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Top 10 Best Toilet Plungers in 2023

Toilet plungers are an essential tool in every household, yet they often remain underestimated until a plumbing emergency strikes. Whether you’re dealing with a minor blockage or a more stubborn clog, having the right plunger and knowing how to use it can save you from a messy situation. In this article, we will delve deep into the world of toilet plungers, covering everything from types and techniques to FAQs and maintenance. Let’s dive right in!

Top 10 Best Toilet Plungers in 2023

BEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger | 96-4AM

Mybest’s Top Choice! Fast and Effective Toilet Plunger That’s Easy to Use

It appears to be an effective tool for clearing toilet clogs, thanks to its unique beehive-shaped head and T-shaped handle. The design of the head, with a thick upper part and a thin, flexible bottom part, seems to create an airtight seal and prevent splashing, which is quite convenient.

The T-shaped handle with a matte finish sounds comfortable to hold, but its large size and weight might make it a bit challenging to carry around. Nevertheless, the primary function of easily clearing blockages is the key feature of this plunger, making it a valuable tool for addressing toilet clogs.

For those who are concerned about sanitation, you mentioned that there is an option to purchase a plunger holder that supports this product, which is a practical addition.

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Toilet Plunger

Effective on Clogs, and We Especially Love the Caddy

The Clorox toilet plunger stands out thanks to its 15-and-a-half-inch ergonomic handle. It includes a caddy that conceals the rubber head, maintaining a sleek and clean bathroom appearance. During our testing, this product efficiently cleared a clog with just four plunges and minimal effort, delivering a stress-free experience. Its ability to create an airtight seal around the pipe means you don’t have to exert much force, reducing splashing and making it easier to clean the floor afterward.

The handle features a broad, triangular tip at the top, ensuring it doesn’t dig into your hand during use. However, it’s made of a slippery material, which slightly affects ease of handling.

In terms of sanitation, this product received high marks for its self-opening and -closing caddy, complete with a drip tray inside. Thanks to excellent ventilation, the plunger head dries efficiently and can be stored without causing any wetness on the floor. It’s incredibly user-friendly, as it automatically opens when you lift the plunger and closes when you place it back in the caddy.

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60166A Toilet Plunger

Any Toilet, Any Shape, No Splashing

NEIKO’s toilet plunger boasts a four-step level suction cup design and claims to create a seal around almost any toilet drain opening. Its handle is constructed from aluminum, giving it an easy-to-use and stylish modern appearance. During our testing, this plunger effectively cleared a toilet paper blockage in just five plunges.

It certainly lived up to its claim by forming a tight seal around the toilet drain. With each plunge, we could feel water being pushed out without the need for excessive force, resulting in minimal splashing, which is a notable advantage. The handle is well-sized for gripping and accommodates hands of all sizes comfortably. However, there is a downside as the hook on the tip caused discomfort and disrupted the plunging process. Additionally, the lack of a rubber grip made it prone to slipping, making it challenging to maintain a secure grip.

One drawback is that it doesn’t come with a caddy, which affects its sanitation score. Nonetheless, it earns points for its aluminum handle, which is resistant to rust, mold, and household bacteria. For those with sanitation concerns, it might be worth considering purchasing a separate caddy with an attached toilet brush. If you’re worried about whether this plunger will fit your toilet or prefer to store it by hanging it on a hook, we recommend this product as a suitable choice.

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Toilet Plunger With Caddy

Takes a Lot of Plunges to Clear Clogs, but the Caddy Has Good Airflow

During our testing, the Yanxus plunger required 11 pumps to clear a blockage, which wasn’t the most efficient result. However, the hard rubber head does an excellent job of creating a powerful seal, reducing the need for excessive strength during use. This mitigates the stress of having to plunge 11 times.

The plunger features an ergonomically designed handle with a rounded tip, making it reasonably easy to use. We didn’t experience any discomfort from the handle digging into our hands. However, it’s worth noting that the plunger weighs one pound and two ounces, which can make it a bit heavy when cleaning or moving it around. In terms of design, we were impressed by the self-opening and -closing caddy, which automatically opens when the plunger is lifted and closes when it’s placed back in the caddy. Additionally, it includes a ventilation slot to enhance airflow within the drip tray integrated into the caddy.

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Good Grips Toilet Plunger With Holder

The Caddy Is Hygienic, but It Splashes a Lot of Water

The Good Grips toilet plunger by OXO is designed with the concept of universal design in mind. Its rubber head is intended to work effectively on all types of toilets, including low-flush models. In our testing, it did require 11 plunges to clear a blockage, which may not be the most efficient performance. However, the plunger’s handle features a rounded tip, making it easy and stress-free to use, and the shaft’s surface offers a comfortable grip.

On the downside, this product weighs one pound and 2.4 ounces, making it somewhat challenging to handle during use. It performed poorly in terms of splash resistance, leading to water overflow. It’s advisable to cover the floor with rags or newspaper when using this product. However, the handle’s length was sufficient to prevent dirty water from splashing onto our hands.

