How to Prevent Toilet Clogs: The Basics Explained

The average cost to unclog a toilet is $700 in most areas and it can seem expensive to many. 

If that seems like flushing your money down the drain, you’re right. We all experience toilet problems, but with the right know-how, you can take care of them yourself.

The only thing better than unclogging a toilet is preventing toilet clogs in the first place. If you agree, read on to learn how to prevent toilet clogs from happening so that you never have to reach for the plunger.

Also Read: 7 Bathroom Remodeling Tips

Be Careful What You Flush

The design of toilet paper is to break down quickly in water so that it won’t get stuck in your pipes. Other absorbent materials will get stuck in your pipes and cause a backup. The simplest way to avoid clogged toilets is to stop flushing everything that isn’t toilet paper. 

Most clogged toilets are caused by flushing items like:

• Feminine hygiene products
• Diapers
• Dental floss
• Most wet wipes
• Cotton balls
• Q-Tips

If you have small kids in the house, you’ll know that it’s impossible to prevent everything unflushable from getting into the toilet. Carefully explain to your little ones that miniature cars, Barbies, hairbrushes, and other toys don’t belong in the toilet.

Use Paper Products Sparingly

Did you know that a side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic was an increase in clogged toilets?

Because of the shift towards disposable paper products to keep surfaces clean, more napkins and paper towels found their way into the bowl than ever before. Plumbers are warning people that paper towels are too dense to be flushed. They will lead to clogs and expensive plumber visits. 

That doesn’t mean it’s not important to clean surfaces and dispose of used wipes. Thankfully, there’s a flushable wipe solution so you can stay clean and clog-free. 

For the Big Jobs, Flush Twice

Here’s the good news: human waste can’t clog a toilet on its own. Almost all clogs happen because of the amount of toilet paper used. 

Some situations call for more toilet paper than usual. To prevent a clogged toilet, flush as soon as you have used your regular toilet paper amount. Then you can flush again when the job is done.

If Necessary, Replace Your Toilet

Older generations of toilets were designed to reduce water usage. These early models used less water but compromised on flush power. That means they are more vulnerable to getting clogged.

Newer toilet designs save on water but still have the power to flush whatever needs to be flushed. If you’re consistently running into toilet problems with an older model, it may be time to upgrade.

How to Prevent Toilet Clogs Before They Happen

Don’t get caught paying for preventable plumbing problems. These tips will teach you how to prevent toilet clogs so that you don’t run into big plumbing bills. Enjoy your trip to the bathroom with peace of mind!

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