The Best Toilet Plungers To Make Clearing Stubborn Clogs A Breeze
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When a toilet clog strikes, you crave a quick and effective solution. That's why owning a reliable toilet plunger isn't debatable — it's a must-have. Yet, navigating the market can be overwhelming. Not all plungers can manage those stubborn clogs that you dread. Some might boast a sleek design but skimp on suction power. Others may be low-priced but have flimsy handles that snap under pressure.
When choosing the right toilet plunger, focus on a few critical features. First, pay attention to the suction cup. You want one that's both durable and flexible, able to adjust to various toilet bowl shapes without losing its grip. Second on the list is the handle — make sure it's robust and designed with ergonomics in mind. A well-designed handle makes the plunging action a lot less taxing on your arms. Finally, check that the plunger works well with your specific toilet type. If you're sporting a low-flow model, you'll need a plunger that's up to that particular challenge. Keep these features in your sights, and you'll select a tool that not only clears clogs but also makes the process as effortless as possible.
How we selected products
The plungers listed below are highly recommended for several reasons, and the first is customer feedback. The reviews of people who've used these tools offer golden insights into how well they really work. You don't want to find out your plunger is ineffective when a plumbing emergency arises. Next, we factored in press coverage. Reviews from reputable sources often go beyond surface-level testing, as they dig deep into whether the plunger's features live up to the hype. Remember, well-regarded media outlets often put these items through rigorous testing, offering insights that individual customers might miss. So, take that as another layer of vetting you can trust.
We also considered factors such as different aesthetics based on your bathroom's design and also needs based on the type of toilet you have. There are many different types of plungers, so giving you a wide variety of options was one of our priorities. Lastly, let's touch on your budget. Most people have one, but it shouldn't force you into settling for a subpar product. That's why we offered options that match different financial needs but still perform reliably. You should be able to unclog your toilet effectively, regardless of how much you're willing or able to spend.
Best overall: OXO's Good Grips Toilet Plunger with Holder
The OXO Good Grips Toilet Plunger with Holder is the reigning champion among toilet plungers, since it combines form and function. The sleek design comes with a compact canister that contains a ventilated drip tray, making this a hygienic choice. Another plus is its universal application, working effectively on all toilets including those with low-flow. The flat top handle makes it easy to hold and use as well. The only potential downside is that this plunger only comes in white, so if you want another color, you'll have to look elsewhere.
You can find OXO's Good Grips Toilet Plunger with Holder on Amazon for about $35.
Best budget: Kendik's Rubber Toilet Plunger with Wood Handle
Kendik's Rubber Toilet Plunger with Wood Handle is a budget-friendly product that does its job well, thanks to its high-quality rubber. You get a good seal and strong grip in the toilet bowl, making it easy to clear medium everyday clogs. However, it doesn't come with a holder, so you'll need to clean the plunger thoroughly before setting it back on your bathroom floor. Also keep in mind that you shouldn't press down too hard, as this could cause the rubber to flip in on itself, and you have to screw in the wooden handle before using.
The Rubber Toilet Plunger with Wood Handle by Kendik is available at Walmart for less than $4 when purchased online.
Best look: Blomus' Sono Plastic Plunger
While toilet plungers are primarily chosen because of their functionality, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. Blomus' Sono Plastic Plunger is one of the most aesthetic options on the market. Coming in eight color options, you can choose one that works best in your bathroom and leave it out all the time. The reviews also say that it works well and is both lightweight and sturdy.
Purchase Blomus' Sono Plastic Plunger from Wayfair for under $60.
Best heavy-duty: Mr.Siga's Toilet Plunger with Holder
Heavy-duty toilet plungers are best for stubborn clogs, and Mr.Siga's Toilet Plunger with Holder is the best of the best. Coming with an ergonomic handle, this option is easy to use and won't strain your arms. Further, it also has a holder with a ventilation system, so odors and bacteria won't get trapped inside. And, simply pulling upwards on the handle will release this plunger from its container. Coming in white, gray, or black, this option has a stylish appearance. Reviews claim that this plunger is well made, sturdy, and looks great.
You can buy Mr.Siga's Toilet Plunger with Holder for less than $30 on Amazon.
Best with tall canister: Blue Donuts' Metal Plunger
A tall canister could come in handy, as these provide a sleek look and are able to disguise your toilet plunger in plain sight. If you're looking for one of these options, check out Blue Donuts' Metal Plunger, which has ventilation holes at the top so that smells can't get trapped inside. This piece has a great look and works well, but keep in mind that it's more of a brassy or brown color instead of pure black.
Find Blue Donuts' Metal Plunger on Wayfair's website for about $30.
Best set with brush: Mr.Siga's Toilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo
If you're looking for convenience and a two-in-one product, check out Mr.Siga's Toilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo. Available in black, gray, or white, this set comes with a heavy-duty, ergonomic handle plunger and a nylon-bristle brush, which both sit inside the same sleek container. This design is both convenient and saves space, as everything you need to unclog and clean the toilet is arranged together. However, keep in mind that the plunger handle may be short, so you may have to bend over quite a bit when using it.
Buy Mr.Siga's Toilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo at Walmart for around $23 when purchased online.
Best accordion: JS Jackson Supplies' Professional Bellows Accordion Toilet Plunger
While most plungers have a suction cup design, there are other models available. Accordion types have lots of grooves and are made for elongated or oddly-shaped toilet bowls. The best of this category is sold from JS Jackson Supplies, and it's the Professional Bellows Accordion Toilet Plunger. This product claims to have concentrated power and be great at unblocking stubborn clogs. Further, the lips don't fold, meaning that you don't have to worry about splashing, and the handle can be removed for easy storage. Finally, it also comes in many colors, so you can choose the option that best matches your style. However, this option doesn't come with a holder.
For approximately $17, purchase JS Jackson Supplies' Professional Bellows Accordion Toilet Plunger on Amazon.
Best beehive: Korky's 96-4AM Beehive Max Toilet Plunger
Another unique type of toilet plunger is the beehive model, which is made for older flow toilets and elongated bowls. The Korky 96-4AM Beehive Max Toilet Plunger is the best of its kind. It can either be purchased with a holder or without, and both options have an adjustable handle that makes it easy to store underneath the vanity sink. This plunger claims to be great for both old and new high efficiency toilets and is heavy duty. Further, the durable rubber shouldn't splash toilet water back at you.
Buy Korky's 96-4AM Beehive Max Toilet Plunger on Amazon for about $24.