How to Get Sand Out of a Toilet Bowl

Published: Jan 19, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Recurring sand will require you to check for sand buildup in the tank. If the problem persists, arrange for a plumber to check your pipes and permanently correct this problem.

  1. Clean the toilet tank with a scrubber and toilet cleaner, following manufacturer’s instructions.

  2. Turn off the water to the toilet. Twist the handle on the water valve extending from the wall beneath the toilet until the water stops.

  3. Flush the toilet to remove water from the tank and bowl. Hold down on the handle until the tank is empty and the water inside the bowl goes down the drain.

  4. Vacuum the bowl with a wet/dry vacuum to remove the sand and any remaining water. Wipe the bowl with a towel to remove the last bits of the sand the vacuum might have missed.

  5. Twist the water valve to allow water back into the toilet tank and bowl. Allow it to fill as normal, and then replace the lid.

  6. Discard the sandy water outside.

Things You Will Need

  • Toilet scrub brush
  • Toilet bowl cleaner
  • Wet/dry vacuum
  • Towel
Daniella Lauren

Daniella Lauren has worked with eHow and various new media sites as a freelance writer since 2009. Her work covers topics in education, business, and home and garden. Daniella holds a Master of Science in elementary education and a…

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