How to Unclog a Toilet Clogged with Paper Towels

AvatarByLiana Farrell Toilet Queries

How to Unclog Paper Towels From a Toilet

Paper towels are a convenient way to clean up spills, but they can also be a major pain when they clog your toilet. If you’ve ever had to deal with a clogged toilet full of paper towels, you know how frustrating it can be. But don’t worry, there are a few simple steps you can take to clear the clog and get your toilet back in working order.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of unclogging a toilet clogged with paper towels. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions, as well as tips and tricks to help you get the job done quickly and easily. So if you’re ready to learn how to unclog a toilet, read on!

Step Instructions Image
1 Get a plunger and some hot water.
2 Pour the hot water into the toilet bowl.
3 Place the plunger over the drain and push down and up quickly several times.
4 If the toilet is still clogged, repeat steps 2 and 3.
5 If the toilet is still clogged, you may need to use a drain snake.

Identifying the Problem

What are the signs of a clogged toilet?

There are a few signs that your toilet is clogged:

  • The toilet won’t flush all the way.
  • The toilet bowl fills up and overflows.
  • The toilet makes gurgling or bubbling noises.
  • There is water backing up into the sink or bathtub.

What causes paper towels to clog a toilet?

Paper towels are a common cause of toilet clogs because they are not biodegradable. When flushed down the toilet, paper towels can clump together and form a large blockage that can prevent the toilet from flushing properly.

How to tell if the clog is in the toilet bowl or the drainpipe?

If the toilet bowl is filling up and overflowing, the clog is likely in the toilet bowl. If the toilet is making gurgling or bubbling noises, the clog is likely in the drainpipe.

Preventing Paper Towels from Clogging Your Toilet

There are a few things you can do to prevent paper towels from clogging your toilet:

  • Dispose of paper towels properly. Paper towels should be thrown in the trash, not flushed down the toilet.
  • Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. This includes things like feminine hygiene products, diapers, and pet waste.
  • Keep your toilet clean. A clean toilet is less likely to clog. Make sure to flush the toilet regularly and clean it with a toilet brush at least once a week.

Clogged toilets are a common problem, but they can be easily prevented by following these tips. By disposing of paper towels properly, avoiding flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, and keeping your toilet clean, you can help keep your toilet clog-free.

Additional Tips for Unclogging a Toilet Clogged with Paper Towels

If you have a toilet that is clogged with paper towels, there are a few things you can try to unclog it.

  • Try using a plunger. A plunger can be a quick and easy way to unclog a toilet. Simply place the plunger over the drain and push and pull it up and down several times.
  • Use a toilet auger. A toilet auger is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the toilet drain to break up the clog. To use a toilet auger, first attach the auger to the end of a drill. Then, insert the auger into the toilet drain and turn on the drill. The auger will spin and break up the clog, allowing the water to drain.
  • Call a plumber. If you are unable to unclog the toilet yourself, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience necessary to unclog the toilet quickly and efficiently.

By following these tips, you can help prevent paper towels from clogging your toilet and keep your toilet clog-free.

Unclogging a Toilet Clogged with Paper Towels

Paper towels are a common cause of toilet clogs. They are made of a thin, absorbent material that can easily clog the drainpipe. If you flush a paper towel down the toilet, it can wrap around other debris and create a blockage.

There are a few different ways to unclog a toilet clogged with paper towels. You can use a plunger, a toilet auger, or a chemical drain cleaner.

How to use a plunger to unclog a toilet

A plunger is a simple but effective tool for unclogging toilets. It works by creating a seal around the drainpipe and forcing air into the clog. This can break up the clog and allow it to be flushed away.

To use a plunger, follow these steps:

1. Place the plunger over the drain opening.
2. Push down on the plunger and release it quickly. Repeat this action several times.
3. Flush the toilet.

If the clog does not clear after a few attempts, you may need to use a different method.

How to use a toilet auger to unclog a toilet

A toilet auger is a long, flexible tool that is used to clear clogs in the toilet drainpipe. It works by inserting the auger into the drainpipe and rotating it. This can help to break up the clog and remove it from the pipe.

