Toilets can create drain clogs for any one of several basic reasons, usually involving partial or complete blockage in one of the various parts of the drain system: the toilet trap, the branch drain line, the vent pipe, or the main sewer line.
Common Causes of Clogs
When it comes to toilet clogs, we have seen it all. They include:
Too Much Toilet Paper – Fold the toilet paper rather than crumbling it. This makes it less probable for the toilet paper to become trapped in the drain. You should also consider switching to thicker 2-ply higher quality toilet paper so you can use less.
Flushable Wipes – Wipes advertised as flushable, typically are not. They include baby wipes, diapers, make-up wipes, and feminine products.
Dental Floss, Cotton Balls & Q-tips – While they seem to be items that will flush, they should go in the trash receptacle.
Hair From a Brush or Razor – Also best left for trash disposal.
Food or Beverage Items – Are best disposed of in the trash.
Paper Towels – If you use paper towels to dry your hands in the bathroom, throw them in the trash.
Accidental Objects – Accidental clogs we have seen include toilet bowl fresheners, cell phones, wallets, coins, keys, toothbrushes, jewelry, and kid’s toys.
Solution Options
Plunge – The flange plunger is the most effective. First, make sure the toilet bowl contains enough water to submerge the head of the plunger. Then, place the plunger over the hole in the toilet bowl. Maintain a seal and employ an up and down plunge motion rapidly, keeping the plunger under the water level and lifting it only an inch or so on every upstroke. Finally, be patient, the plunging solution may take ten minutes or more.
Drain Cleaner Overnight -Make your own drain cleaner by pouring one cup of baking soda and two cups of vinegar into the toilet and adding a half gallon of hot water. Dish soap can also be effective to loosen some obstructions.
Remove Accidental Objects – If an object has fallen into the toilet, avoid flushing it. Grab gloves, or tongs and fish it out. While it may not sound ideal, it is better than the possibility of severe damage and expensive plumbing repairs.
Adjust the Flapper Chain -Your toilet flapper may not be functioning correctly, causing a weak flush. This is generally an easy fix and can be accomplished by adjusting the attached chain.
Call a Plumber – If your toilet does not unclog or you experience recurring clogs, a professional can help you diagnose the problem or upgrade your toilet as necessary.
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