Why Your Toilet Keeps Clogging (and How to Fix It for Good)
A toilet that clogs once in a while is annoying, but when it becomes a frequent problem, it can disrupt your household and leave you feeling frustrated. For many Cambridge homeowners, recurring toilet clogs signal deeper plumbing issues that can’t be fixed with a simple plunger.
Understanding why your toilet keeps clogging—and how to solve the problem—can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes, what you can do at home, and when it’s time to call a professional plumber.
For homeowners in Cambridge, ON, understanding the root cause of toilet clogs is the first step to finding a long-term solution.
Common Causes of Toilet Clogs
- Too Much Toilet Paper
One of the most common culprits is excessive toilet paper use. While most modern toilets can handle a reasonable amount, using thick or “luxury” toilet paper in large quantities can lead to clogs.
- Flushing the Wrong Items
Toilets are designed for human waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Items like wipes (even “flushable” ones), feminine hygiene products, paper towels, or cotton swabs don’t break down easily and can create stubborn blockages.
- Low-Flow Toilet Issues
Many homes in Cambridge still have older low-flow toilets installed in the 1990s or early 2000s. These models often lack the flushing power to clear waste properly, which can lead to frequent backups.
- Blocked Toilet Trap
The trap is the curved section of pipe inside the toilet that holds water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. If debris gets stuck there, it can restrict flow and cause clogs.
- Sewer Line Problems
If multiple toilets or drains in your home are clogging, the problem may not be with the toilet at all. Instead, tree roots, grease buildup, or collapsed sewer lines could be affecting your entire system.
How to Prevent Toilet Clogs
- Practice Smart Flushing Habits
Remind everyone in the household to flush only waste and toilet paper. A small wastebasket in the bathroom helps discourage flushing non-flushable items.
- Switch Toilet Paper Brands
Opt for a thinner, septic-safe toilet paper that breaks down more easily. This small change can reduce clogs dramatically.
- Upgrade to a Modern Toilet
Newer toilets are designed with improved flushing technology. Dual-flush or pressure-assisted models are much more effective at preventing clogs.
- Routine Maintenance
Regular plumbing inspections can spot developing issues in your drain lines before they become major blockages.
- Know When to Call a Plumber
If your toilet clogs multiple times a week despite good habits, there’s likely an underlying issue that requires professional attention.
What to Do When a Toilet Clogs
Most people reach for the plunger first—and in many cases, that’s all you need. But if plunging doesn’t work, you can try:
- A toilet auger to break up deeper clogs.
- Hot water and dish soap to loosen buildup.
- Calling a professional if DIY methods don’t solve it.
Final Thoughts
A constantly clogging toilet isn’t just a nuisance—it’s often a warning sign of bigger plumbing issues. With proper habits, routine care, and the right upgrades, you can keep your bathroom running smoothly.
If you’re tired of battling a stubborn toilet in your Cambridge home, Reliant Plumbing can help. Our licensed team will diagnose the issue, clear blockages, and recommend long-term solutions.