To use a toilet auger, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Remove the toilet seat.
3. Insert the auger into the drainpipe until you reach the clog.
4. Rotate the auger clockwise until the clog is cleared.
5. Flush the toilet.

If the clog does not clear after a few attempts, you may need to use a different method.

How to use a chemical drain cleaner to unclog a toilet

Chemical drain cleaners are a harsh but effective way to unclog toilets. They work by dissolving the clog and allowing it to be flushed away.

To use a chemical drain cleaner, follow these steps:

1. Read the instructions on the product label.
2. Pour the chemical drain cleaner into the toilet bowl.
3. Let the chemical drain cleaner sit for the amount of time specified on the label.
4. Flush the toilet.

If the clog does not clear after a few attempts, you may need to use a different method.

If you are unable to unclog your toilet using these methods, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to use specialized tools and equipment to clear the clog.

Getting Professional Help

When to call a plumber

You should call a plumber if you are unable to unclog your toilet using the methods described above. You should also call a plumber if you experience any of the following problems:

  • The toilet is overflowing
  • The toilet is making gurgling noises
  • The toilet is not flushing properly

What to expect when you call a plumber

When you call a plumber, they will come to your home and assess the situation. They will then discuss with you the best course of action to take. The plumber may use a plunger, a toilet auger, or a chemical drain cleaner to clear the clog. If the clog is severe, the plumber may need to remove the toilet and clear the clog from the drainpipe.

How much does it cost to have a plumber unclog a toilet?

The cost of having a plumber unclog a toilet will vary depending on the severity of the clog and the location of your home. The average cost of having a plumber unclog a toilet is between $100 and $200.

If you are experiencing problems with a clogged toilet, it is important to take action to resolve the issue as soon as possible. A clogged toilet can be a health hazard and can also damage your plumbing system. If you are unable to unclog the toilet yourself, it is important to call a plumber to get the job done right.

How do I unclog a toilet that is clogged with paper towels?

1. Try using a plunger. This is the most common and effective way to unclog a toilet. Place the plunger over the drain and push and pull it up and down several times. The suction created by the plunger should help to break up the clog and push it through the drain.
2. Use a drain snake. If the plunger doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that is inserted into the drain to loosen and remove the clog.
3. Pour a chemical drain cleaner down the drain. Chemical drain cleaners can be effective at breaking down clogs, but they should be used with caution. Follow the directions on the product label carefully.
4. Call a plumber. If you have tried all of the above methods and the clog is still not cleared, you may need to call a plumber.

What should I do if I accidentally flush a paper towel down the toilet?

If you accidentally flush a paper towel down the toilet, you should try to remove it as soon as possible. The longer the paper towel is in the toilet, the more likely it is to become stuck and cause a clog.

You can try to remove the paper towel using a plunger or a drain snake. If you are unable to remove the paper towel yourself, you may need to call a plumber.

What are some things I can do to prevent paper towels from clogging my toilet?

There are a few things you can do to prevent paper towels from clogging your toilet:

  • Don’t flush paper towels down the toilet. This is the most important thing you can do to prevent paper towels from clogging your toilet.
  • Use a trash can instead of the toilet for paper towels. This will help to keep your toilet clear of clogs.
  • Rinse paper towels before flushing them down the toilet. This will help to break down the paper towels and make them less likely to clog the toilet.
  • Don’t flush too many paper towels at once. Flushing too many paper towels at once can overload the toilet and cause a clog.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your toilet clear of clogs and prevent paper towels from becoming a problem.

there are a few different ways to unclog a toilet that is clogged with paper towels. The most important thing is to try to avoid this situation in the first place by only flushing toilet paper and other items that are designed to be flushed. If a clog does occur, you can try using a plunger, a wet/dry vacuum, or a chemical drain cleaner. If these methods do not work, you may need to call a plumber.

Here are some key takeaways to remember:

  • Only flush toilet paper and other items that are designed to be flushed.
  • If a clog does occur, try using a plunger, a wet/dry vacuum, or a chemical drain cleaner.
  • If these methods do not work, you may need to call a plumber.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your toilets clear and functioning properly.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.