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15 Best Toilet Plungers in 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]

15 Best Toilet Plungers in 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]

It's always reassuring to have a plunger available in case your toilet gets clogged. Choosing a plunger that can eliminate blockages with ease can save you money by allowing you to clear the pipes yourself instead of calling a plumber. However, with companies like Simplehuman, Korky, and NEIKO selling different models, it's not hard to see why many people have trouble deciding which one to purchase.

We've compared 15 of the bestselling toilet plungers available online and put them to the test to recommend the best one for you.


We tested each product using the following five parameters:

  • How well it clears clogs
  • How easy it is to plunge with
  • Ergonomics and general usability
  • If it's likely to cause splashing
  • If it has a sanitary design

Which product ended up being the best of the best? We'll also tell you how to pick the best toilet plunger on your own in our buying guide, so read on for our tips.

Last updated 09/11/2023
Jin Nishikawa
Guide
Head of Everyday Essentials at mybest
Jin Nishikawa

Jin is our go-to expert for all things related to daily essentials, such as shower heads, ironing boards, toilet brushes, and more at mybest. With over 350 items personally tested and compared, Jin's primary objective is to provide solutions to user questions and concerns. His motto is "Make daily life as convenient as possible", and aims to help people choose the best items for themselves. Aside from being a dedicated professional, Jin also enjoys collecting daily essentials. Through repeated successes and failures, Jin has discovered what is truly useful and strives to share his findings with others.

Jin Nishikawa's Profile
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How We Tested the Products

Scroll to testing method
We gathered the 15 bestselling Toilet Plungers and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Clog-Clearing

    Test① Clog-Clearing

    To start, we tested the most important property of a plunger: how well it can unclog the toilet. We used each plunger under the following conditions. We attached a drainpipe and clear PVC pipe to a standard toilet bowl. We then inserted a hard wad of Kirkland two-ply toilet paper into the PVC pipe, poured water into the toilet bowl, and created a blockage. We used each plunger under these same conditions and checked how many plunges were required to remove the clog.

  2. Ease of Plunging

    Test② Ease of Plunging

    Next, we tested how easy it was to use the plungers. We evaluated the following factors:Amount of strength need for each pushWhether the shape of the handle facilitates easy plunging

  3. Ergonomics and Usage

    Test③ Ergonomics and Usage

    Here, we evaluated how easy the product is to handle. We evaluated these points while keeping in mind plunging, carrying it, and putting it away. Comfort of the handleThe plunger's weight

  4. Splashing

    Test④ Splashing

    When unclogging a toilet, we all worry about how dirty it makes the floor. In this test, we used the plunger and evaluated how well it prevented splashing, with less splashing leading to a higher rating.

  5. Sanitary Design

    Test⑤ Sanitary Design

    Finally, we also looked at how sanitary the design of the product is. The points of evaluation are listed below.Handle materialWhether it comes with a caddyWhether it comes with a drip tray

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility

Table of Contents

A Top-Class Plunger Can Clear Away Clogs in an Instant!

A Top-Class Plunger Can Clear Away Clogs in an Instant!

There's nothing more inconvenient than using a plunger that can't get the job done or takes a lot of effort. Here at mybest, we compared different plungers based on how many plunges it took to clear away a clog caused by a large amount of toilet paper.


The products we've ranked lowest failed to remove the blockage even after 15 plunges, while our top-ranked products did it in less than five. This means they require only one-third of the amount of work. Additionally, top-ranked plungers tend to fit perfectly in the toilet bowl, allowing no air to escape and reducing splashing. And there are also other factors to consider, such as the shape of the handle and whether or not it comes with a drip tray, so let's look at how to choose the right plunger!

How to Choose a Toilet Plunger - Buying Guide

Here are some points to keep in mind when choosing the best toilet plunger.

① There Are 4 Types of Plungers, and Beehive Ones Are Most Effective

There Are 4 Types of Plungers, and Beehive Ones Are Most Effective

Plungers can be divided into beehive, flange, sink, and accordion types. Among those, we strongly recommend the beehive type, which we found able to clear a blockage in two plunges. We will give you more details on that in a minute.

First, Avoid the 2 Types That Don't Work Well on Toilets

First, Avoid the 2 Types That Don't Work Well on Toilets

Choosing from four types is a hassle, so the first step is to narrow down the number of options and pick from the two best types. Sink-type plungers took an average of 14 plunges to clear the clog, making it a labor-intensive job that uses a lot of strength. These plungers are designed to easily create an airtight seal on flat areas, such as bathtub and sink drains. However, this makes it difficult to establish an effective seal in toilet bowls, which are irregularly shaped.


Accordion type plungers do not use a vacuum to remove the blockage, but rather force out water accumulated in the bellows. However, all of the accordion plungers we tested in this experiment failed to clear the blockage. On top of that, many of these products are made of plastic, so pushing too hard runs the risk of distorting the joint between the shaft and the cup, making it stressful to use.

