Turn off the toilet’s water supply valve behind the toilet
Flush to empty the tank and bowl as much as possible
Put on rubber gloves
Remove the toilet lid and set it aside
If the plunger won’t seal, check and clear loose debris from around the drain opening
Use a flange plunger (or a cup plunger if that’s all you have)
Place the plunger over the drain opening so it forms a tight seal
Push down firmly, then pull up to create suction
Repeat with several strong plunges, keeping the seal
If the clog doesn’t clear, add hot (not boiling) water to the bowl carefully and try plunging again
If needed, try an auger (toilet auger) and feed it into the drain slowly
Turn the auger handle clockwise while pushing forward
Stop if you feel resistance that could be a blockage you can’t pass
Retract the auger carefully
Turn the water supply back on
Flush to confirm it drains properly
If it still doesn’t drain, repeat plunging or switch to a different tool (auger)
If overflow occurs or plunging/auger doesn’t work, stop and call a plumber
Dispose of gloves and clean any tools with disinfectant