⚠ Danger first: gas smell, sparking, or water near outlets? Get out and call 911.

Toilet Overflowing and Won't Stop? Do This Now

Toilet running over? You can usually stop it in under a minute.

Call (000) 000-0000 TEMPSend details

1. Stop the water in seconds

1. Turn the shutoff valve behind the toilet, near the floor, clockwise until it stops.
2. No valve or it's stuck? Lift the tank lid and raise the float (ball or cup) to stop the fill. Then shut the main water valve.

2. Don't flush again

1. Every flush adds more water. Wait until the bowl drains down.

3. If more than one drain backs up

1. Water coming up in a tub, shower, or floor drain too? That points to a main sewer line backup. Stop using all water in the house and call.

4. Clean up safely

1. Wear gloves. Overflow water can carry germs.
2. Soak up water fast so it doesn't seep into the ceiling below.
3. Water dripping through the ceiling under the bathroom? See our ceiling leak guide.

Photos first

Photograph the overflow and any damage before you clean up.

General guidance only, not professional advice. Your home may differ. When in doubt, stop and call a licensed plumber or electrician.

Related: Sewage Backup emergency help · Flooding emergency help · How to shut off your main water valve