Do you want to know how to use plunger? To use it on a toilet, you have to place a rubber cup plunger over the opening of the toilet drain, then apply strong pressure with a pumping motion to remove the clog.
When I was younger, I assumed that all plungers were the same.
Imagine trying to use a toilet plunger on the kitchen sink. It doesn’t match and could also be dangerous because of bacteria.
There are different kinds of plungers. Using a plunger will depend on which type of plunger and where you want to plunge.
In this article, we shall examine the various type of plungers and how to use them.
See tips and tricks for using a sink plunger to unclog a toilet
Let’s get started!
How to use plunger Effectively For any Plunging
Before we dive into the art of plunging, let’s familiarize ourselves with the mighty tool at our disposal.
Plungers come in different types, each suited for specific tasks.
The classic cup plunger is your go-to for sinks and showers, while the flange plunger is designed for unclogging toilets. And many other types of plungers later in this article.
Choosing the right plunger can make a difference in your unclogging endeavors. Consider factors such as the type of clog and the surface you’re dealing with.
Gather your materials, including protective gloves, a bucket or old towels, and, if necessary, a plumber’s snake for those particularly stubborn clogs.
Safety should be a priority, so remember to get your eye protection and avoid using chemicals before plunging.
Clearing Clogs in Sinks and Tubs
Remove excess water before plunging a sink or tub. This will allow for better suction and more effective plunging.
Creating a seal with the plunger
Place the plunger over the drain, ensuring it covers the entire opening. Use your hands to create a tight seal between the plunger and the surface.
With the plunger securely in place, apply downward pressure while maintaining a steady motion. Use your arms and upper body strength to generate force and create a suction effect, to dislodge the clogs.
Repeating the process if necessary
If the clog persists, repeat the plunging process a few more times. Remember to maintain the seal, adjusting the angle and pressure as needed.
How To Use A Plunger To Unclogging Toilets
It understands the mechanism of a toilet bowl. Toilets have a unique shape; understanding their mechanism is crucial for successful plunging.
Take note of the water level and the S-shaped trap leading to the drain.
Adjust the water level in the bowl if need be. When the water level is too high, you must adjust it to prevent overflow during plunging.
Turn off the water supply or use a plunger with an adjustable flange.
Place the plunger correctly. Position the plunger over the drain in the toilet bowl, ensuring the cup covers the entire opening.
Create a firm seal by pressing the plunger down against the bottom of the bowl.
Exert controlled force with an up-and-down motion. With the plunger in place, exert controlled force by pushing down and then pulling up steadily.
The goal is to create pressure and suction that dislodges the clog.
Test for successful unclogging. After several plunges, test if the toilet is unclogged by flushing it.
If the water flows smoothly and the clog is gone, congratulations! You’ve successfully unclogged your toilet.
The Different Types Of Plungers And Their Uses
Plungers are the most frequent simple home equipment used to clear drain obstructions.
Toilet plungers of all varieties are essential household items that aid in removing obstructions and drains.
But did you know that different plungers are used for different clogs?
However, there may be situations when your plunger does not work.
Examine some of these toilet plunger kinds to grasp them better, and select the one you believe will work best for your scenario.
Stop worrying if a toilet will unclog itself and start using one of the plungers listed below.
Traditional Toilet Plunger
Traditional toilet plungers are the go-to tool for unclogging toilets and are commonly found in bathrooms everywhere.
They are classified into two types: those with a flange and those without.
The toilet plunger with a flange is specifically designed for tackling toilet clogs.
It features a rubber extension, the flange, at the bottom of the plunger.
This flange serves a vital purpose by enhancing the suction power within the toilet drain.
When you use a flanged plunger, the flange creates a tight seal against the toilet drain, allowing for stronger suction and better pressure control.
Therefore, using a flanged plunger is more likely to result in a complete and successful toilet unclogging.
On the other hand, there are also toilet plungers without a flange. These are often used for other purposes, such as unclogging sinks or drains with flat surfaces.
While they lack the flange extension, they can still create suction by forming a seal over the drain opening.
When it comes to unclogging toilets specifically, the traditional toilet plunger with a flange is recommended.
The flange significantly improves its effectiveness in generating suction and clearing stubborn toilet clogs.
Therefore, if you encounter a clogged toilet, using a plunger with a flange will increase your chances of resolving the issue.
Sink Plungers
Sink plungers are plungers designed to unclog sinks or drains with a flat surface.
