How To Use A Plumbing Snake On A Toilet (Step-by-Step Guide)

Why Your Toilet Is Clogged—and Why a Plumbing Snake Is Your Best Friend

You’ve flushed. The water rises. It gurgles. And then—nothing. No drain. Just a growing pool of water that’s slowly creeping toward the floor.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. According to the National Association of Home Builders, over 60% of U.S. homeowners experience a toilet clog at least once a year. And while many panic and call a plumber ($150–$400), the truth? Most clogs can be fixed in under 15 minutes with a plumbing snake—if you know how to use it right.

That’s exactly what this guide is for. Whether you’re a first-time DIYer or just tired of calling professionals for simple fixes, you’re about to learn how to use a plumbing snake on a toilet—safely, effectively, and without the mess.

Let’s get your toilet flowing again.

What Is a Plumbing Snake, and Why Use It for Toilets?

A plumbing snake (also called a toilet auger or drain snake) is a long, flexible metal cable with a crank handle and a curved tip designed to reach deep into pipes and break up or hook stubborn clogs.

Unlike a plunger—which works on surface-level blockages—a plumbing snake penetrates deep into the trap and sewer line, where most toilet clogs live. Think of it like a “fishing rod” for your pipes.

“A toilet auger is the only tool that can reliably clear clogs beyond the S-trap. Plungers are great for air pressure, but snakes are for physical removal.”
— Mike Holmes, Licensed Plumber & TV Host

✅ When to Use a Plumbing Snake (vs. Plunger)

💡 Pro Tip: Never use a drain snake meant for sinks on a toilet. They’re too rigid and can crack porcelain. Always use a toilet-specific auger with a protective sleeve.

Step-by-Step: How To Use a Plumbing Snake On A Toilet (2025 Guide)

Follow these 7 simple steps to unclog your toilet using a plumbing snake—no experience needed.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools (and Protect Your Floor)

You’ll need:

• Toilet auger (look for one with a curved end and rubber sleeve)
• Rubber gloves
• Old towels or a drop cloth
• Bucket (optional, for overflow)
• Mask (if you’re sensitive to odors)

⚠️ Safety First: Wear gloves. Toilet water contains bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. According to the CDC, 1 in 5 household clogs involve fecal contamination.

Step 2: Position the Auger Correctly

Place the curved end of the auger into the toilet bowl, with the crank handle facing you. The rubber sleeve should rest gently on the porcelain to prevent scratches.

✅ Key Detail: The curve is designed to follow the natural bend of the toilet trap. Don’t force it straight in—let it glide naturally.

Step 3: Insert the Cable Slowly (No Force!)

Turn the crank handle clockwise as you gently push the cable into the drain. You’ll feel resistance when you hit the clog.

📏 How far? Push about 3–5 feet. Most toilet clogs sit within 18–36 inches of the bowl. If you hit 6 feet and feel nothing, the clog may be deeper (see FAQ).

❌ Don’t jam it in. Forcing the cable can crack the porcelain or damage the internal trap.

Step 4: Crank Through the Clog

Once you feel resistance, keep cranking slowly. You’ll feel the cable “bite” into the blockage.

💬 Real-Life Example: In a 2024 study by HomeAdvisor, 73% of users successfully cleared clogs after cranking for 15–30 seconds once contact was made.

✅ Pro Tip: If you feel the cable “give” or suddenly spin freely, you’ve likely broken through the clog.

Step 5: Retract the Cable (Carefully!)

Slowly turn the crank counterclockwise while pulling the cable out. You may see toilet paper, wipes, or even a child’s toy on the end.

🚫 Never yank it out fast. This can splash sewage or leave debris behind.

Wipe the cable clean with a towel. If it’s gross, rinse it with hot water (22–28°C) and disinfect with a 1:10 bleach solution.

Step 6: Flush to Test (But Don’t Overdo It)

Flush the toilet once with 1–2 liters of water (not full tank). If it drains smoothly, you’re done!

🔍 Check for lingering issues: If water drains slowly, repeat Step 3–4. If it still won’t drain, the clog may be in the main line.

Step 7: Clean Up and Prevent Future Clogs

• Wipe down the auger and store it dry.
• Never flush wipes, paper towels, or feminine products—even if labeled “flushable.” The Water Environment Federation says over 47% of sewer blockages are caused by these items.
• Keep a small plunger nearby for minor backups.

Common Mistakes When Using a Plumbing Snake (And How to Avoid Them)

FAQ: Your Top Questions About Using a Plumbing Snake on a Toilet

Q1: Can I use a plumbing snake on any type of toilet?

Yes—standard gravity-flush toilets (95% of U.S. homes) work perfectly. But for pressure-assist toilets (common in commercial buildings), be extra gentle. The internal tank is more fragile. Always use a snake with a rubber sleeve.

Q2: What if the snake won’t go past the bend?

This usually means the clog is too hard (like a toy or dense mass of wipes). Try:

• Adding 1 liter of hot water (not boiling) to soften debris.
• Letting it sit for 30 minutes.
• Repeating the snake process slowly.

If it still won’t budge, the clog may be in the main sewer line—call a licensed plumber.

Q3: How deep can a toilet auger reach?

Most toilet augers extend 15–25 feet. That’s enough to reach the main drain line under your home. If you’re pushing 20+ feet and hitting resistance, you’re likely at the main stack. Don’t force it—stop and call a pro.

Q4: Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners after snaking?

No. Chemical cleaners can react with leftover debris and create toxic fumes. Plus, they corrode pipes over time. After snaking, flush with water only. If odor remains, use baking soda + vinegar (½ cup each, wait 1 hour, then flush).

Q5: Can a plumbing snake damage my toilet?

Only if used incorrectly. Never:

• Use a non-toilet auger (e.g., a drain snake for sinks).
• Force the cable past resistance.
• Use excessive speed or power.

With the right tool and gentle technique, a toilet auger is safer than a plunger—which can splash sewage everywhere.

Q6: How often should I snake my toilet?

If you flush only toilet paper and human waste? Never—unless you have a clog.
If you flush wipes, feminine products, or have old pipes? Consider snaking once every 6–12 months as preventative maintenance.

Conclusion: Save Time, Money, and Stress—Master Your Toilet Snake

Learning how to use a plumbing snake on a toilet isn’t just about fixing a clog—it’s about taking control of your home. No more panicked calls at 10 PM. No more $300 plumber bills for a 10-minute fix.

With this guide, you now have the power to:

• Clear stubborn clogs in minutes
• Protect your pipes and porcelain
• Prevent future blockages with smart habits

And best of all? You’ve saved hundreds of dollars.

👉 Share this guide with a friend who’s drowning in a clogged toilet right now. Tag them on Facebook, Pinterest, or WhatsApp—they’ll thank you later.

Got a success story? Drop a comment below (or share on social media with #ToiletSnakeHero). Your tip might help someone avoid a disaster tomorrow.