Finding a snake in your bathroom requires immediate containment to prevent the snake from entering other parts of the house. Snakes may enter bathrooms through plumbing access points, open windows, or gaps around pipes. Most bathroom snakes are non-venomous, but caution is essential. This guide covers what to do.
Key Takeaways
- Close the bathroom door to contain the snake and prevent it from moving into other rooms.
- Close the toilet lid and cover plumbing openings.
- Open a window or exterior door to give the snake an escape route.
- Call a professional for venomous snakes or if you cannot safely remove it.
In This Guide
Immediate Steps
- Close the bathroom door. This contains the snake and prevents it from moving into other rooms. Slide a towel under the door.
- Close the toilet lid. Snakes can enter through the plumbing and emerge from the toilet. The lid prevents this.
- Cover floor drains and sink drains with a towel or stopper.
- Get everyone out of the bathroom, including pets.
- Assess the snake from a safe distance. If you cannot identify it, assume it is venomous.
Remove the Snake
- Open a window or exterior door in the bathroom if available. The snake may leave on its own.
- Use a long-handled tool like a plunger handle or broom to guide the snake toward the open door or window.
- Place a bucket or trash can over the snake if it is stationary. Slide a piece of cardboard under and carry it outside.
- Call a professional for venomous snakes or if the snake has entered the plumbing.
Prevention
- Seal gaps around pipes entering the bathroom with expanding foam and steel wool.
- Install screens on bathroom windows.
- Cover floor drains with mesh covers.
- Keep the bathroom clean to reduce insects and rodents that attract snakes.
For more, read our garage/">garage snake guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a snake come up through the toilet?
Yes, it is possible. Snakes can enter through plumbing vents on the roof and travel through pipes. The toilet is connected to the main sewer line, and a snake can swim up through the pipes and emerge through the toilet bowl. This is rare but possible, especially with small snake species.
How do snakes get into bathrooms?
Snakes enter bathrooms through open windows, gaps around pipes under the sink, floor drains, and plumbing vents on the roof. They are attracted by moisture, warmth, and prey (insects, rodents).
What should I do if a snake is in my toilet bowl?
Close the toilet lid immediately. Do not flush. Call a professional wildlife control operator or plumber. Do not try to remove the snake from the toilet yourself. Keep the bathroom door closed until help arrives.
Are snakes in the bathroom dangerous?
Most snakes in bathrooms are non-venomous and more scared than dangerous. However, any snake can bite if cornered. The confined space makes it harder to avoid a strike. Call a professional if you cannot safely contain or remove the snake.
The Bottom Line
A snake in your bathroom is a manageable situation if you act calmly. Close the bathroom door and toilet lid to contain the snake.
Open a window or exterior door to give it an escape route. Use a long-handled tool to guide it out if necessary. Never flush a snake or try to grab it with your hands. Seal gaps around pipes and install window screens to prevent future incidents.