Jin Nishikawa
Head of Everyday Essentials at mybestJin Nishikawa

Some sink plungers have wooden handles instead of plastic or metal. But wood absorbs bacteria and is prone to mold.


Since the area around toilets is often damp, you should avoid wooden handles.

Flange Plungers Did the Job in About 10 Plunges, Making Them a Decent Option

Flange Plungers Did the Job in About 10 Plunges, Making Them a Decent Option

Flange plungers are the most common type and can be found at just about any hardware store. The benefit of these plungers is that the section that goes into the pipe is small, allowing it to fit snugly. The Clorox toilet plunger we tested unclogged the drain in four plunges, making it a product that can be used without worry.


Furthermore, the range of flanged plungers is incredible, and there are a large number of products with various cup designs. In particular, the NEIKO toilet plunger has a unique stepped cup that fits securely in different toilet openings, allowing you to clear a blockage with minimal effort.


On the other hand, there is a wide discrepancy between products, as we found that some flange plungers failed to establish a good seal and were unable to clear the blockage even after 15 plunges. Be sure to check our rankings so you can purchase a plunger that can effectively remove blockages.

Jin Nishikawa
Head of Everyday Essentials at mybestJin Nishikawa

By folding the flange back up into the cup, you can convert a flange type plunger into a sink type. This is a big plus allowing you to tackle everything from clogged toilets to clogged drains.

Beehive Plungers Can Unclog a Toilet in Just 2 Plunges and Are Our Top Recommendation!

Beehive Plungers Can Unclog a Toilet in Just 2 Plunges and Are Our Top Recommendation!

The biggest reason we recommend beehive plungers is their high plunging power. While some high-quality flange plungers managed to move the toilet paper after only a few pushes, the beehive plunger was one step away from clearing the blockage after just one push. We were surprised at how easy the job is with one of these plungers, as it only took two plunges to completely clear the blockage.


You could say that the ease of unclogging is the most important factor in choosing a plunger, and the beehive is the best in that sense. If you're having trouble deciding which type to buy, this is the way to go.

Jin Nishikawa
Head of Everyday Essentials at mybestJin Nishikawa

I tested every plunger on the same toilet. If one plunger didn't clear the clog, I still had to somehow deal with it to continue testing. However, the beehive type solved all my problems. That's how effective the beehive type is. I could finish the testing without having the spend any extra time, thanks to my trusty companion.

The Korky BEEHIVE Max Is One-Of-A-Kind, for Effortless Plunging

The Korky BEEHIVE Max Is One-Of-A-Kind, for Effortless Plunging

Actually, we found only one option to choose from when it comes to beehive plungers: the Korky BEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger. It earned the top stop as the best product in our ranking. In our tests, getting a good seal on the drain with the other plungers was a bit challenging and they took a little getting used to, making them more stressful to use. However, with Korky's large cup design, it was very easy to establish a seal.


While many other products have straight handles made of wood that are slippery and hard to hold, the Korky has a T-shaped handle that is easy to grip and facilitates the effective transfer of power to the cup. This makes it a perfect product for those who are not confident in their physical strength. Not only that, but because you don't need to apply a lot of force, it doesn't cause much splashing, keeping the area around the toilet clean.

Jin Nishikawa
Head of Everyday Essentials at mybestJin Nishikawa

Korky's BEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger comes in two versions. The 96-4AM has a flexible handle and the 99-4A has a single handle. We recommend the 96-4AM. A shorter handle means you can easily store the plunger under your bathroom sink.


Also, the 96-4AM has a slightly thinner handle, so even those with small hands can hold it with no problems.

② If You're Concerned About Hygiene and Design, Look For One That Comes With a Caddy

We thoroughly tested the plungers that include caddies, and our favorites were self-opening and self-closing plunger caddies.

A Caddy Keeps Your Floor Dry and Clean

A Caddy Keeps Your Floor Dry and Clean

It is very easy for germs to accumulate on plungers. If you place your plunger directly on the floor, even after washing the cup, the water dripping off the cup will transfer bacteria to the floor, which is unsanitary. Choosing a plunger with a caddy will allow you to store it in a more sanitary manner.


Additionally, it will allow you to hide the head of the plunger, detracting less from your bathroom decor. These days, there are stylish caddies that make the plunger unnoticeable at a glance. If you're looking for a complementary option, we recommend choosing a caddy that goes well with the color of your walls and other items in your bathroom.

Caddies That Open and Close Hands-Free Are the Best Type

Caddies That Open and Close Hands-Free Are the Best Type

Caddies can be largely divided into three types: self-opening and closing, magnetic, and open, often with an attached toilet brush. All of these are sanitary and allow the plunger to be stored without getting the floor wet, but we discovered that there were differences in the cleanliness of the design and ease of storage.


