When our toilet clogged so badly the plunger failed, we called a plumber expecting heavy-duty tools. Instead,

he arrived with one surprising household item—liquid dish soap.He poured about half a cup into the toilet bowl,

letting it sit for 25–30 minutes to coat and lubricate the blockage. Meanwhile, he filled a bucket with very hot (not boiling) tap water.

After the wait, he slowly poured the water into the bowl. Within seconds, we heard the gurgle—the clog loosened and the water drained normally.

The plumber explained that dish soap helps debris slide through pipes, and when combined with hot water,

it can clear many common clogs without tools. If it doesn’t work the first time, the process can be safely repeated.

While some clogs caused by foreign objects still need professional help, this method is cheap, simple, and worth trying before an expensive service call.

I was amazed that such an easy fix could save so much time, money, and stress. Now, dish soap is my first go-to whenever a clog strikes.