Why Toilet Clogs Are Easy to Make Worse

A clogged toilet is one of the most common household plumbing problems, and also one of the easiest to accidentally make worse. In a moment of frustration, many homeowners reach for quick fixes that can turn a simple clog into an overflowing mess or a damaged plumbing system. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right solution.

Do Not Keep Flushing Repeatedly

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is flushing the toilet over and over, hoping the clog will clear itself. Each flush adds more water to the bowl, increasing the risk of overflow. If the water level is already high, stop flushing immediately. Overflowing toilets can cause water damage to floors, baseboards, and ceilings below.

Do Not Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners may seem like a fast solution, but they are rarely safe for toilets. These products are designed for sinks and drains, not porcelain fixtures. Harsh chemicals can damage toilet components, weaken pipes over time, and create dangerous fumes. If the clog does not clear quickly, chemical cleaners often make the situation worse instead of better.

Do Not Use the Wrong Tools

Using tools that are not meant for toilets can crack porcelain or damage internal components.

Avoid:

• Metal coat hangers or wire tools
• Sharp objects
• Hard plungers designed for sinks

Using improper tools can scratch the bowl, push the clog deeper, or even crack the toilet, leading to costly replacement.

Do Not Force the Plunger Aggressively

Plunging is effective when done correctly, but aggressive plunging can backfire. Forcing air and water too quickly can dislodge seals or push the blockage further into the plumbing system. Always use a flange style toilet plunger and apply steady, controlled pressure rather than forceful plunges.

Do Not Ignore Repeated Clogs

If your toilet clogs frequently, it is a sign of a deeper issue. Ignoring recurring clogs can allow problems to worsen over time.

Common causes of repeated clogs include:

• Blockages deeper in the drain line
• Sewer line issues
• Improper toilet installation
• Flushing items that should not go down the toilet

Repeated clogs should be evaluated by a professional plumber to prevent long term damage.

Do Not Flush Items That Cause Clogs

Many toilet clogs are caused by items that should never be flushed, even if they are labeled as flushable.

Never flush:

• Wipes of any kind
• Paper towels
• Feminine hygiene products
• Cotton swabs
• Dental floss
• Excessive toilet paper

These materials do not break down properly and can create stubborn blockages.

Do Not Attempt Disassembly Without Experience

Removing the toilet or dismantling plumbing components without experience can lead to leaks, broken seals, and improper reinstallation. A poorly reset toilet can cause slow leaks that damage flooring and subflooring over time.

What You Should Do Instead

If a clog does not clear easily with proper plunging, the safest option is to stop and assess the situation. Turning off the water supply valve can prevent overflow. If the problem persists, contacting a professional plumber ensures the clog is removed safely and completely.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Call a plumber if:

• The toilet overflows or nearly overflows
• Multiple fixtures are backing up
• Clogs happen frequently
• You suspect a sewer or main line issue

Professional plumbers have the tools and experience to resolve clogs without damaging your plumbing system.

Protect Your Plumbing Long Term

Understanding what not to do when unclogging a toilet helps protect your home, saves money, and prevents unnecessary stress. A cautious approach and professional support when needed will keep your plumbing working properly for years to come.

The post What Not to Do When Unclogging a Toilet in Your Home appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

A friendly reminder to not flush disposable wipes, gloves, and PPE down the toilet. Candace Miller has been pleading with residents to avoid causing additional problems in sewer interceptors and with manufacturers to change labeling on disposable wipes. We don’t want mechanisms to fail causing sewer backups or waste to end up in the river. If you need helps with clogs or any plumbing problem, contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing 24/7 hotline (248) 652-0990.

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With more people staying and working from home, not surprisingly, there has been an increase in residential plumbing requests. Increase use and abuse on plumbing from family members can cause need for our plumbers. We have especially seen an increase in clogged toilets, as more people are flushing tissues and wipes. The toilet really can only handle toilet paper, so if you are using other items, just toss them in the garbage after use to save yourself the need to call us. Garbage disposals have also received additional abuse with homeowners throwing items down their drains that are meant to be disposed of in the garbage or composted. Putman & Son’s Plumbing knows that toilets back up, garbage disposals break, pipes burst, and sewers clog. We are always here to help you 24/7 if a plumbing need or emergency arises. Contact us for your plumbing problem. We not only will fix it properly but provide white glove service.

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We have more calls than ever to assist with clogged toilets and pipes. Why is this happening? More people are working from home creating more wear and tear on home commodes. Plus, people became inventive during the toilet paper shortage. We hear comments from our clients that they have always used flushable wipes and flushed them down the drain without a problem. Why now? Clogs start slowly and build up over a period of time until it becomes a plumbing headache for you. We can help save you money on plumbing problems. Don’t throw anything except toilet paper in your toilet. Everything else should be disposed in the garbage. If you do need help, Putman & Son’s certified plumbers are here to assist. Call us on our 24/7 hotline (248) 652-0990.

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Every home needs a functioning toilet. This is one feature that everyone in your household requires. When things go wrong, the bathroom can get very unpleasant very quickly. So what should you do if you have a clogged toilet?

• Stop the Water to Prevent an Overflow

The first thing to do is to stop water from flowing into the bowl to prevent an overflow. This can be done by shutting it off from behind the toilet or by reaching into the tank and closing the flapper.

• Clear Toilet Clogs with a Plunger

Grab your plunger and try to unclog the toilet. The initial push will pump out any air, so keep in mind that you may need to try several times. Don’t push too hard to prevent splashing. Once the plunger has a good seal on the bowl, pump it up and down then break the seal and remove the plunger. Everything should rush down the drain if it worked.

• Try Clearing Clogs with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar can work as a non-toxic drain cleaner and deodorizer. Pour one cup of baking soda into the bowl and wait a few minutes before slowly pouring in two cups of vinegar. You should see bubbles appear. Allow the mixture to work for several more minutes before trying to flush to see if the blockage is clear.

• Use a Snake to Break Through Clogs

A plumbing snake is a common tool that can get through tough clogs. You should use a toilet auger specifically because other varieties can damage porcelain. Insert the head of the snake and turn the handle clockwise to begin. Wind the snake back in if you feel resistance. Repeat until the clog loosens and you can flush it down.

Call a Plumber

If these DIY clogged toilet fixes don’t work, or if you have repeated clogs, you may need to talk to a professional plumber. Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing today to schedule a visit to find and fix what’s causing toilet backups in your home or business.

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