Plungers are something that you probably haven’t given much thought to but they can be very important if your plumbing becomes blocked. This is especially true if something essential is blocked, and your toilet is one of the most important of these.
A toilet plunger is designed specifically to keep your toilet flushing properly, so it is well worth adding one to your home’s tool collection. You will have plenty of options but it is important to choose one that will reliably perform its role.
To help you the right product, we have reviewed seven of the best toilet plungers you can buy today. We chose these plungers based on their type, material, size, and any accessories they feature.
- Five-year warranty
- Convenient storage
- Magnetic holder
- Graduated suction cup
- Aluminum handle
- Twelve-month warranty
- Rubber grip handle
- Extended cup for tight drains
- All-in-one maintenance solution
- Custom-fit caddy
- T-shaped handle
- Non-marking rubber
- Suitable for severe blockages
- Plastic is easy to sterilize
- Doesn't require much arm strength
- Flat handle for extra comfort
- Self-opening caddy
- Suitable for most toilets
- Easy to clean and sterilize
- Stable stand
- Replacement cups are available
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we understand the importance of a reliable toilet plunger. Our team’s hands-on experience and meticulous assessment allow us to rank and review each product based on critical factors such as effectiveness, durability, and ease of use. We delve deep into the design choices, measuring performance and comparing results against established benchmarks. Drawing from our professional expertise, we evaluate these plungers from a user’s perspective, describing the nuances that set each product apart. Our analysis is backed by evidence and data, ensuring that our recommendations are rooted in facts and practical findings. With this approach, we aim to help you make an informed decision when choosing the best toilet plunger for your needs.
The Best Toilet Plungers of 2023
You have plenty of options to choose from when looking for a plunger, which is why we have saved you some time by reviewing seven of the best toilet plungers that are currently available. We selected these plungers based on their material, type, size, and any special features they might have.
Simplehuman Toilet Plunger
Best for Durability
This Simplehuman toilet plunger is a great option for anyone who prefers sturdy, durable tools. It is also protected by a five-year warranty, a mark of the company’s confidence in its products.
The handle is made of stainless steel, which is known for being resistant to corrosion and for its overall strength. It is available in either white or black, so you can choose a finish that won’t stand out in your bathroom.
Your purchase also includes a container for the plunger, so you can store it without worrying about toilet water dripping onto your floor. It holds the plunger in place with a magnet so there is no risk of it falling out while you carry it.
What We Like
Convenient Storage
The included caddy means you can store your plunger without worrying about toilet water dripping onto the floor. As long as you turn the open end to face a wall, you won’t have to look at your plunger while using the bathroom.
Magnetic Collar for Portability
If you have multiple toilets that are prone to clogs, you will need to move your plunger between them. Some plunger caddies don’t hold the plunger in place, so you run the risk of dropping it while carrying it. Simplehuman has overcome this issue by adding a magnet to hold the plunger in place.
Two Colors
Simplehuman sells this plunger in two colors: white or black. The stainless steel handle has a grip at the end that matches the caddy, so it should blend into your bathroom.
Generous Guarantee
A long warranty is usually a reflection of a company’s belief in its products. Simplehuman has given this product a five-year guarantee, so you can buy it with confidence.
What We Don't Like
Cup Might Be Too Small
The narrow cup size is designed for modern toilets. If you have an older toilet with a wider drain, this Simplehuman plunger might be unsuitable.
Product Specs
| Type | Flange |
| Total Length | 23.1 inches |
| Cup Size | 7.1 x 7.9 inches |
| Accessories | Caddy |
| Materials | Stainless steel handle, cup material not described |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Neiko 60166A Toilet Plunger
Best for Multi-Toilet Homes
If you have different toilet models in your home, this toilet plunger might be suitable for all of them. The Neiko 60166A is a flange plunger with a twist — a graduated suction cup.
The cup diameter gradually shrinks from 6 to 4 inches in diameter. The sizes in between are 5 inches and 4.625 inches.
Although the exterior of the cup is ridged, the interior is smooth to prevent water from being trapped inside it.
What We Like
Graduated Suction Cup
If you don’t want to buy multiple plungers for the different toilet models in your home, the Neiko 60166A could be an all-in-one solution. Its varying cup sizes mean it should form a secure seal around the majority of toilet drains.
Aluminum Handle
The aluminum handle has two advantages. It is lightweight, making it easy to use, but it is also more resistant to rust than iron or steel (1). This toughness makes it ideal for humid bathrooms.