With magnetic types, the magnet on the caddy attaches to a stainless steel plunger handle, allowing the plunger and caddy to be picked up and moved together. This is convenient when moving them to clean the bathroom floor, but compared to other caddies in which you simply place the plunger inside, attaching the magnet is a little bit tricky.


Tray-type caddies and those with attached toilet brushes allow you to simply place the plunger on top. On the other hand, there is nothing surrounding the cup, so it can be seen easily. This is not a good option if you want your bathroom to look sharp. Thus, we recommend the hands-free opening and closing type. We will explain why below.

Jin Nishikawa
Head of Everyday Essentials at mybestJin Nishikawa

Our top pick, the Korky BEEHIVE 96-4AM, does not come with a caddy. If you don't want to put it directly on the floor you'll need to purchase the "Hideaway" set that comes with a holder. This allows you to store your plunger hygienically without compromising on effectiveness.

Self-Opening Caddies Keep Your Hands and Your Bathroom Clean With Ease

Self-Opening Caddies Keep Your Hands and Your Bathroom Clean With Ease

The main reason we recommend a self-opening caddy is due to hygiene. In particular, we were impressed that many have a built-in drip tray equipped with a ventilation hole that facilitates good airflow. This allows the plunger to dry quickly, inhibiting the ability of bacteria to multiply.


Without a drip tray, what do you do with your plunger after it's been used and rinsed off? You could dry it in the sun, or wrap it in a plastic bag to prevent it from dripping onto the floor. But if you want to avoid these hassles after using your plunger, make sure to look for a caddy with a drip tray.


And, it goes without saying, this type of caddy opens automatically when you lift the plunger and closes automatically after placing it back in, making it extremely easy to use.

Jin Nishikawa
Head of Everyday Essentials at mybestJin Nishikawa

Check our ranking below to see which plungers come with a caddy.

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15 Best Toilet Plungers Ranking

Here are the best tried and true toilet plungers. We ranked them after weighing each of our testing criteria.
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For a stylish or discreet design
For those concerned about hygiene
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Breakdown of Product-testing CriteriaHow was each criteria weighted?
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Weight
Lightweight
Handle Material
Wood
Stainless steel
Plastic
Cup material
Synthetic rubber
Natural rubber
Type
Flange
Beehive
Accordian
Sink plunger
Antimicrobial treatment
Stain-resistant
Drip tray
With toilet brush
Features
Stylish
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Products
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Total score
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Key features
Ranking spec
Details
Clog-clearing ability
Ease of pushing
Ease of grasping
Less splashing
Sanitary
Entire length
Handle Width
Cup width
Weight
Handle Material
Cup material
Type
Antimicrobial treatment
Stain-resistant
Drip tray
With toilet brush
Features
1

Korky

BEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger

Korky BEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger 1枚目
4.30

mybest's Top Choice! Fast and Effective Toilet Plunger That's Easy to Use

4.50
4.50
3.40
4.50
3.60

22 in.

3.5 in.

6 in.

22.22 oz.

Plastic

Synthetic rubber

Beehive

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Collapsible handle

2

Clorox

Toilet Plunger

Clorox Toilet Plunger 1枚目
4.26

Effective on Clogs, and We Especially Love the Caddy

4.30
4.32
3.50
4.20
4.50

19.5 in.

1.7 in.

6 in

13.4 oz.

Plastic

Synthetic rubber

Flange

N/A

N/A

Discreet,Stylish

3

NEIKO

60166A Toilet Plunger

NEIKO	 60166A Toilet Plunger 1枚目
4.04

Any Toilet, Any Shape, No Splashing

4.20
3.96
3.75
4.50
3.60

23.5 in.

1 in.

6 in.

13.75 oz.

Aluminum

Synthetic rubber

Stepped flange

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Hanging hook,Stylish

4

Yanxus

Toilet Plunger With Caddy

Yanxus Toilet Plunger With Caddy 1枚目
3.86

Takes a Lot of Plunges to Clear Clogs, but the Caddy Has Good Airflow

3.68
3.99
3.75
4.20
4.50

19.5 in.

1.7 in.

5.5 in.

17.63 oz.

Plastic

Synthetic rubber

Flange

N/A

N/A

N/A

Discreet,Stylish

5

Mainstays

3-piece Plastic Toilet Set

Mainstays 3-piece Plastic Toilet Set 1枚目
3.82

A Plunger and Brush Set That Worked After About 8 Plunges

3.90
3.81
3.60
3.20
4.20

19.5 in.

1.1 in.

6 in.

14.46 oz.

