The 5 Most Common Clogs in Toilets

Plumbing issues are one of the many problems a homeowner faces. The most common plumbing issue is a clog in a toilet.

There are many reasons a toilet can be stopped up. Here are the five most common clogs in toilets.

Toilet Paper/ Wipes

If you think about it, this is the most logical reason that a toilet would be clogged.

If you’re someone who usually uses a lot of toilet paper, it’s probably best to flush the waste down before you start using toilet paper and even flush a few times between uses. This will cut down on the possibility of clogs.

Baby wipes also are a huge reason toilets are clogged. When children are potty training, they usually use too many wipes. If the toilet is clogged, make sure you contact a plumber who can plunge or snake the drain to unclog the toilet before it overflows.

Accidents

Everyone has experienced that “oops” moment when you’re in the bathroom and something falls in the toilet. It could be your toothbrush, razor blade, or even a toy your child “accidentally” placed in the toilet. Whatever it may be, the worst thing you can do is flush it to avoid sticking your hand in the toilet bowl.

Even if the item seems small, it’s best to fish it out. If for some reason the item does get flushed, contact a plumber who is able to snake the toilet’s drain. It may seem that whatever the item is got flushed away, but more than likely it is stuck somewhere in the drain, and will eventually act as a trap and clog the toilet.

Feminine Hygiene Products

Tampons or sanitary napkins (pads) cause another common clog. Tampons are made to expand and collect moisture. This will likely act as a stopper and clog the toilet drain.

In addition, most pads are designed with a plastic liner that will not dissolve even if you believe the other part of it will. The best plan of action, when any of these items gets flushed, is to contact a plumber to snake the drain and avoid any further mishaps.

Toilet Fresheners

Some people use toilet fresheners that hang over the edge of the bowl with metal clips. Over time, the clips deteriorate causing the freshener to fall into the toilet.

If this freshener does accidentally get flushed, the only way to clear the drain of this is to get a plumber to snake it out.

Hair

If you have a habit of flushing large clumps of hair or pet fur down the toilet, stop. Over time, this seemingly harmless activity will clog the toilet drain.

Keep these common clogging items in mind the next time you are in the bathroom. It could save you a lot of time and money.

If a mistake does happen, remember to contact your local plumber to fix the problem before it gets out of hand.

Problems with the clogged toilet in your Naperville home? Don’t panic, just Call Jim Wagner, Plumbing Inc. at (630) 577-9241, and we’ll take care of business.