As a household essential, the toilet plunger is used to unclog toilets and prevent overflowing. It’s a tool that every homeowner should have. However, when it comes to using a plunger, there are some dos and don’ts that you need to follow to ensure that you use it correctly and effectively.
Dos
Use the Right Plunger
The first thing you need to do when using a toilet plunger is to make sure that you have the right one. There are two types of plungers available in the market: the cup plunger and the flange plunger. The cup plunger is the most common type of plunger and is used for unclogging sinks, tubs, and showers. On the other hand, the flange plunger is specifically designed for toilets. It has an extra flap that fits inside the toilet drain, creating a tight seal around the clogged area.
When using a plunger, it’s crucial to choose the right one for the job. Using the wrong plunger can make the situation even worse.
Wear Gloves
When using a plunger, it’s always a good idea to wear gloves. Gloves not only protect your hands from bacteria and germs but also provide a better grip on the plunger handle. You can use latex gloves or any other type of gloves that you have at home. Just make sure that they are disposable so that you can throw them away after use.
Add Water
Before using the plunger, add some water to the toilet bowl. The water helps create a vacuum that makes plunging more effective. If there isn’t enough water in the bowl, the plunger won’t work correctly. So, if the water level is low, add a few buckets of water to the bowl before you start plunging.
Create a Seal
Creating a tight seal is crucial when using a plunger. The seal helps create the vacuum that’s needed to dislodge the clog. To create a seal, place the plunger over the toilet drain and press down gently until it creates a vacuum. Make sure that the plunger covers the drain entirely and create a tight seal around the clogged area.
Use the Right Technique
When using a plunger, it’s essential to use the right technique. Use the plunger handle to pump up and down, creating suction and pressure that will dislodge the clog. Start with gentle strokes and increase the intensity gradually. Don’t use too much force, or you might damage the toilet bowl.
Be Patient
Plunging can take some time, so be patient. It might take a few minutes, or even longer, for the clog to be dislodged. Don’t give up too soon. Keep plunging until you see the water level in the bowl start to go down. Once the water starts to drain, flush the toilet to see if it’s fully unclogged.
Clean the Plunger
After using the plunger, clean it thoroughly. Rinse it with hot water and disinfect it with bleach or any other cleaning solution that you have at home. Let it dry before storing it away.
Don’ts
Don’t Use Chemicals
Using chemicals to unclog a toilet might seem like an easy solution, but it’s not. Chemicals can damage the toilet bowl and pipes, and they are hazardous to your health. They can also cause corrosion and other plumbing problems that can be expensive to fix. So, avoid using chemicals and stick to the plunger.
Don’t Flush the Toilet Repeatedly
If the toilet is clogged, don’t keep flushing it. Flushing repeatedly can cause the water to overflow and create a bigger mess. It can also cause the toilet bowl to crack or break. So, if the toilet doesn’t flush correctly, stop using it and call a plumber.
Don’t Use a Plunger on a Severely Clogged Toilet
If the toilet is severely clogged, don’t try to unclog it with a plunger. Using a plunger on a severely clogged toilet can cause the bowl to crack or break. It can also damage the pipes and cause more significant plumbing problems. So, if the toilet is severely clogged, call a plumber.
Don’t Use the Plunger Incorrectly
Using the plunger incorrectly can cause more problems than it solves. Don’t use the plunger forcefully or aggressively, or you might damage the toilet bowl or pipes. Make sure that you create a tight seal around the clogged area and use the right technique to pump the plunger up and down.