How to Use a Plunger Like a Pro (and When Not To)

A clogged toilet or slow drain always seems to happen at the worst possible time—right before guests arrive, during a busy workday, or late at night when you’re trying to relax. The good news? Many common clogs can be cleared quickly with the right tool and technique.

The even better news: you don’t need to be a plumber to use a plunger like a pro. You just need the right plunger, the right setup, and a few key steps that most people skip.

In this guide, we’ll cover exactly how to use a plunger correctly, what mistakes to avoid, and when it’s time to stop plunging and call a professional plumber in Mobile, AL. If you need help fast, Walley Plumbing Company is here for you.

👉 Visit our website to learn more about our services: Walley Plumbing Company

Why Plunging Works (and Why It Often Doesn’t)

Most people think plungers “suck” a clog out. But plunging works primarily by creating pressure changes in the pipe:

A good seal forms around the drain opening
You push and pull to create pressure + suction
That pressure helps break up the blockage and get it moving again

When plunging fails, it’s usually because:

The wrong plunger is being used
There’s no seal
The clog is too deep or too solid
There’s a bigger plumbing issue (like a sewer line problem)

Step 1: Use the Right Type of Plunger

Not all plungers are the same—and using the wrong one is one of the biggest reasons people struggle.

🚽 Best plunger for toilets: Flange plunger

A flange plunger has an extra rubber “tube” that extends from the bottom, designed to fit inside a toilet drain opening and create a strong seal.

🚰 Best plunger for sinks/tubs: Cup plunger

A standard cup plunger has a flat rubber bottom and works best on flat surfaces like:

bathroom sinks
kitchen sinks
tubs and showers

Pro tip: If you only own one plunger, make it a flange plunger—it can still work on some drains, but it’s ideal for toilets.

Step 2: Prep the Area (This Step Saves You From a Mess)

Before you start plunging, take 60 seconds to set up properly.

For toilets:

If the water is high, don’t flush again.
Put towels around the base of the toilet.
Wear gloves if possible.
If the bowl is too full, remove some water with a cup into a bucket.

For sinks:

Remove standing water until it’s just covering the plunger rim (a little water helps seal).
For double sinks, plug the other drain with a wet rag or stopper.
For bathroom sinks, cover the overflow hole with a damp cloth.

Why it matters: Air escapes through openings like overflow drains, which reduces plunging power.

Step 3: The Correct Way to Plunge (Most People Do It Backwards)

Here’s the method plumbers trust.

✅ How to plunge a toilet like a pro

Place the plunger into the bowl and press it down gently to force air out.
Make sure the flange is seated in the drain opening.
Push down firmly, then pull up slightly—without breaking the seal.
Repeat for 15–20 seconds with controlled force.
Pause and see if the water starts draining.
If it drains, flush once to confirm it’s clear.

Important: Don’t plunge wildly. A steady rhythm works better and reduces splashing.

✅ How to plunge a sink or tub drain

Place the cup plunger over the drain opening.
Add enough water to cover the rubber lip.
Push and pull firmly for 20–30 seconds.
Test drainage by running water briefly.

Step 4: Use Hot Water (But Not Boiling) to Help Break Up the Clog

If plunging isn’t working immediately, try this trick—especially for toilet paper or organic buildup.

Safe hot water method:

Heat water until it’s hot but not boiling
Pour it slowly into the toilet bowl
Wait 10–15 minutes
Try plunging again

⚠️ Never use boiling water in a toilet. It can crack porcelain and cause expensive damage.

Common Plunging Mistakes to Avoid

Even a small mistake can turn a quick fix into a bigger problem.

❌ Mistake #1: Using a sink plunger on a toilet

It won’t seal well and won’t generate enough pressure.

❌ Mistake #2: Not sealing overflow openings

This is why bathroom sinks often won’t unclog even after lots of effort.

❌ Mistake #3: Flushing repeatedly

If it’s clogged, repeated flushing can cause an overflow.

❌ Mistake #4: Using chemical drain cleaners first

Many store-bought drain cleaners are harsh and can:

damage pipes
cause corrosion
create dangerous splash-back if you plunge afterward

The EPA notes that some drain cleaners can be harmful and should be handled carefully. For safety guidance, check the EPA Household Hazardous Waste information.

When NOT to Use a Plunger (Very Important)

Plungers are great—but there are times when plunging can make things worse.

1) When you used chemical drain cleaner

If you poured a chemical cleaner into the drain, do not plunge.
Plunging can splash corrosive chemicals onto your skin or eyes.

If you already used chemicals and the clog remains, it’s safer to call a plumber.

2) When the toilet is overflowing fast

If water is rising quickly, stop plunging and:

turn off the water valve behind the toilet
remove the tank lid and lift the float to stop refilling
call for help if needed

3) When multiple drains are backing up

If your toilet clogs AND your tub backs up—or your sinks gurgle—you may have a main sewer line issue, not a simple clog.

This is a common sign of a bigger problem that needs professional tools.

4) When you suspect a solid object is stuck

If a child flushed:

a toy
wipes
feminine products
paper towels
anything plastic

Plunging may wedge it deeper.

According to the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, “flushable” wipes can still cause serious clogs in plumbing systems. Learn more here: NACWA Flushable Wipes Guidance

5) When the clog keeps returning

If you’re plunging the same toilet every week, something else is going on:

partial blockage deeper in the drain line
tree roots in the sewer line
pipe damage or sagging line
buildup that needs professional clearing

Signs You Should Call a Plumber in Mobile, AL

Sometimes the best “DIY” move is knowing when to stop.

Call Walley Plumbing Company if you notice:

🚨 Toilet won’t unclog after 2–3 plunging attempts
🚨 Water backs up into tubs or showers
🚨 Multiple drains clog at once
🚨 Sewage smell in your home
🚨 Toilet bubbles or gurgles when you run water
🚨 You suspect a sewer line clog

If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, we can help with professional solutions like drain clearing and inspection.

🔗 Learn more about us here: Walley Plumbing Company

Bonus Pro Tips for Preventing Future Clogs

A little prevention goes a long way—especially in busy households.

Toilet clog prevention tips:

Only flush toilet paper (no wipes, even “flushable” ones)
Use less paper per flush
Teach kids what not to flush
If you have older plumbing, consider upgrading fixtures

Sink clog prevention tips:

Use drain strainers to catch hair and food
Don’t pour grease down the kitchen sink
Run hot water after heavy sink use
Schedule occasional drain maintenance if needed

FAQ: Plungers and Clogged Toilets

How long should I plunge a toilet?

Start with 15–20 seconds, then check if the water drains. Repeat up to 2–3 rounds.

Should I push hard when plunging?

Use firm pressure, but don’t slam it. Controlled plunging works better and reduces splash.

What if plunging makes it worse?

Stop immediately. You may have:

a deeper clog
a solid object blockage
a sewer line issue

That’s when it’s time to call a professional.

Need Help With a Stubborn Clog in Mobile, AL?

Plungers are great for minor clogs—but if you’ve tried everything and the drain still won’t clear, don’t stress. Walley Plumbing Company is proud to serve Mobile, Alabama, with dependable plumbing solutions that fix the problem correctly the first time.

If you’re dealing with repeated clogs, slow drains, or possible sewer line issues, we’re ready to help.

🔗 Visit us online: Walley Plumbing Company