The plunger comes with a self-opening and -closing holder, which includes a drip tray with excellent ventilation, facilitating efficient water evaporation. Nevertheless, due to the extended effort required to clear blockages and the significant splashing it causes, it falls a bit short compared to top-ranked products.

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Toilet Plunger and Caddy

Sleek Steel Finish, but the Small Cup Makes Getting a Good Seal Tough

The Simplehuman toilet plunger features a handle crafted from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, giving it a sleek and stylish finish. It comes with an accompanying caddy equipped with a magnet for a stylish storage solution. However, in our testing, it required quite a bit of effort to clear a toilet paper clog, specifically 12 plunges. The cup on the plunger proved to be somewhat small, making it challenging to establish a reliable airtight seal over the drain hole of the toilet we used. This difficulty in sealing led to significant splashing during use.

One notable feature is the substantial tip at the end of the handle, which is excellent for gripping. Additionally, the narrow part of the handle is easy to grasp, offering a comfortable user experience in that regard. On the downside, the plunger is relatively heavy, weighing in at one pound and seven ounces. However, attaching the magnet to the plunger allows you to pick them up together conveniently, which can be useful for cleaning the floor. Another positive aspect is the plunger’s ability to hide the rubber head. Overall, it’s not a bad choice if you’re seeking a toilet plunger with a sanitary and stylish design.

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Drain Plunger

Lightweight and Easy to Move, but Gets Your Hands Dirty

The Rocky Mountain Goods plunger is a compact option with a handle length of just nine inches. It’s versatile and can be used not only for toilets but also for sinks, bathtubs, and shower drains. In our testing, it required 10 plunges to clear a clogged pipe. Thanks to its snug fit to the drain at the bottom of the toilet bowl, it generated a decent amount of power when pushing water. However, a notable drawback of this plunger, especially for toilet use, is its short handle, which can result in dirty water getting on your hands. As a result, this plunger is best suited for toilets with a shallow bottom.

Despite its ability to minimize splashing, the wooden handle tends to get soaked with dirty water, raising sanitation concerns. Additionally, the wooden handle can be challenging to grip and push due to its material. On the plus side, it’s exceptionally lightweight, weighing in at only five ounces, making it very easy to carry. If your primary use for a plunger is for sinks or showers, this option may be worth considering.

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Toilet Plunger with Caddy

Not Very Effective and Weak Construction

Luigi’s toilet plunger claims to clear pipes by using water rather than air, thanks to its unique bellows-like design that can reach deep into the drain. However, in our testing, we found that even after 15 pumps, we were unable to unclog the pipe effectively. Blasting water through it didn’t require much strength, but it did result in a noticeable amount of splashing.

On the positive side, the wide tip of the handle made it easy to use. However, it’s worth noting that the joint in the handle appeared to be weak and prone to bending.

The included caddy received a good score in our evaluation. However, it’s important to note that the caddy is deep and lacks a drip tray, so it’s essential to keep it clean to avoid any potential mess. Despite its innovative approach, Luigi’s toilet plunger may not be the most effective choice for clearing clogs based on our testing experience.

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Toilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo

The Small Head Doesn’t Fit Tightly to the Bowl, and Expect Splashing

The MR.SIGA toilet plunger and brush combo features an all-black design that adds a touch of chicness to your bathroom while keeping your essential toilet items conveniently organized. However, in our testing, this product proved less effective in unclogging pipes, moving the blockage only two inches after 15 plunges. This lack of performance may be attributed to the small size of the cup and its inability to create a tight seal.

Another concern we had was the thin tip of the handle, which could dig into your hand and make it challenging to use comfortably. In terms of splashing, we observed a significant amount of water overflowing from the bowl due to the need for vigorous plunging. While it appears to have a sanitary design with the included caddy, it’s important to note that it lacks a drip tray, which could be a drawback. Despite its sleek appearance and organizational benefits, the MR.SIGA toilet plunger and brush combo may not be the most efficient choice for effectively clearing clogs based on our testing experience.

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Accordion Toilet Plunger

Takes Some Strength to Use and Pushes Water Out of the Bowl

The DEFLECTAIR is an accordion-type plunger designed to push out a substantial amount of water. One of its advantages is that both the handle and head can be disassembled, making it easy to clean. However, in our testing, it only managed to move a toilet paper blockage three-quarters of an inch after 15 plunges.

The accordion-style head has a tendency to retain a significant amount of water, requiring considerable force to push, which results in a notable amount of water spilling from the bowl during use. From a sanitation perspective, it’s user-friendly for cleaning purposes because it’s made of plastic and can be disassembled. However, it’s worth mentioning that it doesn’t come with a caddy, so you’ll need to place it directly on the floor for storage. While the DEFLECTAIR offers some conveniences like easy disassembly, its performance in terms of clearing clogs may leave something to be desired based on our testing experience.

