How to Unclog Your Toilet with a Homemade Toilet Snake

Unclogging Your Toilet with a Homemade Toilet Snake

Having a clogged toilet can be a frustrating experience. You may have tried to use a plunger without success. There are also chemical options but you may not have them on hand or have tried these and they are not working with your situation. While a plumbing snake from a home improvement store is going to be a more reliable bet, a homemade toilet snake can come in handy with items you may already have at home to dislodge a clogged toilet. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a homemade toilet snake using a coat hanger, paint rag, and electrical tape.

Gather the Necessary Materials

The first step in creating a homemade toilet snake is to gather the necessary materials. You will need:

• A wire coat hanger

• A paint rag or an old cloth

• Electrical tape

Make sure you have these items readily available before you begin the unclogging process.

Prepare the Coat Hanger

Start by straightening the wire coat hanger as much as possible. You can use pliers to help with this process. Ensure that the hanger is straight, except for one end of the coat hanger which you can bend and create a u-shaped type handle (please see the youtube video at the bottom in order to see the full method and shape of the handle I create).

Create the Snake Head

Next, you will create the snake head using the paint rag or old cloth. Take the cloth and wrap it tightly around one end of the coat hanger. Use the electrical tape to secure the cloth in place. Make sure it is tightly wrapped and firmly attached to the coat hanger. I recommend attaching the electrical tape high up onto the hanger in case the paint rag dislodges.

Shape the Snake

Once the snake head is secured, you can shape the rest of the coat hanger into a long, straight line. This will serve as the snake's body. Ensure that there are no sharp edges or protruding parts that could potentially damage your toilet bowl.

Using the Homemade Toilet Snake

Now that your homemade toilet snake is ready, it's time to put it to use. Follow these steps:

1. Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands.

2. Insert the snake head into the toilet bowl, aiming for the clogged area.

3. Gently push the snake into the clog, applying steady pressure.

4. Once you feel resistance, twist and turn the snake to break up the clog.

5. Continue pushing, twisting, and turning until the clog is dislodged.

6. Once the clog is cleared, flush the toilet to ensure proper drainage.

Additional Tips and Precautions

While using a homemade toilet snake can be an effective way to unclog your toilet, it's important to keep a few additional tips and precautions in mind:

• Be gentle: Avoid using excessive force when pushing the snake into the toilet. Applying too much pressure can potentially damage the toilet bowl.

• Use a flashlight: If the clog is not easily visible, use a flashlight to get a better view. This will help you navigate the snake more effectively.

• Dispose of the snake properly: Once you have successfully unclogged your toilet, make sure to clean and sanitize the homemade snake before storing it away. If the snake is heavily soiled, it is advisable to dispose of it and create a new one when needed.

• Consider preventive measures: To prevent future clogs, avoid flushing items that are not meant to be flushed, such as sanitary products, wipes, or excessive amounts of toilet paper. Regular maintenance and occasional use of commercial drain cleaners can also help keep your toilet free from clogs.

Conclusion

Unclogging a toilet can be a hassle, but with a homemade toilet snake made from a coat hanger, paint rag, and electrical tape, you can tackle the problem without relying on commercial products. Remember to exercise caution, be gentle with the snake, and take preventive measures to avoid future clogs. By following these steps and tips, you can successfully unclog your toilet and restore its proper functionality.