When you buy a toilet plunger, it comes as is with no instructions. While the average person kind of knows how to use it, you may not know exactly how to use it. The fact is that for some bad toilet clogs, persistence is key and you might need to use multiple plunges.
Here’s how to properly use a plunger which may save you a $150 (or more) trip by a plumber.
Steps to use a plunger to unclog your toilet
- First, gather all the necessary materials: a toilet plunger, a bucket of water, and a towel or rag.
- Place the towel or rag around the base of the toilet to create a seal around the opening of the drain. This will help the plunger create suction and increase its effectiveness.
- Next, dip the head of the plunger into the bucket of water. This will help lubricate the rubber head and create a better seal.
- Place the wet head of the plunger over the drain opening and press down firmly to create suction.
- Slowly release the plunger and then press down again, repeating this process several times. This motion should dislodge the blockage and force it through the drain.
- After several plunges, remove the plunger and check to see if the water in the toilet bowl has receded. If the water has not receded, repeat the process.
- If the water level in the toilet bowl is low or the blockage is cleared, flush the toilet to ensure it is functioning properly.
- Clean the plunger and store it in a dry place.
Note: If the plunger doesn’t work or the blockage is severe, it’s best to call a plumber as they have the tools and knowledge to handle such a situation.
Common mistakes when using a toilet plunger
- Not creating a proper seal: To effectively use a plunger, it is important to create a tight seal around the opening of the drain. This can be done by placing a towel or rag around the base of the toilet. You can also pay attention to the seal and adjust if needed with each plunge. That way you don’t have to fish a wet and dirty towel out afterwards.
- Not using enough water: A dry plunger will not create the necessary suction to dislodge the blockage. It’s important to use a sufficient amount of water to lubricate the rubber head of the plunger for better suction. You might have to add some water into the bowl if needed.
- Not using the right type of plunger: A toilet plunger has a flange or a fold in the rubber that creates a seal around the drain, while a sink plunger doesn’t have this fold. Using the wrong type of plunger can make the job harder.
- Not plunging enough: Sometimes, it takes several plunges to dislodge the blockage. It’s important to be persistent and continue plunging until the blockage is cleared. Sometimes, it take even more than a few plunges and may take up to 10 or more to get the clog out.
- Not being careful with the toilet bowl: The force of the plunger can cause water to splash out of the toilet bowl, so it is important to be careful and avoid making a mess. Yes, it can get kind of messy especially if the toilet had just been used when the clog occurred and let’s face it, that’s usually why it’s clogged in the first place.
- Flushing the toilet before the blockage is cleared: If the blockage is not cleared, flushing the toilet will only cause the blockage to move further down the drain and make it harder to remove. Often the toilet water in the bowl will flush and empty on its own once you clear the clog and you’ll know that you can then flush it.
- Not cleaning the plunger after use: It’s important to clean the plunger after each use to prevent the spread of germs and to keep it in good working condition.