Clogged toilets can result in water damage, septic tank issues, and many other issues in a home. In several cases, clogs can be prevented, which is why it’s important to be mindful of best practices. Below are a few plumbing tips to ensure your fixtures and system continue running smoothly.

How to Prevent Toilet Clogs

1. Keep the Lid Closed

Many clogs come from items accidentally falling into the toilet. A comb or toothbrush may fall into the venting hole, or a child may place non-flushable items in the bowl, such as paper towels. You can prevent these issues by keeping the lid closed. Place a note above the toilet to remind family members so you will avoid plumbing issues.

2. Don’t Use Too Much Toilet Paper

Going overboard with toilet paper is going to jam up your pipes. Toilet paper will inevitably dissolve, but while it’s trapped in your pipes, it may snag on other debris, including mineral and waste buildup, when flushed down. The resulting pressure could lead to burst pipes, so use toilet paper conservatively. It’s always safest to use a small amount, flush, continue, and flush again as needed.

3. Know What You Can’t Flush

Non-flushable items are guaranteed to create clogs. Never put diapers, women’s hygiene products, non-flushable wipes, cotton swabs, or cosmetic products in the toilet. Most will absorb water and expand. These tricky clogs usually require professional drain cleaning services to resolve.

4. Address Slow Drains Right Away

If you notice your toilet is flushing slower than usual, it can be an early sign of a deeper plumbing issue. This will eventually result in toilet clogs, which is why you should address slow drains now. A plumber will check for burst pipes and that your home has an unobstructed flow of incoming water. It’s wise to also schedule a septic inspection so you know your entire system is in order.

 

If you require drain cleaning services, contact The Plumbing Source of Cleveland, OH. This company has served the area since 1985, providing comprehensive plumbing installation and repair services. They can also handle your HVAC needs, which you can learn more about on their website. Call (877) 768-7239 to schedule an emergency plumber.