Clear Toilet Clogs Fast with a Drain Snake

What Is a Drain Snake?

A drain snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is a long, flexible metal wire that is inserted into a drain to clear clogs. One end has a handle you turn, and the other has a corkscrew-like tip that grabs or breaks up the blockage. It’s great for reaching deeper clogs that a plunger can’t fix.

Drain snakes come in different sizes. For toilets, you’ll want a special kind called a toilet auger, which is designed not to scratch the porcelain.

When Should You Use a Drain Snake?

Try a plunger first. If it doesn’t work after a few solid tries, and the water is still not going down, it’s time to bring out the drain snake. Here are some signs that using a drain snake is a good idea:

• Water slowly drains or doesn’t drain at all
• Gurgling sounds come from your toilet.
• Repeated clogs in the same toilet

Using a drain snake is often a smart step before calling a plumber, especially for minor clogs.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather your tools and supplies:

• Toilet auger (or drain snake)
• Rubber gloves
• Bucket or towel (just in case)
• Disinfectant wipes or cleaner (for cleanup)

Make sure the toilet bowl isn’t too full. If it is, scoop out some water into a bucket to avoid splashing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Drain Snake

Step 1: Put on Gloves and Prepare

Toilet work isn’t the cleanest job. Wearing rubber gloves will keep your hands protected. Place an old towel or bucket nearby in case things get messy.

Step 2: Insert the Toilet Auger

Take the end of the auger (the one with the rubber sleeve) and carefully slide it into the toilet bowl. Push gently into the drain hole. Ensure it goes straight in, not sideways, to prevent scratching the toilet.

Step 3: Crank the Handle

Once it’s in as far as it’ll go, start turning the handle clockwise. This will cause the snake to move deeper into the pipe. You may feel resistance. That’s usually the clog.

Keep turning. Sometimes the snake will break up the clog. Other times, it’ll hook onto it so you can pull it out.

Step 4: Pull It Back

After a few turns, slowly retract the auger. If it’s grabbed something, it may come out with it. Be ready! It might be messy.

Step 5: Test the Flush

Now, flush the toilet and check if the water drains normally. Congratulations! You’ve unclogged it. If not, you might need to repeat the steps a couple more times.

If it still doesn’t work after trying twice, it may be time to call a plumbing service for backup.

Clean Up After You’re Done

Once the toilet is working again, it’s essential to clean everything thoroughly. Use disinfectant wipes or a good cleaner on your tools, the toilet, and your hands (even with gloves). Let the snake dry before storing it.

Cleaning up helps keep your bathroom fresh and safe.

When to Call a Pro

Sometimes, a clog is just too deep or too stubborn for a snake. Or maybe there’s a bigger problem hiding in your pipes. If you’ve tried more than once and still have trouble, calling an professional plumbers in Los Angeles, Ventura & Orange Counties is the safest move.

Companies like Express Plumbing & Rooter have the right tools and know-how to handle any type of clog. They can also check for larger problems, such as tree roots or pipe damage.

If your toilet clogs often, that’s also a sign you might need expert toilet repair help.

Preventing Future Toilet Clogs

No one wants to deal with a toilet backup again anytime soon. Here are a few simple tips to help avoid another clog:

• Only flush toilet paper and waste. No wipes, paper towels, or feminine products.
• Use less toilet paper when possible.
• Check if small kids are flushing toys—yes, it happens a lot!
• Schedule a regular checkup with a trusted plumbing service, such as Express Plumbing & Rooter, to keep your pipes clear and healthy.

Time to Take Action

Now you know how to use a drain snake and unclog a toilet. It’s not the most fun job, but it can save you money and time. And hey, you might even feel like a plumbing hero afterward!

But if the clog won’t budge, or if you’d rather leave the dirty work to someone else, don’t wait. Contact Express Plumbing & Rooter for prompt, reliable assistance. Whether you need a full toilet repair, a skilled plumber, or a long-term plumbing service you can count on, they’ve got your back.