Plastic

Synthetic rubber

Flange

N/A

N/A

N/A

6

OXO

Good Grips Toilet Plunger With Holder

OXO Good Grips Toilet Plunger With Holder 1枚目
3.73

The Caddy Is Hygienic, but It Splashes a Lot of Water

3.68
3.78
3.75
3.20
4.50

22.8 in.

1.7 in.

5.5 in.

18.34 oz.

Plastic

Synthetic rubber

Flange

N/A

N/A

N/A

Discreet,Stylish

7

simplehuman

Toilet Plunger and Caddy

simplehuman Toilet Plunger and Caddy  1枚目
3.70

Sleek Steel Finish, but the Small Cup Makes Getting a Good Seal Tough

3.60
3.87
3.50
3.40
4.20

23 in.

2.1 in.

5.5 in.

23.28 oz.

Stainless steel

Synthetic rubber

Flange

N/A

N/A

N/A

Discreet,Stylish

8

Rocky Mountain Goods

Drain Plunger

Rocky Mountain Goods Drain Plunger 1枚目
3.52

Lightweight and Easy to Move, but Gets Your Hands Dirty

3.75
3.48
3.75
4.20
3.00

11 in.

0.9 in.

4 in.

4.93 oz.

Wood

Synthetic rubber

Sink plunger

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

9

Kendik

Rubber Toilet Plunger

Kendik Rubber Toilet Plunger 1枚目
3.44

Hard to Fit to the Toilet Bowl, and Watch Out for Splinters

3.68
3.34
3.30
4.50
3.00

21.5 in.

0.9 in.

6 in.

14.46 oz.

Wood

Recycled rubber

Flange

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

10

Luigi's

Toilet Plunger with Caddy

Luigi's Toilet Plunger with Caddy 1枚目
3.35

Not Very Effective and Weak Construction

3.20
3.46
3.60
3.40
4.20

22.5 in.

1.8 in.

3.5 in.

8.46 oz.

Plastic

Plastic

Accordian

N/A

N/A

N/A

Stylish

Product details
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No.1
Top Choice Toilet Plungers
No.1 in Clog-clearing ability
No.1 in Ease of pushing
No.1 in Less splashing

KorkyBEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger96-4AM

Overall rating

4.30

  • Clog-clearing ability
    4.50
  • Ease of pushing
    4.50
  • Ease of grasping
    3.40
  • Less splashing
    4.50
  • Sanitary
    3.60
BEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger Image 1
Lowest price
$15.62
TypeBeehive
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
22 in.
Cup width
6 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

mybest's Top Choice! Fast and Effective Toilet Plunger That's Easy to Use

The Korky BEEHIVE Max fits both old low-flow toilets and new toilets with oblong openings and sports a unique beehive-shaped cup that makes unclogging a breeze. In testing, we were able to clear the clog with just two plunges. The head is quite large and capable of storing a considerable amount of water, allowing it to force a high quantity of water into the pipe with each push and earning it a high rating.


The rubber of the beehive-shaped head is designed with a thick upper part and a thin, flexible bottom part that allows it to easily create an airtight seal. In addition, the hard upper part prevents it from warping when pushed. We felt that the power applied transferred completely to the head. You don't need to use much force, so it doesn't cause water to splash out of the bowl.


Regarding the handle, we found its T-shaped design appealing, as it allows you to hold it with both hands. The matte finish makes it easy to grasp and it's fairly slim, making it comfortable to hold even for those with small hands. It's made from a material that isn't stained by dirty water, so wiping it off after washing is enough. On the other hand, it's enormous and weighs a considerable one pound six ounces, making it hard to carry.


However, this plunger can't be beaten when it comes to easily clearing blockages, which is the most important property of a plunger. For those with sanitary concerns, it would be a good idea to buy the plunger holder that supports this product, too.

Handle Width3.5 in.
Weight22.22 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesCollapsible handle
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No.2
No.1 in Sanitary

CloroxToilet Plunger

Overall rating

4.26

  • Clog-clearing ability
    4.30
  • Ease of pushing
    4.32
  • Ease of grasping
    3.50
  • Less splashing
    4.20
  • Sanitary
    4.50
TypeFlange
Drip tray
Entire length
19.5 in.
Cup width
6 in
Handle Material
Plastic

Effective on Clogs, and We Especially Love the Caddy

One thing that sticks out when looking at the Clorox toilet plunger is its 15-and-a-half-inch ergonomic handle. It comes with a caddy that hides the rubber head, so you can keep your bathroom looking sleek and clean. When we tried removing a clog with this product, it got the job done with just four plunges and minimal effort, resulting in a stress-free experience. It can create an airtight seal around the pipe, so you don't need to use much strength with this plunger. Thus, it doesn't cause much splashing, allowing you to wipe the floor down after use.


The top of the handle is a broad, triangular tip, so it doesn't dig into your hand when plunging. On the other hand, it's made from a slippery material, so it lost some points on ease of handling.


