Toilet Backing Up Into the Bathtub
Situation summary
Water comes up into the bathtub when you flush the toilet.
Immediate steps to limit damage
- Wipe up any standing water in the tub
- Avoid flushing again
- Avoid running water in the sink or shower for now
- If the toilet may overflow, shut off the toilet’s water supply valve
Can you try anything here?
No.
Why you should not try anything
This situation often points to a blockage beyond the toilet itself in a shared drain line. Basic attempts at the toilet usually do not reach the source of the backup. Trying to fix it yourself can make the problem worse.
When professional help is needed
- Water backs up into the tub or shower
- Water backs up into a sink drain
- You hear gurgling sounds from drains
- The problem happens every time you flush
- Water still backs up after you stop flushing and avoid using other drains
- Water starts rising in the toilet bowl
Background (optional)
When multiple fixtures are affected, the main drain line is often involved. The main drain line is the shared pipe that carries wastewater from multiple fixtures to the sewer.