A clogged toilet is one of the most frustrating household issues, especially when it happens frequently. Seeking help from a plumber is often the best course of action if the problem persists.
However, before calling in a professional, there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue yourself. This guide will explore the common causes of persistent toilet blockages and provide expert-backed solutions to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
Common Causes of a Frequently Clogged Toilet
Excessive Toilet Paper Usage
Using too much toilet paper can overwhelm your plumbing system, especially if the paper does not dissolve quickly. Thick, multi-ply varieties take longer to break down, leading to clogs in the pipes.
How to Prevent This:
- Use less toilet paper per flush.
- Opt for biodegradable or thinner toilet paper that dissolves easily.
- Flush in stages if necessary, rather than all at once.
Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Flushing items like baby wipes, sanitary products, cotton swabs, or paper towels can lead to severe blockages.
How to Prevent This:
- Keep a bin next to the toilet for non-flushable items.
- Educate household members about what should and shouldn’t go down the toilet.
- Check for “flushable” labels on wipes—many are misleading and still cause clogs.
Low-Flow Toilet Issues
Low-flow toilets are designed to use less water per flush, which can sometimes lead to incomplete waste removal, especially if the model is outdated.
How to Prevent This:
- Upgrade to a newer low-flow toilet with better flushing technology.
- Hold down the flush lever longer to allow more water to clear the bowl.
- Use a dual-flush system to control water flow based on waste volume.
Build-Up of Hard Water Deposits
Singapore’s water supply contains minerals that can accumulate inside pipes over time, reducing water flow and making clogs more likely.
How to Prevent This:
- Regularly descale pipes using a vinegar-based solution.
- Install a water softener if mineral build-up is a recurring issue.
- Schedule periodic maintenance to clear out deposits.
Blocked Toilet Trap
The toilet trap is a curved section of pipe that holds water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. Waste and debris can accumulate in this area, causing repeated clogs.
How to Prevent This:
- Avoid flushing excessive waste at once.
- Use a plunger or toilet auger to clear minor blockages before they worsen.
- Regularly clean the toilet trap to maintain proper flow.
Sewer Line Issues
If multiple toilets or drains in your home are slow to empty, the problem could be a blockage in the main sewer line. Tree roots, debris, or collapsed pipes can cause significant drainage problems.
How to Prevent This:
- Schedule professional drain inspections every few years.
- Avoid planting trees near underground sewer pipes.
- Be mindful of what goes down all household drains, including kitchen sinks and laundry areas.
DIY Solutions for Clearing a Clogged Toilet
Using a Plunger
A plunger is the first tool you should reach for when dealing with a clogged toilet.
Steps to Use It Effectively:
- Ensure the plunger’s rubber cup completely covers the toilet drain.
- Push down gently to create a seal, then pull up forcefully.
- Repeat several times until the clog loosens and water drains normally.
Trying a Toilet Auger
A toilet auger (or drain snake) can help break up stubborn blockages that a plunger cannot remove.
Steps to Use It Effectively:
- Insert the auger into the toilet drain until you feel resistance.
- Rotate the handle to break up or retrieve the obstruction.
- Pull out the auger and flush the toilet to check if the clog is gone.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Method
For minor clogs, a natural solution can sometimes work instead of chemical drain cleaners.
Steps to Use It Effectively:
- Pour one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Add two cups of vinegar and let the mixture sit for 30 minutes.
- Pour hot (not boiling) water into the bowl to help dissolve the clog.
- Flush to see if the blockage clears.
Hot Water and Dish Soap
If the clog is due to grease or soap buildup, a combination of hot water and dish soap can help break it down.
Steps to Use It Effectively:
- Add a few drops of dish soap to the toilet bowl.
- Pour a bucket of hot (but not boiling) water slowly into the bowl.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then flush.
When to Call a Professional for Help
Recurring Clogs Despite DIY Efforts
If your toilet continues clogging even after multiple attempts to clear it, a deeper issue may be at play. A professional can assess the situation and recommend a long-term solution.
Multiple Drains Backing Up
If other fixtures, such as sinks or showers, are also draining slowly, the problem likely extends beyond the toilet. A professional drain cleaning service can resolve major blockages in your plumbing system.
Foul Odours Coming from Drains
Unpleasant smells could indicate a sewer backup or a broken vent pipe, both of which require professional intervention to prevent health hazards.
Water Rising to Unusual Levels
If flushing causes water to rise dangerously high in the bowl or back up into other drains, avoid using the toilet and contact a specialist immediately.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Clogs
Regular Pipe Maintenance
Periodic drain inspections can help identify potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. Hydro-jetting or professional snaking can keep pipes clear and functioning efficiently.
Educating Household Members
Ensuring that all family members understand proper toilet use can prevent unnecessary blockages. Providing clear guidelines on what should and shouldn’t be flushed can reduce the risk of plumbing issues.
Installing a High-Performance Toilet
If persistent clogs are a problem, upgrading to a more efficient toilet can help. Look for models with:
- Stronger flushing power.
- Dual-flush mechanisms.
- Anti-clog technology.
Using Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaners
Instead of harsh chemicals, opt for enzyme-based cleaners that break down organic matter in your pipes without damaging them. These products help maintain clear drains while being environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
A constantly clogging toilet is more than just a minor inconvenience—it can signal deeper plumbing issues that require attention. While simple blockages can often be resolved with DIY methods like plunging, drain augers, or natural solutions, persistent problems may need expert intervention.
By adopting good plumbing habits, investing in proper maintenance, and upgrading fixtures when necessary, you can prevent recurring toilet clogs and keep your drainage system in top condition. If all else fails, calling in a specialist ensures that the problem is diagnosed and resolved effectively.