Regarding sanitation, this product received high marks for its included self-opening and -closing caddy that includes a drip tray inside. Due to its excellent ventilation, the head can be dried efficiently and stored without getting the floor wet. It's extremely easy to use, as it opens automatically when the plunger is lifted and closes automatically when it is placed back in. On the other hand, it makes a loud noise when closing, which is a negative. You should definitely consider this product if you're looking for a plunger with a sanitary design that clears clogs easily.

Handle Width1.7 in.
Weight13.4 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatment
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesDiscreet,Stylish
No.3
No.1 in Ease of grasping
No.1 in Less splashing

NEIKO 60166A Toilet Plunger

Overall rating

4.04

  • Clog-clearing ability
    4.20
  • Ease of pushing
    3.96
  • Ease of grasping
    3.75
  • Less splashing
    4.50
  • Sanitary
    3.60
TypeStepped flange
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
23.5 in.
Cup width
6 in.
Handle Material
Aluminum

Any Toilet, Any Shape, No Splashing

NEIKO's toilet plunger has a four-step level suction cup and claims to create a seal around almost any toilet drain opening. The handle is made of aluminum, which is easy to use and gives it a stylish modern look. In our test, it was able to break up the toilet paper blockage in just five plunges.


It lived up to its claim by creating a tight seal around the toilet drain. We could feel water being pushed out with each plunge and didn't need to apply much force. This led to very minimal splashing, which is a plus. Regarding the handle, it's the perfect size for gripping and is appropriate for any hand size. On the other hand, the hook on the tip dug into our hands when plunging, causing pain and disrupting the process. Moreover, there's no rubber grip to prevent it from slipping, making it hard to grip.


It doesn't come with a caddy, so it loses points in sanitation. However, we gave it points for using aluminum, which is resistant to rust, mold, and household bacteria, for the handle. For those with sanitary concerns, consider buying a caddy with an attached toilet brush. If you're worried about whether the plunger will fit your toilet, we recommend this product. This is also an excellent option for those who want to store their plunger by hanging it by a hook.

Handle Width1 in.
Weight13.75 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesHanging hook,Stylish
No.4
No.1 in Ease of grasping
No.1 in Sanitary

YanxusToilet Plunger With Caddy

Overall rating

3.86

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.68
  • Ease of pushing
    3.99
  • Ease of grasping
    3.75
  • Less splashing
    4.20
  • Sanitary
    4.50
TypeFlange
Drip tray
Entire length
19.5 in.
Cup width
5.5 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

Takes a Lot of Plunges to Clear Clogs, but the Caddy Has Good Airflow

In our test, the Yanxus plunger took 11 pumps to clear the blockage, which wasn't the best result. Still, the hard rubber head creates a powerful seal, so you don't need to exert a lot of strength to use it. This makes plunging 11 times not so stressful.


It boasts an ergonomically designed handle, and its rounded tip makes it decently easy to use. We didn't feel any pain from the handle digging into our hands. However, at one pound two ounces, it is a little heavy when cleaning or moving the plunger. Regarding the design, we really liked the self-opening and -closing caddy, which opens when the plunger is lifted and closes when it's placed back. It also has a ventilation slot to improve airflow in the drip tray installed in the caddy.

Handle Width1.7 in.
Weight17.63 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesDiscreet,Stylish
No.5

Mainstays3-piece Plastic Toilet Set

Overall rating

3.82

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.90
  • Ease of pushing
    3.81
  • Ease of grasping
    3.60
  • Less splashing
    3.20
  • Sanitary
    4.20
TypeFlange
Drip tray
Entire length
19.5 in.
Cup width
6 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

A Plunger and Brush Set That Worked After About 8 Plunges

The Mainstays three-piece toilet set comes with a tough toilet brush equipped with polyester bristles. The good thing about this set is that you can store your essential bathroom items together without taking up much space. As for unclogging the toilet, this plunger performed well, clearing the blockage in just eight plunges. We felt that the cup created a tight seal around the drain.


The handle is robust and fits nicely in the hands, so it doesn't require a lot of strength to use. However, we noticed a considerable amount of splashing when using this plunger, so it's important to take the proper preventative steps. As for the handle, it has a matte finish and feels nice to hold. However, the tip is a bit narrow, and we felt some pain when it pushed into our palms.


The caddy that allows you to store it with a toilet brush earned it a good evaluation. It's very easy to use, as you only have to place the plunger in the caddy. It's not designed to hide the head, though, so this may not be the right product for someone aiming for a stylish bathroom. That being said, if you're looking to store your brush and plunger together, this is a good option.