User Friendly
In addition to being lightweight, this plunger is designed to be as easy to use as possible. The rubber cup is pliable to ensure it creates an airtight seal over your toilet’s drain. This means you won’t need to hold it at a specific angle to use it effectively.
What We Don't Like
No Handle Grips
Some users report that the smooth handle doesn’t provide a strong enough grip when dealing with a stubborn blockage. If you are concerned about your grip strength, there are other plungers on our list that feature rubber grips.
Product Specs
| Type | Flange |
| Total Length | 23.5 inches |
| Cup Size | Graduated suction cup: 6 inches, 5 inches, 4.625 inches, 4 inches |
| Accessories | Caddy |
| Materials | Aluminum handle, rubber cup |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Mr. Clean 440436 Turbo Plunger and Brush
Best Package Deal
Mr. Clean is one of the most famous names in bathroom cleaning and this combination set is convenient and high-quality. It contains both a brush and plunger, in a matching blue and white finish that suits the majority of bright bathrooms.
Both items come housed in a single caddy, so they will occupy less space than a separate toilet brush and plunger. The plunger features an extended cup that makes it ideal for smaller and narrower toilet drains.
Each tool has a rubber grip on its handle, making it easier to brush and plunge with confidence. There is also a non-slip base on the caddy itself, so it won’t slide across your bathroom floor when you take the tools from it.
What We Like
Rubber Grip Handle
When plunging or brushing your toilet, it is important to maintain a strong grip on the tool. These Mr. Clean tools have thick rubber grips on their handles to ensure you can hold them securely with less effort.
Extended Cup for Precision
The flange plunger has an extended cup to reach further reach or provide a tighter seal around your toilet drain. As the cup is relatively small at 4.75 inches, it is a good option for smaller or narrower drains.
Useful Extras
This kit is an all-in-one solution for routine toilet maintenance. The stiff-bristle brush will help you keep your toilet clean and the plunger will deal with clogs. The caddy has a non-slip base, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally dragging it across your bathroom floor when you remove a tool.
Compact Storage
The caddy is designed to occupy as little space as possible, which is important as it holds two tools. As both the brush and plunger have quite short handles, this combination set won’t feel intrusive in your bathroom.
What We Don't Like
Short Handle
The handle is only about a foot long from the cup to the end, which is great for storage but means you might have to get closer to your toilet than you would like.
Product Specs
| Type | Flange |
| Total Length | 19 inches |
| Cup Size | 7 x 4.75 inches |
| Accessories | Caddy and toilet brush |
| Materials | Rubber grip handle, rubber cup |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Korky 95-4A Beehive Plunger
Best Toilet Plunger for Low-Flow Toilets
Low-flow toilets reduce water waste by using as little as 1.28 gallons per flush. This is much less than older toilets that used as much as 6 gallons each time they were flushed (2).
If you have recently replaced an old toilet, you may find that your current plunger no longer fits. The reduced flow could also mean you have to deal with clogs more frequently.
The Korky 95-4A is designed to work on modern high-efficiency toilets, including products from leading brands such as Kohler and American Standard. Korky states that this toilet plunger can also remove clogs in old toilets.
What We Like
Custom-Fit Caddy
This plunger’s unique shape could make it difficult to find a suitable caddy. Thankfully, the Korky 95-4A includes a container designed specifically for the beehive cup. Its flat-white color should complement most bathroom designs.
T-Shaped Handle
The T-shaped handle helps you hold the plunger more securely when dealing with stubborn clogs. The handle is also 15 inches long so you won’t need to be too close to the bowl.
Non-Marking Rubber
Some low-quality rubber plungers can leave marks on the surface of your toilet bowl. This Korky plunger has a cup made of non-marking rubber so you don’t need to worry about it staining your toilet.
Flexible Beehive Cup
Accordion-shaped plungers can be difficult to use if they are too stiff. This plunger’s beehive cup is flexible and reviewers praise how easy it is to use. Its design means it can also deal with larger, more severe blockages, which can affect a low-flow toilet.
What We Don't Like
Won’t Fit Every Toilet Bowl
Despite Korky’s claim that this model is a universal toilet plunger, some customers have reported that it wouldn’t seal around their toilet drains.
Product Specs
| Type | Accordion |
| Total Length | 15 inches — handle size only |
| Cup Size | 6 inches |
| Accessories | Caddy |
| Materials | Unspecified plastic handle, rubber cup |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Bellows Accordion Plunger
Best Heavy-Duty Plunger
This accordion plunger from Jackson Supplies and Hardware is ideal for anyone who needs to deal with more severe toilet clogs. The total height of the bellows-shaped cup is 7 inches, with seven separate ridges that trap air and force it into the depths of your pipes.
