Which Chemicals Are Used to Unclog a Toilet?
The chemicals that can be used to unclog a toilet include shampoo, dish soap and baking soda with vinegar. After the chemical solution has been allowed to work for several minutes, hot water can be added to the toilet bowl and generally dissolves the clog, according to Digital Trends.
Shampoo and dish soap both work by breaking down the fats and dirt in the clog. Alternatively, homeowners can pour half a cup of baking soda followed by an equal amount of vinegar into the toilet bowl to create a fizzing reaction that physically and chemically breaks down the clog.
The second step calls for hot?but not boiling?water. The hot water should be poured directly over the toilet drain to accelerate the melting and unclogging process. In some cases, a second or third application is necessary. If none of the home remedies unclog the toilet, or there is a hard obstruction in the drain, homeowners may need to call a plumber.
Drain cleaning chemicals are rarely recommended for use in toilets. They can cause damage to the toilet, seals, pipes or septic system. They also create a hazardous mess if the clog does not clear. Enzymatic or bacterial drain cleaners, such as Drano Max Build-up Remover or Rid-X, reduce or remove build up in drains. When used consistently, they may prevent drain clogs.
