When temperatures plunge, learning how to winterize a toilet can save you from frozen pipes, leaks, and costly water damage, especially if you’re leaving home for a winter getaway. Taking the time to prep your toilet now can help you avoid emergency calls in the middle of a snowstorm, insurance claims, and long-term issues like mold or warped flooring. The process is simple, doesn’t require advanced tools, and can be done in less than an afternoon for most homes.
Why winterizing your toilet matters
A single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in repairs, and frozen pipes impact over 250,000 homes in the U.S. each year, leading to billions in damage. That’s why knowing how to winterize a toilet isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential home protection. Winterizing also gives you peace of mind if you own a vacation property or plan to be away from home for more than a few days. By reducing the amount of water in your fixtures, you’re limiting the chance of hidden damage that may not be discovered until months later.
Supplies you’ll need
Before you begin, gather a few basics so the process goes smoothly:
- Adjustable wrench
- Plunger or shop vac
- Non-toxic RV antifreeze (never automotive)
- Towels or rags
- Small cup or sponge
Having these ready makes each step of how to winterize a toilet quicker and less messy.
How to winterize a toilet step-by-step
- Shut off the water supply.
Turn the valve behind or near the toilet clockwise until it stops. This prevents new water from entering the tank and bowl. - Flush and drain the tank.
Flush until the tank is mostly empty. Hold the handle down to remove as much water as possible, then sponge or shop-vac out the remainder. - Remove water from the bowl.
Use a cup or shop vac to lower the water level in the bowl. Leave a small amount to create a seal against sewer gases. - Add RV antifreeze.
Pour RV antifreeze into the tank and bowl. This is one of the most important parts of how to winterize a toilet because it helps protect any remaining water from freezing and expanding. - Protect nearby plumbing.
Open vanity doors so warm air can reach pipes and keep the home at least 55°F. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that pipes are most at risk of freezing when temperatures drop below about 20°F. [2] For a broader winter checklist, you can also follow the American Red Cross guidance on frozen pipes.
Extra tips for bathrooms at higher risk
Some bathrooms need more attention when you’re deciding how to winterize a toilet:
- Toilets on exterior walls or above unheated garages
- Guest baths that rarely get used
- Vacant homes, rentals, or cabins
In these areas, consider additional pipe insulation, shutting off the home’s main water valve, and scheduling a whole-home plumbing inspection before you leave.
When to call a professional
If you’re not comfortable handling how to winterize a toilet on your own—or if you suspect a pipe has already frozen—it’s time to bring in an expert. Contact Beis licensed plumbers now to inspect your system, protect vulnerable toilets and pipes, and handle any needed repairs before winter hits.
We can also help you boost efficiency with water quality upgrades and general plumbing maintenance, so your plumbing is in great shape after winter is over.