How To Use A Snake To Unclog A Toilet Patched Jun 2026
Plumbing work can be messy. Lay down old towels or newspapers around the base of the toilet to catch splashes. Wear and safety goggles to protect yourself from wastewater and splashback.
Features a short, rigid shaft and a protective rubber or plastic "boot" (sleeve) at the bottom to prevent permanent scratches on the porcelain.
: Place the curved "boot" of the auger at the bottom of the toilet bowl, pointing into the drain opening. how to use a snake to unclog a toilet
Once the snake is fully removed, test the toilet by pouring a bucket of water into the bowl (do not flush yet). Pouring water puts less pressure on the system; if the water drains down easily, the clog is cleared.
If you have snaked the toilet multiple times and the water still won't drain, the blockage may be deeper in your main sewer line (possibly caused by tree roots or a collapsed pipe). At this point, it is best to call a licensed plumber to inspect the line with a camera. Plumbing work can be messy
Retract the cable of the auger fully so the curved end is exposed. Gently feed the "J-shaped" hook end of the snake into the toilet bowl drain hole.
Once you feel the resistance lessen, slowly pull the snake back out of the drain. Features a short, rigid shaft and a protective
Lay down old towels around the base of the toilet. Snaking can be a splashy job.
Do not use a snake if you have recently poured chemical drain cleaners into the toilet. The snake can cause these caustic chemicals to splash back onto your skin or eyes. Toilet Auger vs. Snake: What's the Best Tool for Clogs?
Once you feel resistance (usually 2 to 4 feet deep), you’ve likely hit the clog. Do not force the snake violently, as this can crack the porcelain.