Clogged toilet? Here's how to fix it safely — and when to call NewHeating
A clogged toilet is annoying—especially when the water level rises or the smell worsens. Below you'll find a short, safe step-by-step plan without harsh chemicals. Still not working? Our technician will help you quickly, with nationwide coverage and a 24/7 emergency service.
Signs & Causes of a Clogged Toilet
- Water rises in the pot or drains slowly; bubbling sounds.
- Recurring sewer smell, especially during rain or heavy use.
- Typical causes: too much paper, wet wipes/hygiene products, grease/food residue, limescale/deposits, toys/objects, problems with the downpipe or outside sewer.
Try it yourself safely — step-by-step plan (± 15–30 min.)
- Check the water level. Is the water high? Wait 10–15 minutes for the level to drop; prevent flooding.
- Plunger. Close the opening of the jar completely with a cup plunger . Press down slowly and pull up firmly (10–15 times). Repeat 2–3 times.
- Warm water and dish soap. Pour a bucket of warm (not boiling) water with a splash of dish soap into the bowl from a height of approximately 50–100 cm. Wait 10 minutes and rinse.
- Manual drain snake (carefully). Insert the snake slowly and turn gently. If you feel strong resistance or hear a scraping sound, stop and call a professional to prevent damage.
- Flush test. Does the water drain normally and is the smell gone? Repeat once to confirm.
When to call a professional right away
- Water continues to rise or overflows; repeated blockages within a few days.
- Strong sewer smell, bubbling in other drains or wet spots around the bowl.
- Old/vulnerable pipes, tree roots in outdoor sewers, recent (re)construction.
- An object has been flushed (toy, deodorant can, cat litter).
- You feel hard resistance with a spring or see cracks/scratches in the ceramic.
Costs & lead time
We offer a transparent quote after diagnosis . For a quick estimate, call (088) 222 58 00 or request a free quote .
| Situation | Indication | Avg. duration | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular blockage (office hours) | Price after diagnosis | 30–60 min. | Basic tools/mechanical unblocking if appropriate |
| Emergency (evening/weekend) — 24/7 | Price after diagnosis | 30–60 min. | Emergency planning and availability |
| Camera inspection (optional) | Price after diagnosis | 30–45 min. | For recurring problems or deeper blockages |
Prevention tips: how to prevent new blockages
- Only toilet paper in the toilet; no wet wipes, tampons, or grease/food residue.
- Avoid multiple quick flushes with little water; give the system time.
- Check the flush tank and float periodically; adjust any excessively frugal flushing.
- Use sieves in the bathroom/kitchen against hair and food residues.
- Schedule preventive inspections for older pipes or recurring complaints.
Mini cases (practice)
- Kaatsheuvel: Toy stuck in bend. Siphon disassembled and object removed — repaired without damage.
- North Brabant (Etten-Leur): Recurring odor and bubbling. Checked ventilation; cleaned the downpipe—problem solved.
- North Brabant (Zundert): Flooding during rain. Root growth detected with high pressure and camera — replace pipe section.
Which method works when? (overview)
| Method | Supplies | Chances of success | Risk | Cost indication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plopper | Cup plopper | High on paper wad | Very low | Low |
| Warm water + dishwashing liquid | Bucket, dish soap | Mediocre | Low | Very low |
| Manual drain cleaning spring | Feather (hand), gloves | High on local blockage | Medium (risk of scratches) | Low-average |
| Professional unblocking | Mechanical/high pressure, camera | Very high | Low (experienced mechanic) | On request |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the first thing I should do if my toilet won't flush?
Does baking soda or vinegar help with a blockage?
My toilet bubbles when I shower — what does that mean?
Do you also work in my region?
How much does it cost to unclog a toilet?
Do you also come in the evenings or at weekends?
Related pages
Plumbing work (blockages & sewer) Sewerage (materials) Sanitary Request a quote Contact