We’ve all felt the horror of flushing the toilet and realizing there’s a problem. God forbid you’re at someone else’s house. Yikes!
Most people don’t travel with a toilet plunger, unless you’re a plumber that is. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be prepared at your own house because clogs will happen. It’s only a matter of time.
So let’s talk about the best toilet plungers
We’ve plumbed the depths of the Internet to bring you the best toilet plungers known to man, from the heavy duty plunger to “the hidden one.”
Plus, we’ll share some cool plunger holders, storage hacks, and caddy ideas because the toilet plunger is a tool, not a decorating accessory!
In case of a toilet emergency, let’s cut to the chase. Below are the best toilet plungers so you don’t have to scroll far.
There are 2 things to consider when buying a toilet plunger. The first is function or performance, and the second is design.
Let’s be honest…
Some guys don’t care what the plunger looks like as long as it works. And there is truth in this view. After all, what good is a pretty plunger that is useless in resolving your clogged toilet?
1. Function: Choosing a Toilet Plunger that Works
Take note of the size of your toilet bowl’s hole. Some older toilets have small openings, while newer or elongated toilets have larger openings and wider shape. Why does this matter?
Your plunger needs to form a seal when inserted into the hole of your toilet bowl, otherwise, it will be ineffective.
So, take note of the toilet bowl openings in your house and compare the toilet plunger’s head or cup. The most important thing you can do is confirm these will match and form a strong seal, and therefore suction.
The power generated from this connection is what will dislodge the blockage.
The good news about toilet plungers is this. Most of them will fit a variety of bowl openings today. Just confirm the cup before purchasing to confirm.
Now onto design and function…
2. Design: Toilet Plungers that Hide, Store, or Look Nice
Gone are the days when every plunger had a red rubber end with a wooden handle. Today you can get a plunger with a holder that easily stores nearby while it dries, or, is hidden altogether!
Some of the toilet plunger holders even come in metal finishes to match your bathroom decor!
Again, for quick reference here is our list of the top picks.
This toilet plunger is a true champ. Its compact design gives you options. Keep it in plain sight nearby the toilet, or it can easily fit under the sink. It comes with a plunger cover to catch not only drips when transported, but also hide the head.
OXO wins for comfortable use, and the flat handle gives you a firm grip and doesn’t disappoint. It’s a well-made plunger to unclog your toilet quickly, and sturdy enough to last for years to come. Plus, it’s affordable!
Ok, now that you know what to look for in choosing the right toilet plunger and our top picks, let’s talk about the dirty deed itself. We’ve included a helpful guide on the subject below.
What's In This Guide?
What You Need To Know About Unclogging A Toilet
Before we get started, let’s discuss some basic things you need to know about unclogging a toilet.
Let’s start with a basic understanding of how a toilet works. When you flush the toilet, water from the toilet tank enters the bowl to the point that it triggers the siphon to suck everything out.
From there, it leaves your home to the city sewer system, or it heads to the septic system if on a private setup.
If at any point, you get a clog in the pipes, it can lead to your toilet overflowing or not flushing.
Clogs can happen at a number of different places, including:
Internal trap
Closet bend
Sanitary tee
Waste stack
Vent
To prevent clogs in the first place, consider using a toilet trap, similar to a grease trap, to collect material before it creates a clog. You should also be careful about what items you flush down your toilet.
Avoid flushing large amounts of toilet paper, paper towels, and sanitary napkins down the toilet as well as any items that don’t typically go down the toilet.
Sometimes you might encounter a clog that requires more than just a toilet plunger. Let’s cover how you can work your way through the options from easiest and cheaper to more difficult.
What Are The Different Methods To Unclog A Toilet?
There are a number of different ways to unclog your toilet. The most effective method will depend on the type of clog and where the clog sits.
Plunger
A plunger incorporates the physics concept known as Boyle’s Law. The plunger increases pressure in the pipe, causing the clog to dissipate.
Drain Cleaner
Drain cleaners eat at the clog using either chemicals or enzymes. Chemical drain cleaners work on tougher clogs, but they can also potentially cause damage to your plumbing. That’s why more and more people are using safe enzyme drain cleaners as a part of regular maintenance.
Plumbing Snake
A drain snake refers to a device that fits inside the drain to physically break up the clog with a pointed end. The body is flexible, allowing it to maneuver past any twists and turns in the plumbing system, such as the S bend.
Not every option will be rated for toilet use. The best plumbing snakes will be designed specifically for toilets, so confirm this before purchase or use.
If you have a really stubborn toilet clog, and want to take things to the next level, consider a powered version. Read these reviews on the best electric drain snakes.
5 Ways to Unclog a Blocked Toilet
You unexpectedly have a clogged toilet. Don’t panic! Simply follow these simple steps on how to unclog a toilet easily.
Step 1: Lift Flapper Valve
Sometimes the toilet simply doesn’t flush because not enough toilet water enters the toilet bowl.
Add more water to the bowl by opening the lid to the tank and lifting the chain of the flapper for a couple of seconds until the water gets into the bowl and forces it to flush.
