire Hanger Can’t Reach the Toy?

If you don’t have a toilet snake handy, a wire hanger can sometimes serve as a DIY alternative. This method works best if the toy is near the top of the drain.

1. Unwind the hanger: Start by straightening out the wire hanger, leaving a small hook at the end to help catch the toy.
2. Insert carefully: Gently insert the hooked end of the hanger into the toilet drain, carefully fishing for the toy. Be cautious not to scratch the porcelain.
3. Fish it out: Once you’ve hooked the toy, pull it out gently. You may need to twist or wiggle the hanger to get the best angle.
4. Flush to check: If successful, flush the toilet to ensure the blockage is cleared.

Will Hot Water and Dish Soap Work to Unclog a Toilet Blocked by a Toy?

If the toy is not too large or tightly wedged, a simple mixture of hot water and dish soap might help loosen it enough to either break free or pass through the pipes. This method can be less intrusive than physical tools.

1. Add dish soap: Squirt a generous amount of dish soap into the toilet bowl. The soap helps lubricate the toy and pipe, reducing friction.
2. Pour hot water: Boil a large pot of water, but let it cool for a minute before pouring it slowly into the toilet bowl. Hot (but not boiling) water can help soften or loosen any materials stuck around the toy.
3. Wait and flush: Give the soap and water mixture 10-15 minutes to work. Then, try flushing the toilet to see if the toy has been freed.

How to Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum to Suck Out the Toy?

A wet/dry vacuum (shop vac) can be a surprisingly effective tool for retrieving objects stuck in a toilet.

1. Prepare the vacuum: First, ensure your vacuum is set to wet mode. You may want to empty the vacuum canister before starting.
2. Create a seal: Use the vacuum hose to create a strong seal around the toilet drain. If necessary, use a rag or towel to improve the seal and suction.
3. Vacuum out the toy: Turn the vacuum on and allow it to suck up the toy. You may need to adjust the hose or position several times before successfully pulling out the toy.

Is There a Way to Dissolve the Toy if All Else Fails?

Unfortunately, if the toy is made of plastic or rubber, it won’t dissolve easily. Using chemical drain cleaners is generally not recommended in this case, as they may damage your pipes and the toilet bowl, and they won’t be effective against solid objects like toys.

If none of the above methods work, you may need to call a professional plumber. However, most cases can be resolved with the tools and techniques listed.

Related Questions About Unclogging a Toilet with a Toy in It

Can a Toy Damage the Toilet Pipes?

Toys can potentially cause damage if they become lodged deep within the plumbing system or create enough pressure to crack pipes. However, most small toys won’t cause immediate damage, especially if dealt with quickly.

Should I Remove the Toilet to Access the Toy?

In extreme cases where the toy is deeply stuck and no other method works, removing the toilet may be necessary. This allows direct access to the drain line. However, this should be a last resort, and it’s often best to call a professional plumber to handle the removal and reinstallation of the toilet.

Can Flushing Objects Down the Toilet Lead to Larger Plumbing Issues?

Yes, flushing any non-biodegradable items, including toys, can lead to severe clogs down the line, especially in older plumbing systems. In some cases, toys can even create blockages that result in sewer backups.

Summing Up

Dealing with a clogged toilet caused by a toy can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can often resolve the issue without the need for professional help. Whether using plungers, snakes, hot water, or a vacuum, there are plenty of DIY solutions to try before calling a plumber. The key is to act swiftly and methodically, and avoid flushing anything that could cause future clogs.

Keep in mind that prevention is always better than cure, so try to keep small toys away from the bathroom, especially if you have curious children who might be tempted to see what happens when their favorite toy goes for a swim!