Unlike traditional toilet plungers with a flange, sink plungers don’t have that rubber extension at the bottom.
A sink plunger can be handy when you have a clogged sink or drain.
It can quickly create suction to dislodge any blockages in the drain and allow the water to flow freely again.
The flat surface of the sink plunger is ideal for creating a tight seal over the sink drain opening.
Note that if you use a sink plunger for your sink drain, you should only use it.
Avoid using the same plunger for your sink and toilet to prevent cross-contamination.
Store them separately so you don’t mix them up accidentally.
Maintaining your toilet and sink plunger can maintain cleanliness and prevent health risks.
So, remember to use the right plunger for the right job and keep them separate to ensure proper hygiene and effectiveness.
Bathtub and Shower Plungers
A flat-bottomed, bell-shaped plunger is the best type for bathtubs and showers. They are specifically designed for these types of drains.
The bottom of these plungers has a large, flat suction cup that makes an efficient seal over the curved surface of the drain in bathtubs and showers.
This design increases pressure and suction, making clear clogs in these drains easier.
These plungers can be versatile in handling various drain clogs, including those in your bathtub or shower.
It would help if you remembered that having a separate plunger for your toilet and another for your bathtub or shower is strongly recommended.
Using the same plunger for both may result in cross-contamination, which we wish to prevent.
To ensure proper hygiene and effectiveness. Keep your plungers separate.
And clearly distinguish which is meant for your toilet and which is meant for your bathtub or shower.
Investing in a different toilet plunger can prevent any accidental mix-up and ensure that each plunger is used for its intended purpose.
Keeping them separate and using them appropriately will help maintain cleanliness and avoid potential health risks.
Taze Plunger
A taze plunger is a specialized tool specifically designed for larger pipes and drains, typically not commonly found in regular households.
Professionals in specific industries primarily use these types of plungers.
Unlike traditional plungers in local stores, taze plungers are not readily available for general consumer purchase.
They are specialized tools that are typically used by professionals who are trained to handle larger plumbing systems.
A taze plunger consists of a disc-shaped to fit specific pipe sizes and a long steel rod attached.
The plunger’s job is to press the disc into the pipe, establishing a tight seal.
By creating this seal, the taze plunger allows for effective pressure buildup and force to dislodge blockages in larger pipes or drains.
Due to their specific nature and the size of the pipes they are designed for, taze plungers are only sometimes applicable to some household plumbing issues.
Professionals primarily use them in industrial or commercial settings with larger plumbing systems.
Therefore, if you’re facing a plumbing issue in your home, it is unlikely that you would need or be able to find a taze plunger at your local store.
It’s best to rely on standard plungers, or you can directly seek the assistance of a professional plumber who can properly diagnose and address the specific needs of your household plumbing system.
Modified Toilet Plungers
Modified bellow plungers are an excellent tool for unclogging toilets.
They are designed to provide a powerful and effective method for clearing stubborn toilet blockages.
Using a modified bellow plunger is simple and involves repeatedly pulling up and pressing down on the handle.
The modified bellow plunger’s design creates a vacuum inside the toilet bowl.
This suction action helps to dislodge and break apart the clog, allowing it to be flushed away.
By generating strong pressure through repeated pulling and pressing motions, the modified bellow plunger can effectively clear the obstruction.
To use a modified bellow plunger, place the rubber end into the toilet bowl, ensuring a proper seal.
Then, with a firm grip on the handle, you pull up and push down repeatedly, creating the vacuum effect that assists in dislodging the clog.
This process helps free up the blockage, enabling it to be flushed away when you flush the toilet.
The power of the modified bellow plunger lies in its ability to create a forceful suction, which significantly increases the chances of successfully unclogging the toilet.
By harnessing the vacuum effect generated by this plunger, you can effectively deal with stubborn toilet clogs and restore proper flushing function.
A modified bellows plunger can be a great solution if you encounter a clogged toilet.
Its simple but very powerful design allows you to apply the necessary force to break apart the blockage and ensure a clear and functional toilet.
Bellows-Style Plunger
Bellows-style toilet plungers are designed with a mechanism similar to the bellows used to draw in air and make a fire burn hotter.
This type of plunger operates on the same principle. It provides extra forceful suction by drawing in a significant amount of water and then forcefully pushing it back toward the clog.
This powerful push helps to dislodge and break apart the clog, allowing it to break free and clear the pipe.
Using a bellows-style toilet plunger is straightforward. You position the rubber end of the plunger over the toilet drain, ensuring a good seal is formed.
