Toilet Tune-ups

The toilet is arguably the most important seat in the house. If your toilet isn’t flushing well, don’t just live with it! You can probably fix the problem in less than 30 minutes. We’ve put together nine simple tips to help you get the best possible flush every time.

- Brad Holden

9 super-simple ways to optimize your flush

1 Clean the rim jets

Over time, particularly if you have hard water, mineral deposits can plug the rim jets. If you notice the sides of the bowl aren’t clean after flushing, the rim jets likely need cleaning. You’ll need a mirror to see them. Depending on the size of the jets, use a coat hanger or small screwdriver to clean them out.

2 Get a flapper with a chain float

A chain float helps the flapper stay open a bit longer, allowing more water to enter the bowl for a better flush. You can adjust the float up or down on the chain to fine-tune how long the flapper remains open.

3 Switch to single-ply

Sometimes a poor flush is caused by partial drain clogs. The majority of these clogs are caused by toilet paper, particularly the luxuriously soft two- and three-ply varieties. Switching to single-ply toilet paper can help because it breaks down faster, even if you use the same amount of toilet paper.

4 Try a different flapper