To avoid blocked toilets, it's essential to understand what causes them in the first place. Here are some of the most common culprits behind toilet blockages:

• Flushing inappropriate items: Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. Flushing anything else, such as feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, or cotton balls, can lead to blockages.

• Hard water deposits: If your plumbing system has hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate in the pipes and cause blockages over time.

• Foreign objects: Sometimes accidental items, such as toys or jewelry, can fall into the toilet and cause blockages.

• Poor flushing: Older toilets or low-flow models may struggle to flush enough water to clear away waste, leading to blockages.