Then, you push the handle down and pull it up repeatedly, just like operating a bellows.
This action creates a strong suction and forceful water movement, which helps to break up and remove the clog.
The repeated pushing and pulling with a bellows-style plunger generates substantial pressure, increasing the chances of quickly freeing the clog.
With each motion, the forceful water movement exerts pressure on the blockage, gradually loosening it until it can be flushed away.
This type of plunger is highly effective in unclogging toilets, and with persistent effort, the clog is often resolved quickly.
The suction and force generated by the bellows-style plunger make it a reliable tool for dealing with stubborn toilet blockages.
So, reaching for a bellows-style plunger can be a great solution if you face a clogged toilet.
Its design and functionality allow you to apply significant force and water movement, breaking free of the clog and restoring proper flushing functionality.
Beehive Plunger
Beehive plungers are a unique type of plunger with a distinctive shape resembling a beehive.
They are built from a rubber cup connected to a wood, metal handle, or plastic handle.
A beehive plunger’s rubber cup is uniquely made with a certain shape.
It begins small, expands in the center, and then tapers to a tight form at the end.
This tapering end, located at the lower base of the plunger, is the part inserted first into the toilet bowl.
When using a beehive plunger, you position the narrow, tapered end of the rubber cup into the toilet drain, ensuring a secure fit.
This design allows for effective sealing and creates a strong suction when plunging.
As you push and pull the handle of the beehive plunger, the rubber cup compresses and releases, creating pressure and suction within the toilet bowl.
This action helps to dislodge and break through the clogs, allowing it to be flushed away.
The unique shape of the beehive plunger’s rubber cup and the plunging motion aid in generating the necessary force to clear the blockage.
The narrow-to-wide-to-narrow design helps to maximize the suction and pressure applied to the clog, making it an effective tool for unclogging toilets.
A beehive plunger is a practical choice if you have a clogged toilet.
Its distinctive shape and functionality enable it to create a strong seal and provide the necessary suction and pressure to tackle toilet blockages effectively.
Hybrid Plunger
Hybrid toilet plungers are innovative variations of standard plungers designed to make unclogging a toilet easier and more effective.
These plungers often combine elements from different plungers or incorporate modifications to enhance their functionality.
One common modification in hybrid toilet plungers is a relatively shorter handle made from rubber.
This design allows for better coverage of the deeper parts of the drain, providing more flexibility in your plunging motion.
The shorter rubber handle lets you exert pressure and create suction in hard-to-reach areas, increasing the chances of successfully clearing the clog.
Also, hybrid plungers may feature larger rubber sections, often using an accordion design.
This larger rubber surface area helps to maximize the sealing effect, allowing for increased suction and pressure when plunging.
The accordion design expands and contracts during the plunging action, creating a more pronounced effect on the clog.
Some hybrid plungers even incorporate a pump mechanism that can create a vacuum effect.
This pump enables you to generate additional suction force by creating a vacuum within the plunger.
Combining the pump and plunging action creates a powerful force to dislodge and break apart the clog.
The purpose of these modifications and combinations in hybrid toilet plungers is to provide an improved unclogging experience.
By incorporating elements from different plungers or introducing new features, hybrid plungers enhanced suction, better coverage, and increased flexibility, ultimately making the unclogging process more efficient and effective.
Using a hybrid plunger can be a great option when faced with a stubborn clog in your toilet.
Its unique design features and innovative additions allow for a stronger seal, increased suction, and better control, helping you tackle toilet blockages more easily.
Accordion Plungers
Accordion plungers are unique. They have a distinct rubber part aside from the gripping rod. Similar to the beehive shape.
The rubber section of the accordion plunger starts narrow, widens at the center, and tapers back down at the base.
The base of the accordion plunger is similar to a flange, which helps create a tight seal.
However, its shape resembles an accordion instrument, with ridges and grooves throughout the rubber element.
When you apply pressure to the accordion plunger, the ridges come together, just like the movement of an accordion.
This design is beneficial for unblocking drains because the tight seal and increased air and water pressure can effectively flush out the blockage.
It’s important to note that using an accordion plunger may require more effort than standard or flange plungers.
Also, proper cleaning is essential, as the gaps between the ridges can accumulate dirt and grime.
While an accordion plunger can be used on toilets, it may be more challenging than other types.
This is because it is typically made with hard plastic rather than rubber, making forming a seal over the toilet opening more challenging.
