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How to unclog your toilet… with dishwashing detergent?

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Whether it’s because of the age of the pipes or because of poor daily use (for example if you throw wipes and other objects that don’t belong there), toilets can sometimes end up getting clogged. Very often, we then run to the nearest supermarket to buy an unblocker based on chemicals (caustic soda, bleach, hydrochloric acid, etc.) in order to remove said blockage. However, this solution is neither practical, ecological nor economical. What if you gave dishwashing detergent a chance to unclog your toilet and save a clogged pipe?

The benefits of using dishwashing detergent to unclog toilets

This may sound crazy and too good to be true, but this technique is very effective in just a few minutes. In fact, whatever the brand, the dishwashing liquid will degrease the pipes and lubricate them, which will not fail to slide installed plugs. You can therefore find functional toilets without breaking the bank by calling a plumber. And since this problem can arise at any time, this tip is great to know, because it requires neither equipment (suction cup, ferret, etc.) nor toxic or natural household products (white vinegar, baking soda, etc.). It is simply based on a cleaning product that we all have at home.

For this tip to work well and succeed in dislodging the blockage permanently, however, it is necessary follow certain rules which we present to you below.

unblock clogged toilets clean
Credits: iStock

How do I go about making sure it works well?

1) Start by heating 4 liters of water in a large saucepan. For more practicality, do not hesitate to use one that has handles on each side. This way, you will have a better grip and are less likely to spill it on the way to the toilet! Let us also specify that the water must be very hot, but do not use boiling water which could damage the enamel of the bowl.

2) While the water is heating, you can pour 1/5th of the bottle of dishwashing liquid directly into the toilet. Leave to act for ten minutes.

3) Ensuite, cover with hot water in a single pour (without burning yourself please!) and wait again. About fifteen minutes is usually enough, but wait longer in the event of a difficult traffic jam (around 30 minutes).

4) The water will begin to flow more normally here. You can then flush the toilet. However, some people prefer to rinse with hot water several times to make sure the clog is gone (instead of just being moved further down the pipes).

If that wasn’t enough and the clog is still there, repeat the same steps.

And there you have it, you have unclogged your toilet effortlessly!

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