HOW TO PREVENT A CLOGGED TOILET DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Simple steps to avoid emergency plumbing calls during holiday gatherings.
The holidays mean full houses, extra food, and (unfortunately) extra strain on your plumbing. A clogged toilet can bring the celebration to a halt fast, so here are practical, homeowner-friendly tips to keep things running smoothly.
HOLIDAY PREP: WHAT TO HAVE ON HAND
These basics can prevent most headaches (and emergency calls):
1. A Good Plunger
Choose a flange-style plunger — the type with a narrow extension at the bottom.
It creates a better seal than standard “cup” sink plungers.
2. A Toilet Auger (Toilet Snake)
Designed specifically for toilets.
Perfect for clearing something stuck just beyond the trap.
3. Rubber Gloves
Long, waterproof gloves for quick responses.
4. Disposable Towels or Rags
Helpful for cleanup and protecting the floor around the toilet base.
5. A Small Bathroom Trash Can
This quietly prevents guests from flushing the wrong things.
6. Gentle Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Some harsh cleaners can damage plumbing. A gel-style cleaner keeps things moving.
WHAT NOT TO FLUSH… EVER
Even “flushable” items can cause major holiday clogs.
Do not flush:
“Flushable” wipes
Paper towels
Tissues
Cotton balls / rounds
Q-tips
Feminine products
Diapers or pull-ups
Dental floss
Cat litter
Hair
Grease or oils
Toys / small items (kids + curiosity = trouble)
Only these should go into a toilet:
✔️ Human waste
✔️ Toilet paper
HOW TO KEEP TOILETS RUNNING SMOOTHLY
A few simple habits make a big difference:
Use moderate amounts of toilet paper
Flush twice if needed (midway + at the end)
Keep the lid closed near small children
Place a polite “No wipes in toilet” sign or note near the trash can
(Tiny detail — huge impact)
WHAT TO DO IF A CLOG HAPPENS
1. Stop the water from rising
Remove the tank lid and gently press the flapper down.
This prevents overflow.
2. Plunge with a tight seal
Slow, steady plunges work better than fast, aggressive ones.
3. Use a toilet auger if plunging doesn’t work
A quick turn can dislodge items stuck in the trap.
4. Still clogged?
The blockage is likely deeper in the line.
Avoid repeated flushing to prevent overflow — call a plumber before things get worse.
PLAN AHEAD AND AVOID HOLIDAY EMERGENCIES
If you know your bathroom gets a workout during gatherings, consider preventive steps before guests arrive:
Fix weak flushes
Address slow drains
Get older toilets inspected
Check for signs of past leaks
Need help with a clog or want a pre-holiday checkup?
TBros has been Boston’s trusted plumbers for over 125 years, and we’ll be right over.
👉 Ask about joining the TBros Customer Care Plan for priority plumbing support