However, once a seal is formed, the accordion ridges create a more potent suction that can effectively unclog a drain with less exertion.
If you use an accordion plunger, be prepared to exert extra effort.
Although it may take more work to create a seal, the unique design of the accordion ridges enhances suction power, making it an effective tool for clearing clogs.
Just remember to clean it thoroughly to maintain its performance and hygiene.
Touchless Toilet Plunger
Touchless plungers are unique and entirely different from the traditional plungers we’ve discussed.
They have different structures without the rod commonly found in other plungers.
Instead, they consist of a large rubber sheet or sleeve similar to an accordion plunger.
When using a touchless plunger, it can be applied easily and straightforwardly.
You place it between the toilet seat and the bowl, unlike traditional plungers that require a rod for plunging.
Spread the touchless plunger over the toilet seat to allow the plunger to provide the suction required to unclog the toilet.
A variation of the touchless plunger is the disposable plastic plunger.
It operates on the same touchless principle, eliminating the need for a rod and a rubber element.
Instead, you hold a sticker down over the toilet seat, flush the toilet, and continue pressing to create a seal.
However, their unconventional approach may need to generate more pressure to dislodge stubborn blockages effectively.
Touchless toilet plungers benefit from not having to physically come into contact with the toilet water, which some people may enjoy.
If you have decided to use a touchless plunger, remember that you will get a different result because they are less effective than traditional plungers.
How to Use a Plunger on a Sink
Clogged sinks are a common household issue, including accumulating hair, food particles, grease, or other debris in the drain pipes.
If you, too, are facing a blocked clog in your sink, Never mind. With a sink plunger and some simple steps below, you can remove the clog and restore free water flow.
Let’s walk through the process of unclogging the sink with a plunger:
1. Steps to use a plunger on the sink
Before you start plunging, clear the area around the sink. Remove any items that may obstruct your movement.
It’s also a good idea to lay down old towels or place a bucket under the sink to collect any water that may splash out during plunging.
2. Select the Right Plunger
Ensure you have the appropriate plunger for sink clogs—a cup plunger is designed explicitly for sink clogs.
A cup plunger has a flat surface and a flexible cup that creates suction when pressed against the drain opening.
3. Creating a Seal
Put the plunger over the drain opening, ensuring the cup covers the entire opening. Press the plunger firmly against the sink surface to create a seal.
The seal is crucial for generating suction and dislodging the clog.
4. Apply Downward Pressure
Apply downward pressure while ensuring a tight seal. Pushing the plunger handle down, then swiftly drawing it up repeatedly, generates the suction effect.
And this motion aids in the loosening and breaking up of the blockage.
Continue the plunging motion with a steady up-and-down movement. The key here is to maintain the suction and keep the pressure consistent.
Avoid excessive force, as it may damage the pipes or cause water to splash.
5. Repeat The Process If Necessary
If the clog persists, repeat the plunging process several times. It may take a few attempts to dislodge the obstruction fully. Make sure to maintain the seal and rhythm during each plunge.
After a series of plunges, test the sink by running water to see if the water flows smoothly down the drain without backing up.
You have successfully unclogged your sink using a plunger.
With this sink plunger technique, you should be able to free your sink from any clogs.
However, if plunging doesn’t resolve the clog issues or you’re facing recurrent clogs, it’s best to consult a professional plumber for further assistance.
How To Use A Plunger On A Bathtub
Dealing with a clogged bathtub can be a difficult experience; however, employing a bathtub plunger design can make unclogging a bathtub simple.
Follow these steps to use a plunger in a bathtub effectively:
Get everything set
Remove any things or impediments from the bathtub before plunging to guarantee simple access.
Clear the surrounding area to avoid any spills or splashes. Covering the overflow drain with a cloth or tape will also help to improve suction.
How To Use A Plunger On A Shower Drain
A clogged shower drain can disrupt your morning routine.
Fortunately, you can quickly unclog your shower with a shower drain plunger technique.
Here are the steps to unclog the shower drain with a plunger:
Remove Obstructions
For normal practice, before plunging the shower drain, remove any visible obstructions, such as hair or debris, from the surface of the drain.
Use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to clear away as much as possible to help ensure a smoother plunging process.
Use the Right Plunger
The cup plunger is an excellent plunger for clogged sinks and showers.
When placed against the drain hole, cup plungers feature a flat surface and a flexible suction cup.
Ensure the plunger’s cup is large enough to cover the whole drain.