Handle Width1.1 in.
Weight14.46 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brush
FeaturesN/A
No.6
No.1 in Ease of grasping
No.1 in Sanitary

OXOGood Grips Toilet Plunger With Holder

Overall rating

3.73

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.68
  • Ease of pushing
    3.78
  • Ease of grasping
    3.75
  • Less splashing
    3.20
  • Sanitary
    4.50
TypeFlange
Drip tray
Entire length
22.8 in.
Cup width
5.5 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

The Caddy Is Hygienic, but It Splashes a Lot of Water

The Good Grips toilet plunger by OXO was created with the concept of universal design in mind. Its rubber head is designed to work on all toilets, including low-flush models. It wasn't the most effective in our test, as it took 11 plunges to clear the blockage. But the handle's rounded tip made it easy and stress-free to use, and the surface of the shaft is easy to grip.


On the other hand, it weighs in at one pound, and 2.4 ounces, making it difficult to handle. This product performed poorly in splash resistance because it forced the water to overflow. It's important to cover the floor with rags or newspaper when using this product. However, the handle was long enough to prevent dirty water from splashing on our hands.


It comes with a self-opening and -closing holder. Inside the holder is a drip tray with excellent ventilation, which helps evaporate water. That being said, it takes a lot of work to clear blockages and causes a lot of splashing, so it's a step below the top-ranked products.

Handle Width1.7 in.
Weight18.34 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesDiscreet,Stylish
No.7

simplehumanToilet Plunger and Caddy

Overall rating

3.70

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.60
  • Ease of pushing
    3.87
  • Ease of grasping
    3.50
  • Less splashing
    3.40
  • Sanitary
    4.20
TypeFlange
Drip tray
Entire length
23 in.
Cup width
5.5 in.
Handle Material
Stainless steel

Sleek Steel Finish, but the Small Cup Makes Getting a Good Seal Tough

The Simplehuman toilet plunger sports a handle made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel. The included caddy has a magnet that attaches to the plunger, allowing it to be stored in style. It took a lot of work to remove the toilet paper clog; in fact, 12 plunges. The cup was a little too small to cover the drain hole of the toilet we used, so we found it hard to establish an airtight seal. On top of that, it took a lot of force to create the seal, leading to significant splashing.


The substantial tip at the end of the handle is fantastic. Moreover, the narrow part makes it easy to grasp, so we have no complaints there. On the other hand, it weighs a whopping one pound and seven ounces. Despite the weight, after attaching the magnet to the plunger, you can pick them up together, which is convenient when cleaning the floor. The ability to hide the rubber head is another good point. This isn't a bad choice if you're looking for a sanitary and stylish design.

Handle Width2.1 in.
Weight23.28 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesDiscreet,Stylish
No.8
No.1 in Ease of grasping

Rocky Mountain GoodsDrain Plunger

Overall rating

3.52

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.75
  • Ease of pushing
    3.48
  • Ease of grasping
    3.75
  • Less splashing
    4.20
  • Sanitary
    3.00
TypeSink plunger
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
11 in.
Cup width
4 in.
Handle Material
Wood

Lightweight and Easy to Move, but Gets Your Hands Dirty

The Rocky Mountain Goods plunger is compact, with a handle length of just nine inches. It can also be used for sinks, bathtubs, and shower drains. In our test, it took 10 plunges to unclog the pipe. Since it fits snugly to the drain on the bottom of the toilet bowl, it generated a decent amount of power when pushing water. However, a major downside of this plunger when using it on a toilet is its short handle, which causes dirty water to get on your hands. This plunger should only be used on toilets with a shallow bottom.


Despite not causing a lot of splashing, the wooden handle gets soaked with dirty water, making it unsanitary. On top of that, it's hard to grip and push because it's made of wood. Even still, it's extremely light at only five ounces, making it very easy to carry. If you want to use it mainly for the sink or shower, you might want to consider this plunger.

Handle Width0.9 in.
Weight4.93 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesN/A
No.9
No.1 in Less splashing

KendikRubber Toilet Plunger

Overall rating

3.44

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.68
  • Ease of pushing
    3.34
  • Ease of grasping
    3.30
  • Less splashing
    4.50
  • Sanitary
    3.00
TypeFlange
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
21.5 in.
Cup width
6 in.
Handle Material
Wood

Hard to Fit to the Toilet Bowl, and Watch Out for Splinters

The Kendik toilet plunger is from a tire recycling company and is characterized by its head made of high-quality rubber and a wooden handle. It did not perform so well in the unclogging test, as it took 11 plunges to clear the blockage.


This was caused by the shape of the rubber, which does not fit well with the complex shape of the toilet bowl. It struggles to create an airtight seal, so you need to exert a lot of strength when plunging. The handle is hard to grip and not well finished, and we noticed wood splinters on it. On the plus side, splashing was practically non-existent.

