Unclog a Toilet the Right Way With a Flange Plunger

That red cup-shaped plunger most people own is made for sinks. Toilets need a flange plunger — the kind with a fold-out cone on the end — because it seals the curved drain properly.

How to do it

1. Make sure there's enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger head. Add some if needed.
2. Seat the flange into the drain opening for a tight seal.
3. Push down gently first to clear the air, then plunge hard up and down 10 to 15 times, keeping the seal.
4. Pull away and see if the water drains. Repeat once if it does.

Flush only after the water level drops — flushing a full clogged bowl is how floors get wet. Never use chemical drain cleaner in a toilet.