A common question most plumbers get asked here at our plumbing company is whether or not toilet paper can block drains. It’s a valid question and one that we’re happy to answer. The simple answer is: yes, toilet paper can block drains. However, it doesn’t happen as often as you might think. Toilet paper is designed to break down in the water, which means it will usually just flush through your pipes without any issues. But there are exceptions to every rule. If you have an older home with pipes that are narrower than today’s standard, or if you flush something else down the toilet that doesn’t break down (we’re looking at you, wet wipes!), then you run the risk of clogging your pipes. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why toilet paper can block drains and what you can do to prevent it from happening in your home.
The types of toilet paper that can block drains
There are many types of toilet paper that can block drains. The most common type is the recycled paper toilet paper. This type of toilet paper is made from recycled paper and is often times very thin. This type of toilet paper can easily become clogged in your drain.
Another type of toilet paper that can block drains is quilted toilet paper. Quilted toilet paper is thicker than recycled toilet paper and has a lot of texture to it. This type of toilet paper can also become clogged in your drain if it isn’t flushed properly.
The last type of toilet paper that can block drains is scented toilet paper. Scented toilet papers often have oils or perfumes added to them which can cause a build-up in your drain over time. If you use scented toilet paper, be sure to flush it frequently to prevent a clog.
How to prevent your toilet paper from blocking drains
If you’re wondering how to prevent your toilet paper from blocking drains, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure that you’re using the right kind of toilet paper. Some types of toilet paper are more likely to cause clogs than others. If you’re not sure which type to use, ask your local plumber or hardware store employee for advice.
Second, don’t flush anything other than toilet paper down your toilet. This includes feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, and even “flushable” cleansing wipes. These items don’t break down like toilet paper does and can quickly cause a clog.
Finally, if you have a septic tank, be mindful of what you flush. Too much toilet paper can result in a blockage in your septic tank’s leach field lines. This can be a costly repair so it’s best to avoid it if possible.
If you follow these simple tips, you should be able to prevent your toilet paper from blocking drains.
What to do if your toilet paper has already blocked your drain
If your toilet paper has already blocked your drain, you’ll need to take immediate action to clear the blockage. You can begin by trying to flush the toilet a few times to see if that clears the blockage. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to reach for a plunger. Put the plunger over the hole in the bottom of the toilet bowl and push and pull the plunger up and down vigorously. The suction from the plunger should help to break up the blockage and clear the drain. If that doesn’t work, you may need to use a plumber’s snake or an auger to clear the blockage.
A professional plumber can help you clear a blocked drain quickly and efficiently. Seek advice from a professional if you are unsure of how to clear the blockage yourself. They are experts in the field and have all the necessary tools to get the job done quickly and correctly.
Conclusion
Now that you know the answer to the question “can toilet paper block drains?” you can be more mindful of what you flush down your toilet. To prevent your toilet paper from blocking drains, make sure you’re using the right kind of toilet paper and only flushing toilet paper down your toilet. If you think your blocked drains by toilet paper, the best course of action is to contact a professional plumber like Ruttley Services to have it cleared out.
