Media Platforms Design TeamThe old standby red cup plunger can work great to unclog sinks and bathtubs. But it’s an amateur move to use it on a clogged toilet.Media Platforms Design TeamThe right tool for this unpleasant job is a toilet plunger (shown above), which has a flange on the end that fits snugly into the opening at the bottom of a toilet. A bellow-type plunger is also effective for clearing clogged toilets.In a pinch, the flange on a toilet plunger can be turned upward and you can use this tool like a cup plunger, but it’s best to keep two different plungers for the two types of clogs. Timothy DahlDIY EditorTimothy is a lifelong DIY enthusiast who is fixated on smart home tech, beautiful tools, and wrenching on his FJ62 Land Cruiser. He’s the DIY editor at Popular Mechanics and also the founder of the home improvement site, Charles & Hudson, the Webby-nominated family site, Built by Kids, and Tool Crave. When not working, you’ll find him on his board or bike enjoying the LA weather with his family and friends. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter.
