Toilet Trouble

Toilet Trouble Review

The Toilet Trouble game flushed its way into the spotlight in 2017, turning bathroom humour into laugh-out-loud fun. Released by Hasbro, this cheeky family game quickly earned a place on the official Top 10 Christmas Toys 2017 list. Its mix of suspense, silliness, and simple gameplay made it one of the most memorable gifts of the season.

What Is Toilet Trouble?

At its core, Toilet Trouble is a spin-the-handle game where players take turns flushing a toy toilet. Most of the time, nothing happens—but every so often, the toilet sprays water in a player’s face. The unpredictability and humour made it a hit with kids, while the simple mechanics ensured anyone could join in. It was easy to learn, quick to play, and perfect for groups, making it an instant party favourite.

Why It Stood Out in 2017

Family games were undergoing a revival, and Toilet Trouble tapped into that trend with a fresh twist. Instead of cards or dice, it leaned into slapstick comedy. Children roared with laughter every time someone got sprayed, and parents admitted the silliness was infectious. Compared with complex strategy games, Toilet Trouble’s instant appeal made it a reliable crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.

Its appeal crossed age groups, too. Younger children enjoyed the physical humour, while older kids relished the suspense. Even grandparents were happy to join in, proving that a good laugh is truly universal.

Christmas Buzz and Retail Demand

Retailers praised Toilet Trouble as one of the most accessible toys of 2017. It appeared in catalogues alongside heavyweights like Hatchimals Surprise and Paw Patrol Sea Patroller, proving that a simple game could hold its own against big-ticket items. Stock remained steady, but demand spiked in December as families looked for inclusive, affordable gifts. Our Must-Have Christmas Toys guide shows how laughter-led games always find their way onto festive lists.

How to Play

The rules were straightforward. Players spun the roll of toilet paper to see how many times they had to flush. With each turn, tension built—would the toilet spray or stay dry? The water surprise kept players guessing, turning every round into a nail-biter. Because setup was minimal, games could start instantly, which parents valued during busy Christmas gatherings.

Age Suitability & Family Appeal

Toilet Trouble was recommended for children aged 4+. Younger kids could grasp the rules instantly, while older ones enjoyed teasing siblings as they leaned in for a risky flush. Parents loved that it brought the family together without screens or complicated instructions. The inclusive age range meant it worked as a filler between meals, as an after-school activity, or as the centrepiece of a rainy afternoon.

Play Scenarios That Made It Shine

Families played Toilet Trouble after Christmas dinner, at birthday parties, or during sleepovers. Because rounds were quick, it kept attention spans hooked without dragging. Parents reported that it worked as a great “icebreaker” when cousins or neighbours visited. Much like Stretch Armstrong encouraged group play through contests, Toilet Trouble encouraged collective laughter and anticipation.

Educational & Social Benefits

While rooted in humour, Toilet Trouble had hidden benefits. It taught patience as children waited for their turn, promoted fairness, and encouraged resilience when sprayed. Parents observed that shy children often relaxed once everyone was laughing together. The game also offered a light introduction to probability—though most kids were too busy giggling to notice.

Comparisons with Other 2017 Toys

Compared with big playsets like the PJ Masks Headquarters or Sea Patroller, Toilet Trouble was compact and easy to store. Against high-tech toys like Laser X or Nerf Nitro, it offered simple, no-batteries fun. Parents liked that it balanced the pile of Christmas presents, proving that small, affordable games could deliver just as much joy as expensive gadgets.

Practical Considerations

The only setup required was filling the toilet’s tank with clean water. Parents appreciated that it didn’t require batteries or complex assembly. Some recommended placing the toy on a towel during play to catch stray splashes, but the mess was minimal. Durability was praised—the toy survived dozens of rounds without leaks or malfunctions.

Retailer & Authority View

Retailers highlighted Toilet Trouble in gift guides as an example of family-friendly fun. For an authority outlook, see Made for Mums’ guide to must-have Christmas toys, which confirms that shared laughter remains one of the strongest drivers of festive toy demand.

Legacy of Toilet Trouble

Toilet Trouble spawned sequels and spin-offs in later years, including larger versions with new twists. Its success confirmed that humour-based toys have lasting appeal. Parents often remembered it as the “game everyone played” in 2017, and children cherished the shared laughter. Today, it’s still a talking point in families who enjoyed its splashy fun that Christmas.

Support & How We Test

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Final Thoughts

Toilet Trouble flushed away the competition by proving that silliness sells. Its suspense, humour, and inclusivity made it one of the standout hits of 2017. For families who wanted a break from screens and a guaranteed laugh at gatherings, it was the perfect choice.

For more details on gameplay and durability, see our full Toilet Trouble Review. For further festive highlights, check Top Christmas Toys 2024, Best Christmas Toys 2025, Toys Every Kid Wants 2025, and Christmas Toy Predictions 2025. Fans of Hasbro can also explore our Top Hasbro Toys page.

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