What Should I Do If I Flushed Paper Towels Down the Toilet and It’s Blocked?
It can happen to anyone. You accidentally flush paper towels down the toilet, and before you know it, the toilet is blocked. You might have tried plunging, but nothing is working. What do you do now?
Assess the Situation
First, don't panic. Blocked toilets are common. But it's essential to act quickly. Standing water in the toilet can lead to a bigger mess. Here’s what you can do next.
Check the Toilet
If you haven't already, take a closer look at your toilet. Make sure there's no water spilling over the edge. If it's close to overflowing, turn off the water supply. You’ll find the shut-off valve usually located behind the toilet near the wall. Turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.
Use a Plunger Efficiently
You mentioned you tried plunging, but did you use it correctly? Here’s how:
- Choose the Right Plunger: A flange plunger works best for toilets. It has a soft rubber end that fits well into the toilet drain.
- Seal the Drain: Make sure the plunger creates a good seal around the drain hole.
- Push and Pull: Use quick thrusts for about 15 to 20 seconds. Don't just push down. Pull up hard too. This action creates suction.
- Repeat as Needed: Sometimes, it takes several tries to break the blockage.
Try Hot Water and Dish Soap
If plunging doesn’t work, you can try this method. It's both simple and effective.
- Get a Bucket: Fill it with hot (not boiling) water.
- Add Dish Soap: Pour in some dish soap. This will help lubricate and break down the blockage.
- Pour: Gently pour the hot water into the toilet from waist height. This can help push the blockage through.
Use a Toilet Snake
If the blockage still persists, consider a toilet snake. This tool is designed to reach deeper clogs.
- Insert the Snake: Slowly push the snake into the toilet drain.
- Turn and Twist: As you push, rotate the handle. This helps it grip onto the blockage.
- Pull Out Debris: Once you feel resistance, pull the snake out. You may need to repeat this process multiple times.
Call a Professional
If you’ve tried all these methods and the toilet is still blocked, it’s time to contact a plumber. They have specialized tools to handle serious clogs that are beyond a homeowner's methods. Look for local plumbing services that can come quickly.
Prevent Future Problems
To avoid this situation in the future, remember that only human waste and toilet paper should go down the toilet. Dispose of paper towels, wipes, and other items in the trash. This can save you from frustrating and costly plumbing issues later on.