Handle Width0.9 in.
Weight14.46 oz.
Cup materialRecycled rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesN/A
No.10

Luigi'sToilet Plunger with Caddy

Overall rating

3.35

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.20
  • Ease of pushing
    3.46
  • Ease of grasping
    3.60
  • Less splashing
    3.40
  • Sanitary
    4.20
TypeAccordian
Drip tray
Entire length
22.5 in.
Cup width
3.5 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

Not Very Effective and Weak Construction

Luigi's toilet plunger claims to clear pipes by blasting them with water rather than air. It's characterized by its bellows-like design, which reaches deep into the drain. In actuality, we were unable to unclog the pipe even after 15 pumps. Blasting the water didn't require much strength, but on the downside, we noticed a considerable amount of splashing.


We felt that the wide tip of the handle made it easy to use, but the joint was weak and bent easily. The included caddy earned a good score. However, the caddy is deep and doesn't have a drip tray, so make sure to keep it clean.

Handle Width1.8 in.
Weight8.46 oz.
Cup materialPlastic
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesStylish
No.11

MR.SIGAToilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo

Overall rating

3.26

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.20
  • Ease of pushing
    3.20
  • Ease of grasping
    3.50
  • Less splashing
    3.20
  • Sanitary
    4.20
TypeFlange
Drip tray
Entire length
18 in.
Cup width
5 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

The Small Head Doesn't Fit Tightly to the Bowl, and Expect Splashing

The toilet plunger and brush combo by MR.SIGA has an all-black design that helps give your bathroom a chic look and keeps your toilet items in one place. This product failed to unclog the pipe in our test, though, only moving the blockage two inches after 15 plunges. This may be due to the small size of the cup and its inability to create a tight seal.


We also had concerns about the thin tip of the handle, which digs into your hand and makes it hard to use. Regarding splashing, a lot of water overflowed out of the bowl due to the need for vigorous plunging. It seems to have a sanitary design with the included caddy, but it doesn't include a drip tray.

Handle Width1.2 in.
Weight13.4 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brush
FeaturesStylish
No.12

Get Bats OutToilet Plunger for Bathroom

Overall rating

3.24

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.20
  • Ease of pushing
    3.20
  • Ease of grasping
    3.60
  • Less splashing
    3.20
  • Sanitary
    3.60
TypeFlange
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
21 in.
Cup width
5.7 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

Barely Moves Clogs and the Hooked Handle Makes It Hard to Use

The Get Bats Out toilet plunger is a heavy-duty mid-sized plunger. With a total length of 21 inches, they claim it can fit in almost any cabinet or under most sinks. This product performed poorly in our test, as the clog only moved a mere inch after 15 plunges. We didn't feel that it created much of a seal around the drain.


In addition, even after pushing out the flange, it went back in after making contact with the drain. You have to touch the rubber cup, which is covered in dirty water, in order to fix this, which is very unhygienic.


Water gushes out of the bowl with each plunge, so we also evaluated it poorly in terms of splash reduction. There is a hook on the end of the handle, so you can't push down there while plunging, requiring you to squeeze the shaft. While the matte finish gives it a good grip, it's very slim and not ideal for those with large hands.

Handle Width0.9 in.
Weight13.75 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesHanging hook
No.12

DEFLECTAIRAccordion Toilet Plunger

Overall rating

3.24

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.20
  • Ease of pushing
    3.18
  • Ease of grasping
    3.60
  • Less splashing
    3.20
  • Sanitary
    3.60
TypeAccordian
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
20 in.
Cup width
6 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

Takes Some Strength to Use and Pushes Water Out of the Bowl

The DEFLECTAIR is an accordion-type plunger that claims to be able to push out a large amount of water. On the plus side, the handle and head can be disassembled, making it easy to clean. Unfortunately, the toilet paper blockage moved only three-quarters of an inch after 15 plunges.


In addition, the accordion-type head stores a lot of water inside and requires a lot of force to push, causing a large amount of water to spill from the bowl. In terms of sanitation, it's easy to clean because it's made of plastic and can be disassembled. However, it does not come with a caddy, so you have to place it directly on the floor.

Handle Width2 in.
Weight8.46 oz.
Cup materialPlastic
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesN/A
No.14

JS JacksonProfessional Bellows Accordion Toilet Plunger

Overall rating

3.11

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.00
  • Ease of pushing
    3.18
  • Ease of grasping
    3.50
  • Less splashing
    3.20
  • Sanitary
    3.60
TypeAccordian
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
19 in.
Cup width
6 in.
Handle Material
Plastic

Ineffective and Somewhat Fragile

The JS Jackson plunger, which can also be used for kitchen sinks, comes in six different colors to suit your style. When it comes to unclogging a toilet, it performed poorly, as it didn't move the blockage at all. To make matters worse, it requires a lot of strength with each push and causes a lot of splashing off of the accordion head.