Place the plunger immediately over the shower drain, ensuring the cup completely covers the entrance.
To achieve a tight seal, press the plunger firmly against the drain.
A good seal is essential for creating suction and dislodging the blockage.
Apply downward pressure while preserving the seal after the plunger is in position.
Push the plunger handle down, then swiftly draw it up, generating a suction effect.
This motion aids in the loosening and breaking up of the blockage.
Maintain a Steady Rhythm
Continue plunging with a steady up-and-down rhythm. It’s important to keep the pressure consistent and the seal intact.
Avoid using excessive force, as it may cause water to splash out of the shower.
Test the Drain
Check the drain after many plunges by running water in the shower.
Congratulations if the water runs freely and drains without backup! Using a plunger, you successfully unclog your shower drain.
Remember if plunging does not clear the blockage or you are experiencing it frequently.
Troubleshooting Tips for Hard Clogs
Sometimes, when you encounter a hard clog, you will also require more effort to remove the clog. Let’s see the steps with some troubleshooting tips.
With a plumber’s snake, you can clear deeper clogs, and the plumber’s snake is a valuable tool for handling those hard-to-reach and persistent clogs.
A plumber’s snake is a flexible cable with a corkscrew-like end that can break up and remove stubborn debris.
Here’s how to use it:
1. Inserting the plumber’s snake
Carefully insert the plumber’s snake into the drain, pushing it through the pipes until you encounter resistance.
2. Breaking up the clog
Rotate the snake clockwise to break up the clog and push it through the pipes.
If you encounter a particularly stubborn obstruction, apply gentle pressure to dislodge it.
3. Retrieving the debris
Slowly withdraw the snake while continuing to rotate it. This motion helps catch and remove the debris, clearing the clog.
4. Addressing Persistent Clogs
If you’ve tried plunging and using a plumber’s snake, but the clog persists, it may be time to call a professional plumber.
Persistent clogs could indicate a more significant issue within the plumbing system, and an expert can diagnose and resolve the problem safely and efficiently.
How To Maintain And Clean Your Plunger
For your plunger to remain effective and in a hygienic state, proper maintenance is essential.
Follow these simple tips for plunger care:
- After use, rinse the plunger with hot water to remove any residue or debris.
- Disinfect the plunger by soaking it in hot water and bleach or vinegar for a few minutes.
- Thoroughly dry the plunger before storing it in a clean and dry area to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Tips and Best Practices
To prevent clogs and have a healthy plumbing system, consider implementing these preventive measures and eco-friendly alternatives:
- Drain filters or screens catch hair, food particles, and debris.
- Regularly flush drains with hot water to prevent buildup.
- Employ natural methods like baking soda and vinegar or enzymatic drain cleaners instead of harsh chemical products.
How To Know If Your Plunger Is Working?
You can determine if your plunger works by observing if it creates suction.
When using a plunger, there are a few signs that indicate whether it is working effectively:
Suction: A working plunger should create suction when pressed against the drain or toilet bowl opening. This suction is crucial for dislodging the clog.
You can check for suction by pressing the plunger firmly against the surface and trying to lift it slightly. If you feel resistance, it indicates that suction is being created.
Movement: As you apply pressure and pump with the plunger, you should observe movement in the water or debris within the drain or toilet bowl.
The plunging action generates pressure and pushes air and water forcefully, which helps to dislodge the clog.
If you notice any movement or shifting of the clog, it suggests that the plunger is working.
Drainage: One of the key indicators of successful plunging is improved drainage.
If the plunger is effective, you should see an improvement in the water flow or the toilet bowl’s emptying after each plunging attempt.
The clog should gradually loosen and become transparent, allowing for smoother drainage.
It would help if you used the plunger correctly to create a tight seal between the plunger cup and the drain.
This helps to maximize the suction and pressure generated during plunging. Also, repeating the plunging motion multiple times can increase the chances of success.
Note: If you don’t observe any suction, movement, or improvement in drainage after several attempts.
It may indicate that the plunger is unsuitable for the specific clog, or the clog may require alternative methods such as a plumber’s snake or chemical drain cleaner.
Conclusion
You’ve so far gained knowledge and know how to use plunger. It would help if you understood the different plunger types, proper techniques, troubleshooting tips, and maintenance practices.
Knowing when to use them will save you time and money by allowing you to handle minor plumbing issues yourself.
However, persistent or complex plumbing issues may require professional assistance.