If you’ve been dealing with a toilet clogged with toilet paper, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in Amarillo face this frustrating problem, especially when it’s repeated over and over. Toilets are built to handle human waste and toilet paper, but excessive use of tissue or poor flushing systems can lead to persistent clogs.
At Plumbing Amarillo, we specialize in fixing everything from a clogged toilet with paper to full sewer line clogs. Let’s break down why your toilet keeps getting clogged, especially with toilet paper, and how to fix and prevent it for good.
Why Does Toilet Paper Clog the Toilet?
Toilet paper clogged toilet issues are among the most common plumbing problems we encounter. Toilet paper is designed to dissolve in water, but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to causing clogs. Here’s how it happens:
1. Too Much Toilet Paper at Once
Using large wads of toilet paper—especially plush 2-ply brands—can overwhelm your toilet’s flushing system. If the paper doesn’t dissolve quickly, it can build up in the trap or pipe and clog the toilet entirely. This is a key factor in many clogging toilet cases we see.
👉 Tip: Switch to single-ply or biodegradable toilet paper and educate your household on how much is “just enough.” Excessive use is the #1 reason for a toilet clogged with toilet paper.
2. Old or Low-Flow Toilets
Older low-flow toilets may conserve water, but many of them lack the flushing power needed to move waste and paper through your plumbing system efficiently. This makes them more prone to getting clogged with toilet paper.
If you’re tired of struggling with a toilet that keeps clogging, consider upgrading your toilet to a newer, high-efficiency model with improved flushing performance.
Related: How Much Toilet Paper Should You Use?
What Else Can Cause a Toilet to Keep Clogging?
Aside from toilet paper, other culprits can contribute to a clogged toilet paper or cause clogs altogether. Let’s explore a few.
1. Non-Flushable Items
Toilets are only meant for human waste and toilet paper. Items like wipes (even if labeled flushable), feminine products, cotton balls, paper towels, or tissues are not designed to break down. A paper towel clogged toilet is especially stubborn and often requires professional tools to clear.
Avoid flushing:
- “Flushable” wipes
- Facial tissues
- Cotton swabs
- Tampons or pads
- Paper towels
If any of these get flushed, they may mix with toilet paper and form a thick blockage. In such cases, you may need professional drain cleaning services from our licensed Amarillo plumbers.
How to Make Toilet Flush When Clogged
If you’re dealing with a toilet that won’t flush, and you suspect it’s due to toilet paper, here are a few steps on how to make a toilet flush when clogged:
- Try a Flanged Plunger: This creates a strong seal and can often push the paper through the trap.
- Use a Toilet Auger: For stubborn toilet paper clogs, a toilet auger can reach deeper and break up the blockage.
- Dissolve Toilet Paper Clog Naturally: Pour hot (not boiling) water and dish soap into the bowl. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes. This may soften the tissue enough to flush. This is a simple method on how to dissolve toilet paper clogs naturally at home.
- Call a Professional: If DIY methods fail, don’t stress. Our team offers fast, affordable solutions. Wondering how much to unclog a toilet in Amarillo? Our pricing is transparent and reasonable—call for a free quote!
Other Plumbing Issues That Mimic Toilet Paper Clogs
Sometimes, the problem goes beyond just toilet paper. If your toilet clogs frequently, even when you’re being careful, the issue might lie deeper in your plumbing system.
1. Clogged Toilet Trap
The trap is a curved section of the pipe behind the toilet. Excess toilet paper can become lodged here. We can clear the trap using specialized tools during toilet repair services.
2. Vent Stack Blockage
Your toilet uses a vent (usually on the roof) to regulate pressure. If it’s blocked, flushing becomes weak, and clogs become frequent. Gurgling sounds and sewer smells are common signs. We can diagnose and fix vent clogs during a full plumbing inspection.
3. Main Sewer Line Issues
Tree roots, debris, or broken pipes can clog the main line. These serious blockages may affect multiple drains in your home. If plunging isn’t helping, it’s time to call us for a sewer line inspection and cleaning.
Prevent Future Toilet Clogs
Here’s how to avoid the nightmare of a toilet paper clogged toilet:
- Use single-ply toilet paper
- Flush in between wiping if needed
- Never flush non-toilet paper items
- Teach children not to flush toys or trash
- Upgrade to modern toilets
- Schedule routine drain maintenance
Need Help with a Toilet Clogged with Toilet Paper? Call Plumbing Amarillo Today!
A toilet clogged with toilet paper is more than just annoying—it can lead to costly damage if left unchecked. Whether you’re dealing with a one-time blockage or a recurring clogged toilet, our expert plumbers at PlumbingAmarillo.us are ready to help.
We offer:
- Emergency Toilet Unclogging & Repair
- Full-Service Drain & Sewer Cleaning
- General Plumbing Services
- Affordable quotes and reliable service
Don’t let a simple paper clog turn into a plumbing nightmare. Contact us today and flush your worries away—literally!