The UK’s top bathroom problems

Unfortunately, bathrooms have their fair share of common issues, all thanks to the high humidity levels, constant water flow, and daily use. From clogs and leaks to unsightly stains, it can sometimes feel like your bathroom is constantly in need of maintenance.

Here are the top 6 most-searched bathroom problems in the UK:

1. How to unblock a toilet – 13,000 searches

The number one most common bathroom problem was a blocked toilet, with 13,000 people searching for 'how to unblock a toilet.’ Nothing quite spoils your day like realising your toilet isn't flushing properly when you need it to, and with significant searches for this issue, it's something many people have experienced.

Some of the most common reasons for a blocked toilet include:

• Flushing too much toilet paper
• Flushing non-flushable items like wipes or sanitary products
• A blockage in the drainpipe

"To start, try using a plunger, as this is usually the best option when it comes to unblocking a toilet without causing any accidental damage," says Brian. "Make sure the plunger covers the bottom of the toilet bowl completely, then give it a few strong pumps. The suction should break up the blockage and get the water flowing freely again."

"If you don't have a plunger to hand, there's no need to worry! Another option is using baking soda and vinegar – something most people have lying around at home anyway. Just pour a cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl, then add two cups of white vinegar. This causes a chemical reaction that creates carbon dioxide gas, leading to a fizzing effect that breaks through limescale. Let it fizz for 30 minutes to an hour, then flush to check if it's cleared."

"For tougher blockages, a drain snake – also known as a toilet auger – is a great option," Brian adds. "Carefully push it down the drain via the toilet bowl, twist it to loosen any stubborn blockages and hook them onto the auger, and pull it out slowly."

For more information, see our detailed step-by-step guide to unblocking your toilet.

2. How to unblock a sink – 3,800 searches

A blocked bathroom sink is a common issue, with 3,800 searches showing just how often people run into this problem. There's nothing worse than trying to wash your hands or brush your teeth only to be greeted with a sink that refuses to drain, but thankfully, you don't always need to call a plumber.

Some of the most common causes of a blocked sink include hair or soap scum buildup, excessive use of products or oils, or even a clogged drainpipe.

Brian suggests:"One of the easiest ways to clear a blocked sink is a simple method you can do yourself. Start by pouring some washing-up liquid down the drain and leave it to sit for about 15 minutes. The liquid helps break down grease and grime that might be stuck in the pipe.”

"Next, put the kettle on and let the water settle for a couple of minutes after it's finished boiling, then pour it down the drain. This helps clear away anything that might be causing the blockage. Just be cautious if you have plastic pipes, as using boiling water could damage them if they are old or brittle."

"If that doesn't do the trick, you can also try using a plunger or, if you don't have one, a drain snake," Brian suggests. "Gently push the snake into the drain, twist it to loosen any stubborn debris, and slowly pull it out."

3. Dripping taps – 2,600 searches

A dripping tap is more than just an annoying sound – it's also one of the biggest bathroom problems in the UK, with 2,600 searches for 'dripping tap' every month. The constant drip, drip, drip, especially at night, can keep you awake and drive you mad, but it's also a sign of an underlying issue that needs fixing before it leads to bigger problems, like a leak or corroded taps.

Some of the most common causes of a dripping tap include:

• Worn-out washers or O-rings
• Corroded valve seats
• High water pressure
• Poor installation

"If you've got a tap that's constantly dripping, it's probably due to worn-out parts, like washers or O-rings. Thankfully, this is a relatively easy fix. Start by turning off the water supply to prevent flooding, then remove the tap handle and access the valve or cartridge, depending on your tap model. Check the washers and O-rings for wear and replace them if necessary," says Brian.

To learn how to do this, read our guide on how to replace a tap washer.

Brian adds: "If you're not sure whether high water pressure is causing the drip, try checking with a pressure gauge. These can be found at most hardware stores or purchased online and typically come with a screw-on connector that can attach to your tap. Too much pressure can force water through seals, causing leaks, and the sweet spot for household water pressure is between 40 and 80 psi. If the pressure's too high, you may need to adjust the regulator."

4. Low-pressure shower head – 1,800 searches

Nothing's more frustrating than stepping into your shower after a long day only to be greeted by a trickle instead of a powerful stream. A low-pressure shower is a problem many UK homeowners face – with 1,800 people searching for a solution.

Some possible reasons for low pressure in your shower include a blocked showerhead, faulty shut-off valves, a leak in the plumbing, and even issues with the water supply itself.

