Tips

The Magic of Salt: Unlocking the Power of a Sparkling Toilet

Unclogging drains and fixing smelly toilets, sinks, and bathroom pipes is a challenge many households face. Join us as we explore quick fixes and long-term solutions to these common problems!

Administrator

20 July, 2024

For many households, it’s not uncommon to experience clogged toilets or drains due to built-up grime and dirt. Here are some simple methods to unclog your toilet using table salt and other household items.

1Using Salt, Baking Soda, and Vinegar

Tools You’ll Need

Table salt
Baking soda
Vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Start by removing any visible blockages in the drain with your hands.

Step 2: Mix equal parts salt and baking soda, and pour this mixture into the toilet bowl or drain.

Step 3: Pour vinegar into the drain, using twice the amount of the salt and baking soda mixture. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then pour boiling water down the drain.

This method will effectively remove grime and buildup, ensuring smooth water flow.

Note: If you don’t have baking soda and vinegar, simply pour a cup of salt into the drain or toilet, and flush it with boiling water for a few minutes. This alternative method also works well.

In addition to this salt method, you can also try the following equally simple and effective methods to unclog your toilet or drain.

2Using Boiling Water

Simply boil a pot of water and slowly pour it down the drain or toilet, about 3-4 times, with a few seconds between each pour.

Boiling water helps to dissolve grease and grime that has built up over time. However, this method may not be as effective as the first one.

3Using a Coat Hanger

Tools You’ll Need

1 aluminum coat hanger
Cleaning rag
A length of string
Rubber gloves
Pliers

Instructions

Step 1: Straighten the coat hanger with pliers, and wrap one end with a rag, ensuring it covers about ⅓ of the toilet bowl. This will help push the blockage and prevent scratching the toilet.

Step 2: Insert the rag-covered end into the toilet, pushing it down until you feel resistance. This is the blockage. Push and jiggle the hanger to dislodge the blockage. When the water starts draining faster, the blockage has been cleared. Flush with clean water.

Note: Avoid using a coat hanger that’s too stiff, as it will be harder to maneuver in the toilet.

4Using a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Tools You’ll Need

Newspaper or old towels
Rags or old towels
Rubber gloves
Safety goggles
Respirator mask

Instructions

Step 1: Lay down newspaper or old towels around the work area to catch any spills. Open windows or turn on exhaust fans to improve ventilation and reduce odors. Wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a respirator mask.

Step 2: Use the wet/dry vacuum to remove any standing water from the toilet or drain, ensuring it’s completely dry.

Step 3: Insert the vacuum’s hose deep into the drain and work it back and forth for about 2-5 minutes to clear the blockage.

Note: Wrap a rag or towel around the hose to seal the drain opening, preventing air from entering and reducing the vacuum’s effectiveness.

After unclogging, remove the hose and flush with water to ensure the drain is clear. If not, repeat the process.

We hope these tips help make the task of unclogging your toilet or drain a little easier! Wishing you all the best.

Frequently asked questions

Salt is a natural abrasive that helps to scrub away stains and dirt. It also has antibacterial properties, which can help to disinfect the toilet and leave it sparkling clean.

Simply pour a generous amount of salt directly into the toilet bowl. Use a toilet brush to scrub the salt into the stains and around the bowl, focusing on areas with dirt and grime. Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush. The salt will have loosened the stains and disinfected the toilet, leaving it clean and fresh.

Salt is a natural, inexpensive, and easily accessible alternative to harsh chemical cleaners. It is safe for both your family and the environment. Salt also helps to deodorize the toilet, leaving a fresh, clean scent.

Yes, any type of salt will work. However, finer grains, such as table salt, tend to work best as they can more easily reach into the grooves and crevices of the toilet bowl.

Depending on the usage and level of dirt, once a week or once every two weeks should be sufficient. For tougher stains, you can also create a salt paste by mixing salt with a small amount of water and applying it directly to the affected area.