Plumbing is one of those systems most people never think about until something goes wrong. You turn on the faucet, flush the toilet, or start the dishwasher and expect everything to work smoothly. But behind the walls and under the floors, pipes are carrying all kinds of things you might not want to imagine. Every so often, plumbers stumble across strange surprises that make even the most routine repair feel like an adventure.
Here are some of the weirdest things that have been found in pipes over the years and why these stories prove the importance of regular plumbing maintenance.
Toys on the Loose
One of the most common culprits behind clogged pipes is not grease or hair but toys. Kids have a habit of testing the limits of toilets and drains. Action figures, rubber ducks, and even toy cars have all been discovered wedged deep inside pipes. One plumber once reported pulling out a Barbie doll that had been stuck for weeks, creating a blockage that left the family baffled.
It may sound funny, but these little objects can cause serious backups. Parents know that if it fits in a toddler’s hand, it might eventually end up in the plumbing.
Animals in Unexpected Places
Pipes seem like an unlikely home for animals, but plenty of plumbers have found otherwise. Snakes, frogs, and even the occasional curious squirrel have been discovered in plumbing systems. Birds sometimes drop things into outdoor vents, and small critters can find their way inside through open drain lines.
In one bizarre case, a plumber found a goldfish alive and well inside a pipe, likely the result of someone flushing it and the fish somehow surviving the journey. While these animal encounters make for good stories, they also remind us that pipes are not invincible and should be properly sealed and maintained.
Jewelry and Valuables
Ever taken off a ring to wash your hands only to have it slip into the sink? Plumbers know this story all too well. Over the years, countless pieces of jewelry have been retrieved from pipes. Rings, bracelets, and even watches have been pulled out, much to the relief of their owners.
One plumber shared that he once retrieved a wedding ring that had been lost for over a year. The family assumed it was gone forever, but there it was, lodged in a bathroom pipe. Stories like these show why P-traps exist in sinks, catching items before they make their way deeper into the system.
Strange Household Items
Some discoveries are just plain puzzling. Plumbers have reported finding toothbrushes, cell phones, credit cards, and even entire sets of keys inside pipes. One particularly odd case involved a potato, which had somehow found its way into a kitchen drain and caused a serious blockage. Another homeowner was shocked to learn that the reason their toilet would not flush properly was a set of false teeth stuck in the pipes.
How these items got there is anyone’s guess, but they serve as a reminder that drains are not designed to handle anything beyond water, waste, and toilet paper.
Why These Stories Matter
While these weird finds make for great conversation, they highlight a simple truth: plumbing systems need regular attention. Pipes are tough, but they are not designed to handle toys, jewelry, or household items. Even everyday things like grease, hair, and soap buildup can cause clogs if left unchecked.
Scheduling routine maintenance or inspections helps prevent small blockages from turning into major repairs. Catching problems early saves money, prevents water damage, and keeps your plumbing running smoothly. And if you ever do lose something valuable down the drain, calling in a professional right away gives you the best chance of getting it back.
Find A Plumber
Plumbers have seen it all, from snakes and dolls to rings and dentures. While these stories are entertaining, they also remind us that what goes into the drain can have lasting consequences. Taking care of your plumbing means fewer emergencies and fewer chances of finding something strange lurking in your pipes.
For homeowners in eastern Idaho, having a trusted professional for regular maintenance makes all the difference. With reliable services in plumbing Idaho Falls, you can keep your system clear, avoid costly surprises, and make sure the only thing flowing through your pipes is exactly what should be there.
