How to Use a Plumber’s Snake to Unclog a Toilet (Step-by-Step Guide)

A clogged toilet is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a household emergency that demands immediate attention. If your plunger isn’t cutting it, how to use a plumber’s snake to unclog a toilet becomes your next best solution. Don’t panic: with the right tool and a few simple steps, you can clear even stubborn blockages without calling a pro. This guide walks you through the entire process safely, effectively, and confidently—even if you’ve never touched a plumbing tool before.

What Is a Plumber’s Snake (Toilet Auger)?

A plumber’s snake, also known as a toilet auger or closet auger, is a specialized drain-clearing tool designed specifically for toilets. Unlike standard drain snakes used for sinks, a toilet auger features a long, flexible metal cable (typically 3–6 feet) with a curved tip and a protective sleeve to prevent scratching your porcelain bowl.

💡 Did You Know?
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, over 30% of household plumbing emergencies stem from clogged toilets—many of which could be resolved with a $20 auger.

Unlike chemical drain cleaners (which can damage pipes and harm the environment), a plumber’s snake physically breaks up or retrieves the clog, making it the safest and most effective mechanical solution for toilet blockages.

For more on drain-clearing tools, see Wikipedia’s overview of plumbing snakes .

When Should You Use a Plumber’s Snake?

Not every clog needs a snake—but here’s when it’s time to pull one out:

• Plunging failed after 5–10 solid attempts
• Water rises dangerously close to the rim with each flush
• The toilet drains very slowly or not at all
• You suspect a foreign object (toy, wipes, etc.) is stuck

⚠️ Never use a standard drain snake in a toilet. Its exposed metal cable can scratch or crack porcelain, leading to costly replacements.

Tools & Safety Gear You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these essentials:

Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Safety first—always!

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Plumber’s Snake to Unclog a Toilet

Follow these precise steps for best results:

Step 1: Lower Water Level (If Needed)

If the bowl is nearly overflowing, remove 1–2 liters of water using a small cup or wet-dry vacuum. This prevents splashing and gives the auger room to work.

Step 2: Insert the Auger into the Drain Hole

Position the curved tip of the auger into the toilet’s drain opening (at the bottom of the bowl). Push it in gently until you feel resistance—this is likely the clog.

Step 3: Crank the Handle Clockwise

Slowly turn the handle clockwise while applying light downward pressure. The cable will feed deeper into the trap or drain line.

• Do not force it—let the auger’s rotation do the work.
• If you hit a hard stop, rotate while gently pushing to break through or hook the obstruction.

Step 4: Hook or Break Up the Clog

Once you feel the cable move freely (or resistance lessens), rotate the handle counterclockwise while slowly pulling the cable back. This may retrieve the clog (e.g., a clump of wipes or paper).

Step 5: Flush and Test

Flush the toilet once to check drainage. If it clears fully, you’re done! If not, repeat Steps 2–4. Most clogs resolve in 1–2 attempts.

Step 6: Clean and Disinfect

Rinse the auger thoroughly with hot water, then spray with disinfectant. Wipe down the toilet base and floor to maintain hygiene.

✅ Pro Tip: Store your auger in a sealed plastic bin to avoid cross-contamination with other tools.

Plunger vs. Plumber’s Snake: Which Should You Use First?

Always try a plunger first. If it fails after 5–10 firm plunges, switch to a plumber’s snake. Using both in sequence resolves over 90% of residential toilet clogs, according to HomeAdvisor’s 2024 Plumbing Report.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using a sink auger in a toilet → Risks porcelain damage
• Forcing the cable too hard → Can kink the cable or damage pipes
• Skipping gloves → Exposure to harmful bacteria like E. coli
• Flushing repeatedly → Causes overflow and water damage

Remember: patience and technique beat brute force every time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a regular drain snake instead of a toilet auger?
No. Standard drain snakes lack the protective sleeve and curved tip needed for toilets. They can scratch porcelain and worsen the problem. Always use a toilet-specific auger.

Q2: How deep does a plumber’s snake go in a toilet?
Most toilet augers reach 3 to 6 feet, which covers the P-trap and the initial section of the main drain—where 95% of clogs occur.

Q3: Why won’t my toilet unclog even with a snake?
Possible reasons:

• The clog is farther down the main sewer line
• There’s a vent stack blockage affecting drainage
• Tree roots or pipe collapse (common in older homes)
  If the problem persists, call a licensed plumber.

Q4: Is it safe to use a plumber’s snake on a low-flow toilet?
Yes—if you use a toilet auger (not a generic snake). Low-flow toilets have tighter bends, but augers are designed to navigate them safely.

Q5: How often should I clean my plumber’s snake?
Clean and disinfect after every use. Store it dry to prevent rust and bacterial growth.

Q6: Can I rent a plumber’s snake?
Yes! Most hardware stores (like Home Depot or Lowe’s) rent augers for $10–$15/day. But for under $25, buying your own is a smart long-term investment.

Conclusion

Knowing how to use a plumber’s snake to unclog a toilet puts you in control of one of the most common—and stressful—home emergencies. With minimal cost, zero chemicals, and just 10–15 minutes of your time, you can restore normal function without waiting for a plumber or risking water damage.

This skill not only saves money (the average service call costs $150–$300, per Angi’s 2025 data) but also builds confidence in handling future plumbing issues.

👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend or on social media! A quick share could save someone from a flooded bathroom—or an expensive repair bill.

Stay prepared. Stay calm. And never fear a clogged toilet again.