Make sure the plastic coating on the end of the snake is intact so it doesn’t scratch the porcelain. If it is not, wrap it in duct tape. If everything is properly inserted, you should not be able to see the cable
If it doesn’t turn, pull the snake back a little ways and quarter turn the handle counterclockwise and try again. Unclogging a toilet with a snake is as simple as turning the crank a few times.
Don’t be rough with the shaft of the snake or try to draw out the clog by force. Just keep winding and unwinding and let it wear down the clog on its own.
Pushing the clog further in may end up making the problem worse, as eventually it can get so deep that you can no longer reach it. [4] X Research source Always make sure to sanitize your snake after each use. This can be accomplished by rinsing the snake off outside with a garden hose. You can also leave the end of the snake in the toilet for a few flushes after you’ve added toilet bowl cleaner. [5] X Research source
If you’re using a towel, wash it immediately after you’re finished and wipe down the floor beneath with a disinfecting solution.
Debris that is snagged on the end of the snake will have to be removed by hand. Don’t forget to roll up your shirtsleeves as you work to get them out of the way.
A plastic grocery bag makes a perfect means of disposal. After you drop the offending clog inside, tie off the bag and chuck it in the trash.
Only use cleaners that are intended for toilets. Regular drain cleaners can eat through galvanized plumbing pipes and wreak havoc on septic systems. A homemade declogging solution made from vinegar and baking soda can also work wonders on clearing out your pipes after they’ve been snaked. Simply pour about a cup of baking soda into the bowl, add two cups of vinegar (gradually, so that the mixture doesn’t bubble over into the floor), wait ten minutes and flush. [10] X Research source
Toys are a leading culprit of clogs in households with small children. If you have kids, keep the door to your bathroom shut and make sure they know that it’s not a good place to play. Keep a small garbage can with a lid next to the toilet so you or guests can throw away non-flushables. If you’re not sure whether or not a certain item is safe to flush down the toilet, chances are it isn’t.
Consider flushing twice if you think a single flush won’t manage. Be conservative. There’s no need to use half a roll of paper every time you wipe. [12] X Research source If you often find yourself troubled with clogs, consider switching to single ply toilet paper. It may not be as comfortable or absorbing, but it breaks down much faster after it’s flushed. If there’s a lot of toilet paper, hold half of the toilet paper back with a plunger when you flush. Flush again once it is finished.
Look for bubbles in the water in the toilet bowl and keep an ear out for rattling in the pipes. These could also be signs of blockage. Snaking should be reserved for stubborn clogs. Plunging, cleaning and not putting anything in the toilet that doesn’t belong there should be your first defenses. If you’re careful, you’ll rarely find yourself in a situation that requires the use of an auger.
Cleaning your toilet’s water jets ensures that it’s flushing at full power, which will help knock out potential messes caught in the plumbing. [15] X Research source
