Use hot water: pour several gallons of hot (not boiling) water into the bowl, wait 10–20 minutes, then flush
Add dish soap: pour 1/2 cup dish soap into the bowl, wait 10–20 minutes, then flush
Try a toilet auger (closet auger): insert into the toilet drain, crank to break up the clog, retract, and flush
Use a wet/dry shop vacuum (if available): create a tight seal on the toilet outlet area, vacuum in short bursts, then flush
Use a plumbing snake: feed the snake into the toilet drain, rotate to break the blockage, retract, and flush
Use a chemical-free enzyme/biological cleaner: follow label directions, allow time to work, then flush
Use a toilet-friendly clog remover gel (if needed): follow label directions exactly, then flush
Create a seal with a strong plastic bag: place a thick plastic bag over the bowl opening, press firmly to create suction, then push/pull quickly
Use a small hand-powered pump: attach a rubber end to the bowl opening to create suction, pump several times, then flush
If the water is overflowing: stop adding anything, turn off the toilet’s water supply valve, and remove the blockage once access is safe
Turn off the water supply and remove the tank lid: flush won’t work when supply is off; clear the blockage manually if visible and reachable
Remove excess water first: use a cup/bucket/small container to lower the water level before attempting any tool or chemical
Call a plumber if the clog persists, the toilet backs up repeatedly, or you suspect a blockage in the main line