Step 2: Use a Plunger
When using a plunger, it’s important to create a tight seal around the drain at the bottom of the bowl. Then plunge lightly, increasing veracity as you go. If you’ve previously drained the toilet, ensure there is enough water to create this seal.
Plungers work on both traditional and tankless toilets. But if you don’t see success after about 20 plunges, you should probably move to another step.
Step 3: Pour Drain Cleaner Down the Toilet
Most people forget that many drain cleaners such as Green Gobbler work on toilet drains, too.
Look for a drain cleaner specifically designed for toilets. You also want to be careful that you don’t damage the pipes in your home.
You will need to follow the exact directions on the product you purchase, but you generally put the cleanser down the toilet and then rinse with boiling water or warm water.
Step 4: Break Up Clog With Snake
Start by entering the pointed end of the snake into the drain and continue feeding it deeper into your drain until it reaches the clog. Once you reach the clog, you should turn the snake, allowing it to dissolve the clog. Important: The best plumbing snake for this job will indicate it’s made for use in toilets, and it will be able to turn corners without breaking.
Step 5: Disassemble Toilet
In some very serious cases where none of these methods work, you may need to disassemble your toilet to reach the clog or replace the pipe. This may require the assistance of a professional plumber.
In-Depth: The Best Toilet Plungers Reviewed
Now let’s explore our favorite options in more detail so you can decide on the perfect choice for your situation.
This toilet plunger is a true champ. Its compact design gives you options. Keep it in plain sight nearby the toilet, or it can easily fit under the sink. It comes with a plunger cover to catch not only drips when transported, but also hide the head.
OXO wins for comfortable use, and the flat handle gives you a firm grip and doesn’t disappoint. It’s a well-made plunger to unclog your toilet quickly, and sturdy enough to last for years to come. Plus, it’s affordable!
The Korky BeehiveMAX is a powerhouse when it comes to heavy-duty toilet plungers. People find its design easier to use than accordion plungers, and the plunger head will fit both old and new toilet flange sizes. This plunger has an adjustable handle. This means you can easily store it under the sink, or in a hall closet out of sight.
Korky makes a hideaway accessory plunger cover, so select the right option. This will make it easier to catch drips and for dry storage.
This plunger is made in the USA with durable rubber that WON’T MARK up your white toilet bowl. With tons of reviews, this heavy duty plunger is a winner. It works on every type of toilet, including a low-flow toilet or Water Sense toilet, and it comes with a warranty on any manufacturing defects.
Pros
Powerful plunger to dislodge clogs
Beehive shape fits old and new HET toilets
Adjustable handle for easy storage
Cons
Hideaway plunger cover is optional
Large head may require adding water to submerge
Beehive design creates seal but may take in debris
This toilet plunger with holder comes with a built-in drip tray. It will catch the water after you use it, plus it comes with vented slots to help it dry fast! It provides a large and flat surface to create a seal to help break up stubborn clogs.
Many enjoy the space-saving design which hides the black plunger head, allowing you to store in plain sight. The “clam” toilet plunger holder keeps it securely in place when transporting it from room to room. This is a great toilet plunger caddy solution!
Most guests won’t even notice this hidden toilet plunger! It mostly resembles a toilet brush, and comes in various metal finishes including bronze, gold, black, and stainless steal. This will match most bathroom designs!
The hidden plunger storage container features a removable plastic insert, preventing rust and making for easy cleaning. The toilet plunger’s rubber cup forms a tight seal for the actual dirty work!
This is a great option if you want a plunger and toilet brush set. It comes with a stainless steel holder that is stable, meaning it won’t easily tip over. The rubber end provides good suction for unclogging the toilet, and the long handles make it easy to use. This modern design will match most bathrooms!
Pros
Set includes plunger and toilet brush
Stainless steel storage won’t rust
Elongated design for tight seal
Cons
Hollow handle on brush may not last
Great aesthetics but not heavy duty
More expensive due to 2 in 1 set
Final Thoughts On Unclogging Your Toilet
All homes require a properly functioning toilet. When a toilet experiences a clog thanks to too much toilet paper or another issue, don’t stress. Try the items we suggest in this review to unclog the toilet so that everyone in the house can get back to business as usual.
FAQs For How To Unclog A Toilet
How do you unclog a toilet when a plunger doesn’t work?
If a plunger doesn’t work, dry a drain cleaner or a toilet snake.
Will a toilet unclog itself eventually?
No. The clog will only get worse with time.
How do you unclog a toilet quickly?
Use a snake drain or call an emergency plumber to fix a clogged toilet immediately.
What can you put into a toilet to unclog it?
Drain cleaner. You can make a homemade drain cleaner out of baking soda and white vinegar, but likely need a stronger product to break up the blockage.
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We’re passionate about all things plumbing, and love sharing tips, “how-to”, and reviewing the latest products to help make your project a success!
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About Plumbing Navigator
We write about "all things plumbing," helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.
About Plumbing Navigator
We write about “all things plumbing,” helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.