As the entire plunger is made of hard plastic, you can clean it thoroughly without worrying about damaging it. The handle and bellows can also be separated for easier cleaning.
With a height of 18 inches from tip to rim, this model is among the shortest toilet plungers on our list. If you have a smaller bathroom with limited storage space, this is a great compact option.
What We Like
Works on Formidable Blockages
This toilet plunger is made to combat serious blockages. The bellows lead to a cup-end that is less than 2.5 inches in diameter. The narrow end can fit into larger drains or seal around smaller ones for focused clog removal.
Simple to Sterilize
The entire toilet plunger is made of hard plastic, so it should cope with standard cleaning products and techniques. It can also be disassembled as the handle and bellows are separate pieces, so you can soak the two parts however you see fit.
User Friendly
Stubborn blockages can require a lot of strength to dislodge with most plungers. Despite accordion plungers often requiring strength to use, this model is praised by customers for being user-friendly. The handle also has a texture that encourages a secure grip.
Easy to Store
This plunger’s diminutive height means you should be able to tuck it behind your toilet, completely hiding it from view. For even easier storage, you can remove the handle from the cup.
What We Don't Like
Watch Your Placement
As this plunger is rigid and lacks flexibility, you need to angle it more precisely during use. If you start plunging and it isn’t sealed over your drain, you could make a mess and get splashed by toilet water.
No Caddy
This toilet plunger is sold without a caddy for storage. This means you will need to find and purchase your own caddy if you want to protect your bathroom floor from toilet water.
Product Specs
| Type | Accordion |
| Total Length | 18 inches |
| Cup Size | 7 x 2.375 inches |
| Accessories | None |
| Materials | Non-specified plastic |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Oxo Good Grips Toilet Plunger with Holder
Best Toilet Plunger for Squeamish Users
If you want to keep your plunger near your toilet but are worried about how it will look, it is important to choose a model that can be hidden or that is visually appealing. This OXO Good Grips plunger has a sleek, minimalist design that means it won’t be an eyesore in an otherwise attractive bathroom.
Unlike most models, the caddy doesn’t leave the end of the plunger exposed so you won’t be able to see the cup while it is stored. It opens automatically when you pull the plunger out and closes the same way when you place it back in.
On a practical level, the plunger is also very effective. OXO claims it will work with the majority of modern toilets, and you are also protected by a customer satisfaction guarantee in case you encounter any issues.
What We Like
Flat Tip
The handle has a flat tip that encourages a better grip during use. This will also allow you to apply extra pressure while plunging without an uncomfortably pointed tip digging into your palm.
Ingenious Caddy
This model’s standout feature is its caddy, which hides the plunger’s cup from view and keeps it hygienic. It has ventilation slots, which allow water to evaporate instead of forming an unhygienic puddle. You will still need to clean it but less frequently than most caddies.
Works on Most Toilet Types
OXO states that this toilet plunger is suitable for most toilet types, including low-flow commodes. Unless you have an unusual toilet type or one that is designed for foreign markets, this plunger should work effectively.
Satisfaction Guarantee
OXO offers a customer satisfaction guarantee. If you encounter any issues with your plunger, you can contact the manufacturer for a return, refund, or replacement.
What We Don't Like
Durability Issues
Some buyers reported problems with their plunger shortly after purchasing it. These included broken handles or rubber cups that collapsed and would no longer form a seal. If you are concerned about durability, there are tougher plunger models elsewhere on this list.
Product Specs
| Type | Flange |
| Total Length | 24 inches |
| Cup Size | 6 x 6 inches |
| Accessories | Canister |
| Materials | Plastic handle, rubber cup |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
ToiletTree Stainless Steel Plunger
Nicest Design
If you have a stylish modern bathroom with lots of chrome or stainless steel, a white plastic toilet plunger will probably stick out like a sore thumb. That’s why this ToiletTree model has been designed with aesthetics in mind.
The plunger and its caddy both have an appealing stainless steel finish that will complement any metallic fittings in your bathroom. Its low-key design means it won’t look out of place in traditional bathrooms either.
If you want to ensure the plunger matches your toilet brush, consider the ToiletTree Deluxe Combo which holds both tools in a single caddy.
