Oops! Flushed It? Here’s What to Do Next

Flushed Something Important? Don’t Panic—Read This

Flushed Something Down the Toilet?

Here’s A Step-by-Step Guide!

We’ve all been there—one moment you’re using the toilet, and the next, something important (or embarrassing) gets flushed away. Whether it’s a wedding ring, a toy, or a favorite piece of clothing, it’s easy to panic. But don’t worry! With the right steps, you can increase the chances of recovering the item, or at least minimize the damage.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do when you accidentally flush something down the toilet. Keep reading to learn how to act fast, and what to do if your item is stuck, lost, or causing a clog.

Step 1: Stay Calm

The first thing you need to do is take a deep breath. Yes, it’s frustrating, but staying calm will help you think clearly and prevent you from making the situation worse. Whether it’s a family heirloom or just something valuable, panicking is not going to help.

Step 2: Assess the Situation

What exactly did you flush down the toilet? Is it something small or something larger? Understanding the size and material of the object will help you decide how to proceed.

For Small Items (Jewelry, Coins, etc.)

If the item is small and you’re sure it’s within the toilet bowl or has been flushed but is still visible in the trap or drain pipe, you may have a better chance of retrieving it.

For Larger Items (Toys, Cloth, etc.)

Larger items may have traveled further down the pipes. While this doesn’t necessarily mean the item is lost forever, it might require more work to retrieve.

Step 3: Try to Retrieve It Immediately

If the item is still visible in the toilet, you can attempt to retrieve it. Here’s how:

1. Use Tongs or Pliers

Don’t reach into the toilet with your hands. Use a pair of tongs, pliers, or a long pair of kitchen tongs to grab the object. If it’s within reach, carefully pull it out.

2. Use a Plumbing Snake

If the object is further down the drain and you can’t reach it by hand, you can try using a plumbing snake (also called an auger). A small, handheld snake can help grab and pull out small items stuck in the trap or drain. You can purchase a snake at most hardware stores or call a plumber if you’re unsure how to use one.

3. Check the Toilet Trap

Sometimes, an item may get stuck in the toilet’s trap (the bend in the pipe just below the bowl). If you’re comfortable with basic plumbing, you can remove the toilet from the floor to access the trap and retrieve the object. But if you’re unsure, it’s best to leave this to a professional plumber to avoid any damage.

Step 4: Don’t Flush Again!

This is a big one—do not flush the toilet again! Flushing the toilet will push the object further down the drain, making it even harder (or impossible) to retrieve. The best thing to do is stop using the toilet altogether until you’ve addressed the situation.

If the toilet has already been flushed and the item is gone, don’t worry—there are still ways to deal with it.

Step 5: When to Call a Professional

If you’re unable to retrieve the object on your own or suspect that it’s causing a major clog, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. A plumbing professional has the equipment and expertise to locate and remove the object safely without causing damage to your pipes.

A plumber can use advanced tools like a camera inspection to see inside the pipes and identify exactly where the object is located. They can also use hydro-jetting or other techniques to safely remove blockages.

Step 6: How to Prevent Accidents in the Future

Now that you’ve navigated the aftermath of flushing something accidentally, you’ll want to avoid this situation in the future.

Here are a few tips for preventing accidental flushes:

Keep the Toilet Lid Closed:

Always keep the lid down, especially if you have young children or pets who might toss things into the toilet.

Don’t Flush Anything Except Toilet Paper:

Only toilet paper and human waste should go down the toilet. Avoid flushing tissues, wipes, or other items that could cause clogs.

Educate Kids and Guests:

If you have children or frequent visitors, let them know what should and should not go in the toilet. This can prevent many accidents from happening in the first place.

Final Thoughts

Accidentally flushing something down the toilet is a common mistake, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Acting quickly, staying calm, and knowing the right steps to take can save you time, money, and frustration. If all else fails, a professional plumber can help you recover your lost item or clear up any clogs caused by the mishap.

Have you flushed something by mistake? Don’t worry—we’re here to help. Contact Shelby Mechanical for expert plumbing services and tips on keeping your plumbing in top shape.