Tell me more ×
Home Improvement Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for contractors and serious DIYers. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 2 down vote favorite

I just accidentally flushed my toothbrush down the toilet. (Bathroom multitasking: bad idea.)

The toilet still flushes, but it's draining more slowly.

What should I do?

EDIT

Phew! After 15 harrowing minutes I got it out with a coat hanger.

I've learned my lesson. Multitasking? Just say no.

share|improve this question
Rubber gloves and a little fishing around? It's possible it's lodged just around the curve at the bottom of the toilet. – Niall C. Apr 5 '12 at 18:11
Thanks. I couldn't get at it with my (gloved) hands. Now I'm fishing around with an unravelled coat hanger... – dB' Apr 5 '12 at 18:15

1 Answer

up vote 5 down vote

As the comments suggested, first try and grab it with your hands. If it's passed the point you can reach, you will likely need to use a Toilet Auger to dislodge it.

Toilet Auguer

Tooth brushes tend to be problematic because of their shape relative to the trap in the toilet - they can really get wedged in there! Worst case scenario it might not be removable.

share|improve this answer
Fortunately this wasn't necessary in my case, but thanks for the answer anyway. I'll upvote it as soon as I get enough reputation. – dB' Apr 5 '12 at 18:26
1  
A last resort before giving up on the toilet is to shutoff the supply, disassemble it to remove the base, take the base outside and hit it with a garden hose on full blast from the bottom, reversing the flow of water and hopefully dislodging the obstruction. – BMitch♦ Apr 6 '12 at 2:27
@BMitch thats a really good idea, I never thought of that! – Steven Apr 6 '12 at 17:14

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.