Let's uncover the mystery behind how to unclog a toilet with baking soda and vinegar.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$0 to $10
Introduction
With these simple steps, you can harness the power of baking soda and vinegar to unclog a toilet effectively.
Are you dealing with a minor toilet clog? You can unclog it effectively using common household ingredients like baking soda and vinegar. While using a toilet plunger is a straightforward solution, this method can be a good alternative if you don’t have one available.
So, how does it work? Mixing baking soda (a base) with vinegar (an acid) results in a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. This bubbly gas helps to break down and loosen the clog. It’s a simple and effective way to break down blockages. This is the same chemical reaction as the old “volcano” science experiment you may remember from high school, but it will also work wonders in a toilet. The chemical reaction can effectively break down certain materials, making it a useful solution for tackling minor clogs.
The key to this method is to give the solution enough time to fizzle in the toilet bowl. I suggest waiting 30 minutes for the solution to take effect; set a timer on your phone and go find something else to do in the meantime that doesn’t involve a toilet. While this may not be the ideal approach for stubborn clogs, it is still worth trying when no other options are available.
Tools Required
- Measuring cup
Materials Required
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
Project step-by-step (3)
Step 1
Add baking soda
Before pouring, ensure that the water level in the toilet bowl is not so high that adding this mixture will cause an overflow. Measure and pour one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
Step 2
Add vinegar
Measure out two cups of vinegar. Carefully pour the vinegar into the toilet bowl over the baking soda. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 30 minutes. During this time, the vinegar’s acidity will react with the clog, helping to break it down.
Step 3
Wait and flush
30 minutes later, flush the toilet to see if the clog has been removed. If the clog persists, you may need to repeat the process or use alternative methods, such as plunging the toilet or using an auger to remove the blockage.
FAQ
What happens if you put baking soda and vinegar in your toilet tank?
Using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar in your toilet tank can help remove hard water stains, but it will not unclog your toilet.
How long do you leave baking soda and vinegar in the toilet to unclog?
Let the mixture of baking soda and vinegar sit undisturbed for 30 minutes.
Is it safe to put vinegar and baking soda in the toilet bowl?
Yes, mixing vinegar and baking soda in the toilet bowl is safe.
What dissolves toilet blockage?
Mixing baking soda and vinegar in the toilet bowl can help dissolve blockages. Additionally, using hot water and dish soap can create lubrication to dislodge the clog. Premixed liquid clog dissolvers, such as Green Gobbler, Liquid-Plumr, and Drano Max, are available for purchase at stores.
What is the ratio of baking soda to vinegar to unclog a toilet?
The ideal ratio of baking soda to vinegar is 1:2, meaning one cup of baking soda should be mixed with two cups of vinegar.