"To solve low water pressure in your shower, it's important to check your showerhead first," says Brian. "A blocked showerhead is often the culprit, and it's an easy fix. You can remove the showerhead by unscrewing it from the hose and letting it soak in a sink or bucket filled with vinegar to break down any mineral deposits. Or, for an even easier solution, fill a plastic zip-loc bag with vinegar and tie it around the showerhead using an elastic band. Once it's clean, either reattach the head or remove the bag and see if the pressure improves."

"If the showerhead isn't the problem, you'll want to check your shut-off valves. The easiest way to check if your valves are fully open is by turning them counterclockwise. If they don't turn any further, they're fully open, and if they do, make sure you're turning them all the way to the open position. If the valves are stuck or seem partially closed, this could be reducing the water pressure."

Brian also advises: "If you're still not noticing any improvements after trying both methods, you might be dealing with issues in the water supply itself, like low pressure from the mains. If this is the case, it might be worth getting a plumber to assess the issue or considering installing a water pressure booster pump."

5. Toilet not flushing – 1,700 searches

It's a situation we've all experienced at least once: you go to flush the toilet, but nothing happens. No matter how hard you press the flush handle or push the button, the toilet simply refuses to cooperate. 

There are a few potential causes for a toilet not flushing, such as:

• A clog in the drain
• A faulty flapper
• A low water level in the tank
• A problem with the flush handle or chain

Brian explains: "Start by checking the water level in the tank because the flush won’t work properly if it’s too low. If the water is low, you can adjust the level by tweaking the float or fill valve. For the float valve, locate the float arm (a long rod attached to a ball or float) and gently bend it to raise the water level, or use a dial or screw adjustment if your toilet has one."

“Next, inspect the fill valve, which controls water flow into the tank. If it’s clogged or malfunctioning, turn off the water, remove the valve, and clean any debris blocking it.”

"If the water level is fine, you might have a blockage in the toilet drain. Use a plunger to try and dislodge the blockage. If that doesn’t work, check the flapper at the bottom of the tank. A worn-out or poorly sealed flapper can prevent enough water from entering the bowl – replacing it should solve the issue," Brian says.

"Finally, if none of this works, check the flush handle or chain. Loose or disconnected parts can prevent the flush mechanism from activating. Tighten or reconnect them to fix the problem."

6. How to remove limescale from the toilet – 1,400 searches

Limescale typically appears as stubborn, chalky white stains around the rim and in the water tank, which can make your bathroom look dirty, even if you've just deep-cleaned it. And 1,400 people are looking for ways to remove it from their toilets.

Brian explains: "Limescale forms when hard water evaporates, leaving mineral deposits behind. The buildup can make your toilet look unsightly and may even affect how well the toilet works, especially if it's in the waterline area. Over time, these deposits harden and may block the water flow, weakening your toilet flush."

The good news is that removing limescale is fairly straightforward using the right method. Here's how to get rid of it:

1. Use white vinegar – Pour a generous amount of white vinegar around the rim of the toilet and let it sit for at least an hour, preferably overnight for more stubborn stains. The acidity in the vinegar helps break down the mineral deposits.
2. Use baking soda — If the stains are particularly stubborn, sprinkle some baking soda on top of the vinegar and let it fizz. The chemical reaction that happens when you mix vinegar and baking soda helps lift the limescale more effectively.
3. Scrub the stains – After letting the vinegar sit, use a toilet brush or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the limescale off. You might need a bit of force to dislodge any limescale still stuck to the toilet bowl, but the vinegar should have loosened up the deposits, making it easier to scrub away.

"If vinegar and baking soda don't work, you can use a store-bought descaler. There are loads of different limescale removers on the market, but always check the instructions to make sure they're safe and suitable for your toilet," Brian adds.

"Once you've successfully removed the limescale, flush the toilet a few times to clear any remaining residue. Don't forget, regular cleaning and using a descaler every few months will help keep limescale at bay."

Bonus tip: If you're dealing with heavy limescale buildup, you can use a pumice stone to gently scrub the affected areas. This cleaning tool has a rough, abrasive surface that’s ideal for chipping away at stubborn limescale that has fused itself onto the toilet. However, make sure you wet the stone and the toilet surface beforehand and use a light touch to avoid scratching.

For more tips on tackling limescale, check out our comprehensive guide on removing limescale from your bathroom.