Toilets play a vital role in any bathroom. We often take them for granted until they malfunction, causing a major inconvenience. While some toilet issues may arise from poor quality, others result from flushing inappropriate items. One common culprit that many overlook is cotton rounds.
Cotton rounds, balls, pads, and swabs are similar products in various forms, all of which pose a threat to plumbing systems. Unlike toilet paper that disintegrates in pipes, cotton products do not break down, potentially leading to blockages. Moreover, cotton is absorbent, causing the products to expand as they move through the pipes, potentially clogging the 3-inch diameter standard toilet pipes.
What to do if you accidentally flush cotton rounds down the toilet
Mistakes happen, and sometimes, items like cotton rounds get flushed accidentally. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s what you can do:
If the blockage is not severe yet, you can attempt to break it up by turning off the water, using a plunger, and then flushing. For more stubborn clogs, a toilet auger can help, but ensure you use the right tool to avoid damaging the toilet. If the toilet is completely clogged and overflowing, it’s time to call a professional plumber to avoid costly repairs.
Preventing such issues is simple: avoid flushing items like cotton products down the toilet. Stick to flushing only toilet paper to keep your toilet functioning properly and avoid unnecessary expenses.
