How to Unclog a Toilet With a Plumber's Snake

A clogged toilet is a nasty problem. If you have tried to loosen the clog with a plunger and that didn't' work, you may need to unclog the toilet with a plumber's snake. This tool can reach inside the drain and push or pull out whatever the problem is.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Newspapers
• Rubber gloves
• Plumber's snake
• Plunger

1. Put down a couple layers of newspapers around the toilet in case you have some accidental spills or splashes. Remove any items around the toilet that may be in the way. Get your plumber's snake. Slip on your rubber gloves.

2. Determine the direction the toilet drain faces. It's either to the back or to the front of the toilet.

3. Release the end of the plumber's snake from its storage catch. There should be about four to six inches of flexible cable coming from the end of the plumber's snake at this point.

4. Insert the curved end of the plumber's snake into the toilet in the direction that the drain flows. Turn the auger's crank clockwise until it doesn't go any farther.

5. Watch to see if the water goes on out. If it does, that means the plumber's snake punctured the clog. If the water doesn't go out, turn the crank back and forth to try to dislodge the clog. You can also try to push again gently to push the clog on through. Another option is to try to grab the clog and pull it back out of the toilet with the plumber's snake.

6. Plunge the toilet once you get the clog loose. Flush the toilet to remove any remnants.

7. Clean and sanitize the bathroom. Remember to clean and sanitize your rubber gloves if you intend to use them again.