It’s not a sight anyone wants to see. You just want to flush the toilet and never think about it again. Unfortunately, sometimes when you push that button, the water rises up and overflows instead of draining away as it should.

If you’re quick, you can shut the water off in time to avoid a big mess. If not, well, we understand your frustration.

How do you avoid this problem in the future? Keep an eye out for these 5 causes of overflowing drains.

1. Toilet Paper

It’s okay to throw toilet paper in the toilet, that’s what it is designed for. But too much toilet paper can build up and cause blockages. Be especially careful when using thicker quilted toilet paper.

If the water is still draining slightly, you may be able to dislodge the blockage with a plunger, but otherwise, you’ll have to call a plumber.

2. Other Hygiene Products

Many people don’t realize it, but it’s horrible for drains as well as the environment to flush hygiene products down the toilet. Tampons, sanitary pads, panty liners, and anything else of the like don’t belong going down the drain.

3. Cat Litter

It might seem logical to toss your kitty’s #2 in the toilet. However, once it has cat litter stuck to it, it becomes a blockage problem waiting to happen.

Cat litter is designed to absorb moisture, clump together, and expand so you can easily clean out the box. Stop and think for a moment what that means for a constricted space like a pipe.

4. Objects and Toys

Kids are notorious for tossing objects into toilets that really shouldn’t be there. If you have a rambunctious bundle of joy, keep the bathroom door closed and always supervise them when they are in the bathroom to avoid the wrong things ending up in your pipes.

5. Food Waste and Grease

Toilet drains aren’t the only ones that can overflow. Kitchen sink drains overflow and food waste and grease are often the culprits. Grease that is liquid when hot will congeal and turn into sludge in your pipes as it cools. Food waste can get stuck and start to stink long before it decomposes. Never put either down your kitchen drain.

Calling a Plumber

You can deal with some small blockages on your own. However, for larger, more sturdy blockages, you’ll need professional help.

How do plumbers clear drains? Sometimes, they can get it out with a special plumber’s snake. Other times, high-pressure water jets are used to clear blocked pipe. Regardless, a trained professional will know best how to deal with your blockage.

Enjoy a Clear Drain Once More

Do your best to keep anything other than human waste and toilet paper out of your pipes and you’ll enjoy drains that don’t overflow. However, if trouble does crop up, know when it’s time to call in a professional before things get worse.