What If I Accidentally Flushed Paper Towels Down the Toilet?

Accidents happen, and sometimes, it might seem like a good idea to flush paper towels down the toilet, but this can pose a serious risk to your plumbing system. While it may not be immediately clogged, there are several steps you can take to ensure your toilet continues to function properly. Here’s what you should do.

The Risks of Flushing Paper Towels

Flushing paper towels down the toilet can be problematic because they do not break down as easily as toilet paper. While the toilet might seem to work fine at first, over time, the paper can create a blockage, especially if it clumps together with other waste or if more waste is added to the system.

Steps to Consider if the Toilet is Not Clogged

If the toilet is functioning normally and not clogged, you might be tempted to leave it and do nothing. However, it's important to take precautionary steps to avoid potential issues in the future.

Do Nothing Risky

If the toilet is functioning normally and not clogged, it’s best to leave it as is. Attempting to remove or dissolve the paper towels yourself can be risky and may exacerbate the problem rather than solve it.

Remove the Paper Towels

If you can access the toilet's trap (the curved pipe under the toilet), you might try the following steps:

Using a toilet auger: This tool can help grab or push the paper towels further down the line. You can find a toilet auger at most home improvement stores, and it is relatively easy to use. Removing the toilet: This is a more complex task and should only be done if you are comfortable with plumbing tasks. Ensure you have the appropriate tools and understand the process to avoid causing further damage.

It's important to note that if you are not confident in your ability to perform these tasks, it’s best to consult a professional plumber.

Dissolving Paper Towels

Unfortunately, there are no reliable methods to dissolve paper towels in a toilet. They are designed to be absorbent and can take a long time to break down, even with the added water and force from the flush. Using chemicals or other substances to dissolve the paper towels is not recommended and can be harmful to your plumbing system.

If You Do Nothing

If you do nothing, the paper towels can continue to build up in the toilet and eventually cause a clog. This can be especially problematic if you continue to use the toilet regularly. Over time, the paper towels may get lodged in the drain, especially if they clump together or combine with other waste items.

Recent research suggests that most toilets can handle a paper towel or two, but it depends on the thickness and strength of the paper towels and the strength of your toilet's flush. When we flush a toilet, the items in the bowl go through an S-shaped tunnel, then enter a half-gallon to a gallon and a half of water that has air forcing it through the drain pipes. This mixture then enters a larger drain pipe in the floor under the toilet, which eventually leads to an even larger drain pipe that sends the water out of the building.

Potential for Clogging

Therefore, if the paper towels didn’t get hung up in the S tunnel trap in the toilet, they were likely already miles away in the sewage system. However, it's important to monitor how the toilet is functioning. If you notice any slow drainage or backup, it may be time to take action and consider removing the paper towels.

Recommendations

Monitor the Situation: Keep an eye on how the toilet is functioning. If you notice any slow drainage or backup, it may be time to take action. Prevent Future Issues: Avoid flushing any non-flushable items in the future to prevent similar issues. Seek Professional Help: If you experience any problems, consulting a plumber would be a wise decision to avoid more significant plumbing issues.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your toilet continues to function properly and avoid potential plumbing issues in the future. Remember, it's often better to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to maintaining your home's plumbing system.