You’re standing in front of a slow-draining sink or a backed-up shower—and you need a solution now. Before you call a plumber and pay $150+ for a simple clog, you’re probably wondering: how much does a plumbing snake cost at Walmart? Good news: Walmart offers affordable, effective drain snakes for under $20 in most cases. Whether you’re a weekend DIYer or just tired of smelly drains, this guide gives you real-time pricing, product comparisons, and pro tips to choose the right tool without overspending.
What Is a Plumbing Snake—and Do You Really Need One?
A plumbing snake (also called a drain auger) is a flexible, coiled metal cable designed to break up or retrieve blockages in pipes. It’s one of the most effective DIY tools for clearing hair, grease, food waste, and other common clogs without damaging your plumbing.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 70% of household drain issues can be resolved with basic mechanical tools like a plumbing snake—making it a smart investment for any homeowner.
💡 Pro Tip: If your plunger isn’t working after 2–3 tries, it’s time to bring in a snake.
How Much Does a Plumbing Snake Cost at Walmart? (2025 Prices)
As of November 2025, Walmart sells a range of plumbing snakes both in-store and online. Prices vary based on type, length, and features:
🛒 Note: Most Walmart stores carry at least 2–3 types of manual drain snakes in the plumbing aisle (usually near toilet brushes and plungers). For the widest selection, check Walmart.com.
Top 3 Plumbing Snakes Available at Walmart (2025)
1. Ridgid 1/4-In. x 15-Foot Hand Auger
Price: $16.97
Why It’s Great: Durable steel cable, ergonomic handle, and easy to store. Ideal for bathroom sinks and tubs.
User Rating: 4.6/5 (1,200+ reviews)
2. Plumb Craft 3-Foot Mini Drain Snake
Price: $7.44
Why It’s Great: Compact, flexible, and perfect for quick kitchen clogs. Comes with a built-in crank.
Best For: Renters or small-space dwellers.
3. Korky 36005 Toilet Auger
Price: $22.88
Why It’s Great: Specially designed for toilets—won’t scratch porcelain. Extends up to 3 feet into the drain line.
Expert Pick: Recommended by This Old House for safe, effective toilet unclogging.
Manual vs. Electric Snakes: Which Should You Buy?
Not all clogs are created equal. Here’s how to decide:
✅ Choose a Manual Snake If:
The clog is in a sink, tub, or shower (within 15–25 feet of the drain)
You want something affordable and easy to store
You’re comfortable with light physical effort
⚡ Choose an Electric Snake If:
You have recurring clogs or a main sewer line issue
The clog is deep (beyond 25 feet)
You lack hand strength or mobility
📊 Stat: A 2024 survey by HomeAdvisor found that 89% of homeowners successfully cleared minor clogs using manual snakes—no electric tools needed.
How to Use a Plumbing Snake (Step-by-Step)
Using a drain snake is simple if you follow these steps:
Remove visible debris from the drain (e.g., hair in a shower strainer).
Extend 6–8 inches of the snake cable and insert it into the drain opening.
Slowly crank the handle clockwise while gently pushing the cable deeper.
Feel for resistance—this indicates the clog. Keep cranking to hook or break it up.
Pull the snake out slowly. Clean off any gunk with a paper towel.
Flush with hot water (2 liters at 50–60°C / 120–140°F) to clear residual debris.
⚠️ Warning: Never force the snake. If you meet strong resistance, stop—you may have a pipe bend or serious blockage needing a pro.
Using a toilet auger on a sink → Can damage sink finishes.
Rotating counterclockwise → May unwind the cable.
Skipping protective gloves → Drain gunk is unsanitary.
Ignoring recurring clogs → Could signal a larger issue (e.g., tree roots in sewer line).
Walmart vs. Other Retailers: Is Walmart the Best Deal?
Let’s compare average prices for a standard 25-foot hand auger:
Retailer
Avg. Price
In-Store Availability
Return Policy
Walmart
$12–$18
High (most locations)
90 days
Home Depot
$15–$25
High
90 days
Lowe’s
$14–$22
Medium
90 days
Amazon
$10–$20
Online only
Varies
Walmart often offers the lowest entry-level price, especially for budget brands like Plumb Craft or Danco. Plus, you can pick it up same-day—no waiting for shipping.
FAQ Section
Q: Does Walmart sell plumbing snakes in-store?
A: Yes! Most Walmart Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets carry at least 2–3 types of manual drain snakes in the home improvement or plumbing section.
Q: How long is a typical plumbing snake at Walmart?
A: Most manual models range from 3 feet (mini) to 25 feet (standard). Toilet augers are usually 3–5 feet long but designed for deeper toilet traps.
Q: Can I return a plumbing snake to Walmart?
A: Yes—Walmart accepts returns within 90 days with or without a receipt (though store credit may apply without proof of purchase).
Q: Is a plumbing snake safe for PVC pipes?
A: Yes, when used correctly. Avoid excessive force, and never use a metal snake on old or brittle pipes. For PVC, a plastic-coated or flexible auger is safest.
Q: What’s the difference between a drain snake and a drain cleaner?
A: A drain snake is a mechanical tool that physically removes clogs. Drain cleaners are chemical solutions that dissolve blockages—but can corrode pipes over time.
Q: How often should I use a plumbing snake?
A: Only when needed. For maintenance, consider monthly hot water flushes. Frequent snaking may indicate an underlying plumbing issue.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumbing snake cost at Walmart? Typically between $5 and $25, depending on the type and length. For most homeowners, a $10–$20 manual snake is all you need to tackle 90% of household clogs—saving you time, money, and the stress of waiting for a plumber.
Before you head to the store or click “Add to Cart,” remember: the right tool + proper technique = a free-flowing drain in under 10 minutes.
🔧 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s battling a clogged sink—or pin it for your next DIY emergency!
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