What We Like
Simple Sanitizing
Stainless steel is visually appealing but it also has more practical benefits. It is rust-resistant and easy to sterilize as it can withstand high temperatures. If you often use boiling water or heavy-duty cleaning products to sanitize your bathroom, this will be very helpful.
Stable Stand
A sleek plunger isn’t much good if its caddy tips over and spills dirty water onto your bathroom floor. The ToiletTree stand is built with stability in mind and it shouldn’t slip or tip when you remove or replace the plunger.
Replacement Cups
If your plunger cup eventually wears out, you won’t have to buy an entirely new unit as ToiletTree sells replacement cups for its products. This means you will be able to use the handle and caddy for many years after the initial cup wears out.
What We Don't Like
May Rust in Humid Bathrooms
Despite being resistant to rust, some users eventually notice it on the handle or caddy of their ToiletTree plunger. If your bathroom is poorly ventilated or damp, it might be better to consider an all-plastic plunger.
Plunger Cup Can Pop Out
When dealing with particularly stubborn blockages, this plunger’s cup could reverse itself. It is designed for removing more everyday clogs, so you should choose a more heavy-duty plunger if you have severe issues with your toilet.
Product Specs
| Type | Flange |
| Total Length | 18.5 inches |
| Cup Size | 6.5 x inches |
| Accessories | Caddy and toilet brush |
| Materials | Stainless steel handle, rubber cup |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Type | Length | Cup Size | Accessories | Materials |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simplehuman Toilet Plunger | Durability | Flange | 23.1″ | 7.1 x 7.9″ | Caddy | Stainless steel handle, cup material not advised |
| Neiko 60166A Toilet Plunger | Multi-Toilet Homes | Flange | 23.5″ | 6″, 5″, 4.625″, 4″ | Caddy | Aluminum handle, rubber cup |
| Mr. Clean Turbo Plunger & Brush | Package Deal | Flange | 19″ | 7 x 4.75″ | Caddy & toilet brush | Rubber grip handle, rubber cup |
| Korky 95-4A Beehive Plunger | Low-Flow Toilets | Accordion | 15″ — handle size only | 6″ | Caddy | Plastic handle, rubber cup |
| Bellows Accordion Plunger | Heavy-Duty | Accordion | 18″ | 7 x 2.375″ | None | Plastic |
| Oxo Good Grips Plunger | Squeamish Users | Flange | 24″ | 6 x 6″ | Canister | Plastic handle, rubber cup |
| ToiletTree Stainless Steel Plunger | Nicest Design | Flange | 18.5″ | 6.5 x” | Caddy & toilet brush | Stainless steel handle, rubber cup |
Types of Toilet Plungers
There are two main types of toilet plungers, depending on the shape of the cup. These two types are accordion or flange units.
Accordion Plunger
Accordion plungers have a distinctive cup shape that resembles the musical instrument that gives them their name. The ridges of the accordion contain air, which is then pushed into your toilet by way of a smaller cup at the base.
Accordion plungers are very effective but can be difficult to use. The plastic is typically hard, which means you need to apply more pressure to achieve the desired effect.
Pros
- Ridges trap air for extra pressure
- Suitable for toilets prone to stubborn blockages
- Works with deeper toilet bowls
Cons
- Might require too much strength for some people to use
Flange Plunger
Flange plungers are probably what you typically imagine when you picture a toilet plunger. They have a familiar wide, rounded cup that is usually made of flexible rubber.
What sets them apart is a small flap that enables the cup to form an airtight seal on curves, such as those of an average toilet bowl.
Pros
- Should be suitable for most toilet bowls
- Easier to use than accordion plungers
- The most common type of plunger
Cons
- Less powerful plunging effect than accordion models
How to Choose a Toilet Plunger
While shopping for a suitable plunger for your toilet, keep the following aspects in mind:
- Handle dimensions: How long your plunger’s handle should be is a matter of personal preference. You might want to stay as far from the action as possible, but a shorter handle will provide easier storage.
- Handle material: Traditional wooden handles may look nice, but they are susceptible to moisture and can shrink, swell, or otherwise become deformed when wet. If your bathroom tends to be humid, you should consider a water-resistant material such as plastic. A textured grip or material will make your hands less likely to slip, which is especially important when using a plunger.
- Cup material: Plungers have to perform an intense and difficult role. Most cups are made of rubber, which is both durable and flexible. If the cup is too stiff or overly flexible, it won’t be able to form the airtight seal that is essential for plunging effectively.