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How to Choose a Toilet Plunger

Type of Plunger:

Flange Plunger (Toilet Plunger): This is the most common type used for toilets. It has a soft rubber flap (flange) that creates a seal around the drain opening, making it more effective for toilet clogs.

Cup Plunger (Sink Plunger): These are better suited for sinks and flat surfaces. They lack the flange and are designed for different types of drains.

Material:

Look for plungers with a rubber or silicone suction cup. These materials provide a better seal and are more durable.

Handle Length:

Choose a plunger with a handle long enough to provide sufficient leverage without having to bend over excessively.

Storage:

Consider the storage space you have available. Some plungers come with a foldable handle, making them more compact for storage.

Hygiene:

Some plungers come with antimicrobial coatings or covers to prevent the growth of bacteria. This can be a good option for improved hygiene.

Price and Quality:

While you don’t need to splurge on a plunger, investing in a good quality one can make a difference in its effectiveness and longevity.

Reviews and Recommendations:

Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family to find a plunger that has proven to be effective for others.

Warranty:

Some manufacturers offer warranties on their plungers, which can be a sign of their confidence in the product’s durability.

Ease of Use:

Ensure that the plunger is easy to handle and maneuver within your toilet bowl.

Compatibility:

Make sure the plunger you choose is suitable for your specific toilet type and shape.

Remember that proper plunging technique is also crucial for success. To plunge a toilet effectively, place the plunger over the drain opening, push down firmly, and then pull up forcefully to create suction and dislodge the clog. Repeat as necessary until the water starts to drain.

Toilet Plungers: A Brief Overview

Toilet plungers are specialized devices designed to clear blockages in your toilet’s drainage system. They work on the principle of creating a seal around the drain and using hydraulic pressure to dislodge obstructions. There are primarily two types of toilet plungers:

Flange Plungers

Flange plungers, also known as cup plungers, feature a soft rubber cup with a flange, or an extended rim. This design helps create a better seal around the drain, making them highly effective for toilet unclogging.

Ball Plungers

Ball plungers, on the other hand, have a round, ball-shaped rubber head. They are more versatile and can be used for both toilets and sinks, making them a handy tool to have around the house.

Choosing the Right Toilet Plunger

Selecting the right plunger is indeed crucial for effectively unclogging drains. Here are some important factors to consider:

Type of Plunger: The first step is to choose the right type of plunger. There are two common types:

Flange Plunger: This type is designed for flat surfaces, making it suitable for sinks and bathtubs.

Ball Plunger: Ball plungers have a more rounded head and are ideal for use in toilets.

Handle Length: A longer handle can provide better leverage, which is especially important when dealing with stubborn clogs or when you need to work in tight spaces.

Material: Look for a plunger with a durable rubber head. Rubber is effective at creating a tight seal around the drain, which is essential for generating the suction needed to clear clogs. A good-quality rubber head ensures longevity.

Storage: Consider a plunger that comes with a drip tray or caddy. This is not only convenient for keeping your plunger organized but also helps maintain hygienic conditions since you can store it separately from other cleaning tools.

By taking these factors into account, you can select the right plunger for your specific needs and increase your chances of successfully unclogging drains.

How to Use a Toilet Plunger

Certainly, here are the steps for effectively using a plunger to unclog a drain:

Create a Seal:

Place the plunger over the drain and make sure it covers it completely. Ensure a tight seal is formed between the plunger and the drain opening.

Apply Pressure:

Gently push down on the plunger, and then pull up forcefully. This action creates suction inside the drain.

Repeat:

Repeat the plunging motion several times. The back-and-forth plunging action helps dislodge the clog and allows water to flow freely.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of effectively unclogging the drain using a plunger.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a sink plunger for a toilet?

Yes, ball plungers are versatile and can be used for both toilets and sinks.

Q: What if plunging doesn’t work?

If plunging fails, consider using a toilet auger or calling a plumber for more severe clogs.

Q: How can I prevent toilet clogs?

Regular maintenance, avoiding flushing non-flushable items, and using septic-safe toilet paper can help prevent clogs.

Q: Are there any alternatives to using chemicals?

Yes, you can try using a homemade drain cleaner with vinegar and baking soda as a more eco-friendly option.

Q: How often should I clean my plunger?

After each use, rinse the plunger thoroughly and store it in a clean, dry place.

Q: Can I unclog a toilet without a plunger?

In a pinch, you can try using a plastic bag as an improvised plunger. Be sure to wear gloves and proceed with caution.

Conclusion

Toilet plungers are a simple yet indispensable tool that every homeowner should have in their arsenal. Knowing how to choose the right plunger, use it effectively, and maintain it properly can save you time, money, and frustration when dealing with unexpected toilet clogs. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any plumbing challenge that comes your way.

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