How to Keep Your Bathroom Running Smoothly with a House Full of Guests

The holidays are here — and that often means a house full of family, friends, and nonstop activity. Between showers, toilet flushes, and constant sink use, your plumbing system is about to work overtime. The last thing you want is a clogged toilet or a slow drain during the busiest time of the year.
Here are a few professional plumbing tips to help you keep your bathroom running smoothly — no matter how many guests come to stay.

1. Check for Leaks Before Guests Arrive

Before the holiday chaos begins, take a few minutes to check your bathroom for leaks. Inspect around the toilet base, under the sink, and around the shower connections. Even a small drip can waste gallons of water and lead to bigger issues later. Tightening a loose fitting or replacing a worn-out washer now can prevent a last-minute plumbing emergency.

2. Make Sure Toilets Are Flushing Properly

A weak or slow-flushing toilet might seem minor, but it can quickly turn into a problem with frequent use. Test each toilet in your home before guests arrive. If the water level in the tank seems low or the toilet runs constantly, you may need to replace the fill valve or flapper.
It’s also a good idea to remind guests not to flush wipes, paper towels, or feminine products — even if the package says “flushable.” These items can easily clog pipes and cause backups.

3. Clear Slow Drains Early

If your sink or shower is already draining slowly, take care of it now before it gets worse. Hair, soap scum, and grease buildup can reduce water flow and cause unpleasant odors. A quick professional drain cleaning can remove buildup, restore full flow, and help prevent an inconvenient clog when guests are using the bathroom all day.

4. Check Your Water Heater

When multiple people are taking showers back-to-back, your water heater will be under extra pressure. Make sure it’s set to around 120°F for safe, consistent hot water. If it’s been a while since your last maintenance, flushing the tank can remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency — helping you avoid cold showers when guests least expect it.

5. Stock Up and Stay Prepared

Little details make a big difference. Keep plenty of toilet paper on hand, along with a plunger, air freshener, and cleaning supplies. Make sure everyone knows where the shut-off valves are located in case of an emergency. A few minutes of preparation can save you a lot of stress later.

6. Schedule Routine Maintenance

If you notice any plumbing issues — even small ones — it’s smart to schedule a professional inspection before the holidays. A plumber can check for hidden leaks, inspect drains, and make sure your system is ready to handle extra use. Preventive maintenance keeps everything flowing smoothly and can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season

A well-maintained bathroom means one less thing to worry about during the holidays. With a few proactive steps — and a little help from your local plumbing experts — you can keep your home comfortable and clog-free while focusing on what really matters: spending time with family and friends.

Need help getting your bathroom ready for the holidays?
Contact Cole’s Plumbing today for professional drain cleaning and plumbing maintenance services. We’ll make sure your home is ready for guests — and your plumbing runs perfectly all season long.