- Cup size: Not all toilets are identical in shape and style. The shape and size of your bowl will determine how large your plunger cup should be. If it is too small and can’t form a seal around the base of the bowl, it will essentially be useless.
- Accessories: Your plunger might include some useful extras such as a built-in hook to hang it up or a case you can store it in while it is still wet. Some models are paired with accessories such as toilet brushes for a two-in-one deal.
FAQs
How Does a Toilet Plunger Work?
A toilet plunger applies pressure to a pipe blockage by forcing air and water down the drain. When you press your plunger against the toilet, it forms a seal and traps air inside the cup.
When you then push the plunger down, the air held in the cup is combined with the water in your toilet. The combined pressure created by the air and water either breaks the blockage apart or dislodges it so it can continue moving through your drainage system (3).
The vast majority of toilet blockages can be fixed with a plunger. However, if your blockage won’t move, you might need to try a different solution.
How to Use a Toilet Plunger Correctly
If you have never used a toilet plunger before, there is nothing to worry about. You should be able to remove your blockage easily by following these steps:
- Check water level: Make sure the base of your toilet plunger will be submerged in water when you place it in the toilet. If necessary, add more water with a cup or bucket.
- Position plunger: Place the plunger into the bowl, forming a seal over the drain at the bottom.
- Start pumping: Move the handle up and down firmly. Try to keep the plunger at the same angle so the cup stays in place as you work. Don’t move too vigorously or you will end up splashing water over yourself.
- Keep going: You will know your plunging has worked when the water drains out of the bowl. You can also try flushing the toilet to check but be careful not to flood your bathroom.
Plunge Carefully
How to Keep a Toilet Plunger Sanitary
Hold the plunger’s cup in your toilet bowl and spray it liberally with your cleaning solution of choice.
Feel free to scrub the cup if you want to be meticulous. Otherwise, you can flush your toilet to rinse it and you’re done. Try to do this after every use and store your plunger somewhere it won’t drip water onto the floor.
Should You Have a Plunger In Every Bathroom?
Having a plunger in every bathroom can help resolve minor toilet clogs without waiting for a professional plumber.
However, keeping a plunger in each bathroom can also cause mold growth due to excess moisture and potentially unsafe situations if guests or small children become curious about the plumbing tools.
What Toilet Plungers Do Plumbers Use?
There are various plungers on the market, but most plumbers prefer using Taze plungers. These plungers are made from a durable plastic that can withstand even the toughest clogs, while their welded metal handles provide maximum leverage during use.
Taze plungers have a wider suction cup head than others, allowing them to achieve optimal seal strength when clearing clogged drains. Overall, Taze plungers offer superior performance, making them the go-to choice for professional plumbers everywhere.
What Is the Difference Between a Toilet Plunger and a Sink Plunger?
While most toilet plungers have a narrow tip and stiff cup shape, sink plungers typically feature a wider rubber cup with an open end for greater versatility around corners and complex drain shapes.
Additionally, toilet plunger handles are often made of wood or hard plastic. In contrast, sink plunger handles are often made of flexible latex material to better conform to the contours of the cleaned fixture.
Overall, the main difference between these two tools is their intended use, with toilet plungers generally used for toilets and sink plungers used for sinks and other drains.
Can You Use a Sink Plunger to Unclog a Toilet?
Yes, it is possible to use a sink plunger for unclogging a toilet. However, there are several important caveats to keep in mind when attempting this type of plumbing repair.
To begin with, the toilet plunger must be properly sized for the toilet bowl. If it is too large, you will not achieve a tight seal against the drain, which will result in poor toilet clogging performance.
In addition, you should also make sure that the sink plunger has an outer flange designed specifically for toilets.
This accentuates suction and helps you to better manipulate the fluid and gunk in the toilet drain. Considering these considerations, using a sink plunger for a toilet can effectively solve your bathroom plumbing woes.
How Do You Unclog a Toilet When a Plunger Doesn’t Work?
One effective method is pouring hot water into the bowl and dish soap or dishwashing detergent. This will help break up any remaining clogs and loosen any blockages that might be present.
You can even use a wire hanger to work at the clog from the drain opening at the bottom of the toilet.
Another option is to create a baking soda mixture by mixing 2 cups of soda with just enough hot water to make a paste. Then use a cup or spoon to apply the mixture directly onto the clog, letting it sit for several minutes before flushing out all the water.
What Is the Best Toilet Plunger to Use?
The Simplehuman Plunger and Toilet Brush is one of the best toilet plungers you can have for your home.
