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How to Prevent a Clogged Toilet

Know what not to flush! Curious children often flush things like toys and other objects down the toilet, just to see what happens. 9 times out of 10, it will lead to a clogged toilet, or worse, an overflow. Knowing what can and what cannot be flushed down the toilet can help you avoid serious plumbing problems.

What Not To Flush

  • Facial tissues

  • Wipes, napkins, paper towels

  • Dental floss

  • Coffee grounds

  • Medications

  • Plastic

  • Diapers

What To Flush 

  • Toilet paper

  • Human waste

Not sure if an item can be flushed? It’s better to be safe than sorry – if you’re unsure, throw it in the trash instead or try this little trick. Fill two bowls with water. Put toilet paper in one bowl and the item you’re curious about in the other. Swish them both around and then let them sit for an hour. When you return, you’ll see the difference between flushable and not flushable.

Proper Flushing Technique

Ever wonder why the toilet clogs even when you only flush “flushable” items? It may be because you are flushing too much of the item at a time or you are not holding down the lever long enough. Don’t flush large wads with one flush – large amounts may ball up so that only outer portion dissolves which will leave you with a clog.

If your toilet is a chronic clogger, it may need the attention of a plumber. Give the experts at Uptown Plumbing a call and we’ll take care of the problem for you. Don’t forget to connect with us on Google+!

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