How to Drain a Toilet Bowl with Effective Ways

Ever had to fix a leaking toilet? It’s not the most glamorous DIY job, but it’s a necessary one. Before you can unbolt that bowl and tank, you need to drain the toilet bowl. 

Sounds simple, indeed. But if you’ve never done it before, it can be a bit daunting. No one wants a messy floor and smelly bathroom drain.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to empty a toilet bowl, step-by-step. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!

Why It’s Important to Drain Your Toilet Bowl

Before you tackle any toilet repair or replacement, emptying the bowl is a must. If you skip this, you risk a messy spill when you unbolt the toilet. Nobody wants that!

When you flush, water fills the bowl from the tank. This water helps push waste down the drain. Even after flushing, there’s always some water left in the bowl. 

Toilet that keeps running is possible because of something called the ‘trap’. It also stops nasty sewer gases from coming back up into your bathroom.

So, when you empty the toilet bowl, you’re removing this leftover water. It makes working on your toilet much easier and cleaner.

What You Need for Emptying Your Toilet Bowl

Before getting further into how to empty water from toilet bowl, here are the tools you need:

1. Protective gloves

Protective gloves are essential when emptying a toilet bowl. They shield your hands from germs, bacteria, and any potentially harmful cleaning chemicals you might encounter during the process. Disposable or reusable rubber gloves are ideal, as they provide a barrier while allowing for easy movement and grip.

2. Bucket

A bucket is a crucial tool for this task. You’ll need it to collect and dispose of the water you bail out from the toilet bowl. A 5-gallon bucket works well, as it can hold a significant amount of water without being too heavy to handle. 

Additionally, the bucket is useful when pouring water into the bowl to help flush out any remaining water and debris. So, you need to prepare at least two buckets.

3. Plunger

A plunger is an indispensable tool especially if you’re dealing with a blocked toilet. The plunger creates suction, which helps dislodge any blockages in the toilet, making it easier to drain the water.

A flange plunger, with its extended rubber section, is especially effective as it provides a better seal, enhancing the plunging action.

4. Sponge or old towel

After most of the water has been removed, a sponge or an old towel is necessary to soak up any remaining moisture in the bowl.

A sponge allows you to absorb the last bits of water, ensuring the bowl is completely dry. An old towel can also be used in the same way, and it’s particularly handy for wiping up any spills or cleaning the surrounding area.

How to Empty a Toilet Bowl in 5 Steps

Now, it’s time to learn how to empty the toilet bowl to clean it. Here are the easy steps to follow:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Begin by turning off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually done by turning the valve located behind the toilet. If the valve isn’t working, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply in your home. 

After cutting off the water supply, flush the toilet to drain as much water as possible from the bowl. If any water remains, use a sponge to soak it up.

Important: If you deal with a clogged toilet, this step is not for you. You need to unblock a toilet first. Jump into step 2.

2. Plunge the Toilet

Next, put on a pair of protective gloves and use a plunger to remove any remaining water and debris. Plunging can help to loosen anything that may be causing a blocked toilet. This step is essential if you’re learning how to drain a toilet effectively.

3. Pour Water Into The Bowl

Before bailing out the remaining water, fill a large bucket (around 3 gallons) with water. Pour the water directly into the toilet bowl, aiming for the drain hole. 

Start by holding the bucket just a few inches above the bowl, and then raise it gradually as you pour, until it’s about a foot above the bowl. This creates a flushing effect, forcing most of the water in the bowl down the drain.

4. Bail Out the Water

Once the water level has lowered, use a small plastic bowl to bail out the remaining water from the toilet bowl. Transfer the water into another bucket to keep the area tidy.

5. Sponge Out the Water

Finally, use a sponge to soak up any residual water in the toilet bowl. Squeeze the sponge into the bucket and repeat until the bowl is completely dry.

Tips for Effective and Safe Emptying

Now that you know how to remove water from toilet bowl, it’s time to learn some tips for effective and safe action:

1. Check the Water Supply Valve

Before starting, ensure that the water supply valve is in good working order. If the valve is faulty or difficult to turn, it’s best to fix or replace it before attempting to empty the toilet bowl. A functioning valve will make the process much easier and prevent any potential water damage. 

2. Consider the Bowl’s Condition

Before starting, take a moment to inspect the toilet bowl for any cracks or damage. Pouring water too forcefully or using excessive pressure with a plunger could worsen any existing damage. If you notice any issues, proceed with extra caution or consult a plumber for advice.

3. Dispose of Water Safely

When bailing out water from the toilet bowl, ensure that you dispose of it safely. Pour the water into a utility sink, drain, or even outside, where it won’t cause any issues. Avoid pouring the water into areas where it could create a slipping hazard or damage flooring.

Use the Right Plunger

For optimal results, use a flange plunger rather than a standard cup plunger. The flange plunger has an additional rubber extension on the bottom, which creates a better seal and increases suction power. This is particularly effective when dealing with a blocked toilet, ensuring a more thorough and efficient plunge.

Not Sure to Drain The Toilet Bowl Yourself? When to Call in the Plumbers

While emptying a toilet bowl is a task many homeowners can handle, it’s essential to know your limits. If you’re unsure about how to empty the toilet bowl, or if you encounter any issues like a stubborn blockage or a faulty valve, it’s best to call in the experts. 

Attempting to fix a problem beyond your expertise can lead to more significant complications, including water damage and costly repairs. For reliable and professional help, contact Neighbourhood Plumbing.

Our experienced plumbers can efficiently handle any toilet-related issues, ensuring your home’s plumbing system remains in top condition. Call us!