How To Remove a Toilet the Right Way
Updated: May 22, 2024
Taking out a toilet is a simple and straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
CostFree
Introduction
Here is how to remove a toilet if you intend to undertake DIY bathroom projects, such as flooring, painting, and other renovations.
Tools Required
- Adjustable wrench
- Bucket
- Plunger
- Putty knife
- Screwdrivers
- Utility knife
Materials Required
- Cardboard / moving blanket
- Towels/rags
There comes a time when you need to remove a toilet from a bathroom for one reason or another. Maybe you need to replace the toilet, or perhaps you are in the middle of a bathroom remodeling project, installing new floors underneath the toilet and painting behind it. Though it may seem intimidating, removing a toilet is an easy task most DIYers can do.
Removing a toilet requires no special tools and does not take very long. If you plan to dispose of your old toilet once it has been removed, I recommend contacting your local waste management facility to inquire about the proper disposal methods for it.
When To Call a Pro
It is not necessary to hire a professional plumber to remove a toilet. However, you should ensure that you are capable of heavy lifting and bending over numerous times during the project. If you are not confident in removing a toilet yourself, seek the assistance of a plumber or handyman.
Project step-by-step (8)
Shut off water to toilet
Turn off the water supply to the toilet by turning the shut-off valve clockwise. Flush the toilet to remove all the water from the tank. Plunge the toilet to remove as much residual water as possible from the bowl and trap.
Disconnect the water line
Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet tank with an adjustable wrench. Have a bucket or towel ready to catch any water dripping from the supply line.
Loosen the floor bolts
Use a flathead screwdriver or putty knife to pry off the caps covering the bolts at the toilet’s base. Then, using an adjustable wrench, unscrew the nuts.
Cut the Caulk Free
If caulk or silicone was used to caulk your toilet to the floor, cut through it using a utility knife.
Remove toilet tank
Remove the tank cover and set it aside. If there is still a little water present in the bottom of the tank, soak as much of it up as possible with towels so that it doesn’t drip all over the floor. Unscrew the bolts connecting the toilet tank to the bowl. Carefully lift the tank off the bowl and set it aside.
Remove toilet bowl
Once the toilet is loose, prepare a place to set it, like a moving blanket or piece of cardboard. Then, lift it up and pull it free from the flange. Be ready for any last bits of water to spill out during this step.
Clean off the flange
Clean any remaining wax from the toilet wax ring off the toilet flange with a putty knife or towels. If you are not replacing the toilet immediately, stuff a towel into the drain opening to prevent sewer gases from escaping.
FAQ
Do you have to replace the wax ring when you remove a toilet?
Yes, you must replace the wax ring whenever you replace or reinstall a toilet.
Do plumbers remove toilets?
Yes, hiring a plumber to remove your toilet and dispose of it for you is possible. However, this service can cost up to $250.
Do you have to drain a toilet before removing it?
Yes. It is important to drain the toilet before removing it to avoid any spillage or extra weight.
Originally Published: May 22, 2024
