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Putting caulk around a toilet’s base where it touches the flooring can help hold the toilet in place. A more effective way is using caulk with plastic shim wedges. Place the shims underneath the base to steady and stabilize the toilet. Add some caulk to help keep the shims in place and provide a stronger and more lasting stabilization effect.

While a leak may seem small, even a gentle trickle of consistent moisture can lead to mold problems in your bathroom. Make sure you know how to check for mold if your toilet has been leaking for a while. Pooling water by your toilet also poses a risk for someone slipping on the slick floor of your bathroom. Finally, a leak of any size can lead to water waste that increases your water bill.

A wax ring can often last the entire lifespan of a toilet, which is typically 20 to 30 years. However, it may need to be replaced sooner if it becomes damaged. Signs that your wax ring needs replacement include bad odors or leaks coming from the base of the toilet. The wax can also dry out, flake, or crumble if the toilet was not secured correctly upon installation or has become loose over time. If you notice your toilet wobbles, it's a good indication that the wax ring may be compromised and should be inspected to prevent leaks.

To test for toilet leaks, use water coloring in the water tank and see if the water slips into the bowl from the tank. This test will indicate if there’s a problem with the flapper or refill tube. You can also put water coloring in the bowl of the toilet to see if there is a leak there. If there is, you should see the colored water on the outside of the toilet bowl or on the floor.