The tip of the handle is of sufficient width for plunging, but the joint between the handle and the cup is very fragile and bends easily. While its weight of just eight and a half ounces makes it easy to carry, the plastic it's made from makes it feel like a toy and it is unfortunately difficult to grip.

Handle Width2 in.
Weight9.87 oz.
Cup materialPlastic
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesMultiple color options
No.15

PWWDADAHeavy Duty Force Cup Rubber Toilet Plunger

Overall rating

3.06

  • Clog-clearing ability
    3.00
  • Ease of pushing
    3.12
  • Ease of grasping
    3.60
  • Less splashing
    3.40
  • Sanitary
    3.00
TypeSink plunger
Drip trayN/A
Entire length
18 in.
Cup width
5.5 in.
Handle Material
Wood

Doesn’t Fit the Shape of the Toilet, the Rubber Caves In, and the Wooden Handle Isn't Sanitary

The PWWDADA plunger comes in the classic design of a red rubber cup attached to a long wooden handle. Aside from toilets, it can also be used on various other types of drains. When actually used to unclog a toilet, we did not observe any hint of movement of the blockage after 15 plunges. When using this product on something with a complex shape like a toilet, the rubber head caves in, and fixing it is extremely stressful.


The lack of a tight seal made the water splash easily, and the area around the toilet got significantly wet. The handle is made of wood, which is not ideal from a hygiene perspective. The product we purchased also was cracked, so we weren't able to handle it with ease.

Handle Width0.9 in.
Weight7.76 oz.
Cup materialSynthetic rubber
Antimicrobial treatmentN/A
Stain-resistantN/A
With toilet brushN/A
FeaturesN/A

How We Tested the Toilet Plungers

We gathered 15 of the bestselling toilet plungers from Amazon, Walmart, and other sites and put them through rigorous testing to find our top recommendation. Here at mybest, we define that as a plunger that can clear away blockages quickly and easily, is easy to handle, and has a sanitary design.

Products we tested

  1. CloroxToilet Plunger
  2. DEFLECTAIRAccordion Toilet Plunger
  3. Get Bats OutToilet Plunger for Bathroom
  4. JS JacksonProfessional Bellows Accordion Toilet Plunger
  5. KendikRubber Toilet Plunger
  6. KorkyBEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger96-4AM
  7. Luigi'sToilet Plunger with Caddy
  8. MR.SIGAToilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo
  9. Mainstays3-piece Plastic Toilet Set
  10. NEIKO 60166A Toilet Plunger
  11. OXOGood Grips Toilet Plunger With Holder
  12. PWWDADAHeavy Duty Force Cup Rubber Toilet Plunger
  13. Rocky Mountain GoodsDrain Plunger
  14. YanxusToilet Plunger With Caddy
  15. simplehumanToilet Plunger and Caddy

Test① Clog-Clearing

Clog-Clearing

To start, we tested the most important property of a plunger: how well it can unclog the toilet. We used each plunger under the following conditions. 


We attached a drainpipe and clear PVC pipe to a standard toilet bowl. We then inserted a hard wad of Kirkland two-ply toilet paper into the PVC pipe, poured water into the toilet bowl, and created a blockage. 


We used each plunger under these same conditions and checked how many plunges were required to remove the clog.

Test② Ease of Plunging

Ease of Plunging

Next, we tested how easy it was to use the plungers. We evaluated the following factors:


  • Amount of strength need for each push
  • Whether the shape of the handle facilitates easy plunging

Test③ Ergonomics and Usage

Ergonomics and Usage

Here, we evaluated how easy the product is to handle. We evaluated these points while keeping in mind plunging, carrying it, and putting it away.


  • Comfort of the handle
  • The plunger's weight

Test④ Splashing

Splashing

When unclogging a toilet, we all worry about how dirty it makes the floor. In this test, we used the plunger and evaluated how well it prevented splashing, with less splashing leading to a higher rating.

Test⑤ Sanitary Design

Sanitary Design

Finally, we also looked at how sanitary the design of the product is. The points of evaluation are listed below.


  • Handle material
  • Whether it comes with a caddy
  • Whether it comes with a drip tray

How Do I Use a Plunger Correctly?

For the best results, it's important to know the proper way to use a plunger. You should get it down now so you're ready in a pinch.

Cover Up Before Starting

Cover Up Before Starting

Before you begin plunging, make sure to cover up. By "cover up" we mean covering the floors, walls, and other areas with plastic, newspaper, rags, or something to keep them from getting dirty. It's extremely easy to spread dirty water around when using a plunger, so it's important to protect yourself and your bathroom from it.


In particular, it's a good idea to spread out a large plastic bag over the toilet bowl. If you poke a hole in the center and put the plunger through it, the bag will stop a lot of the dirty water from getting out of the bowl.

Push Slowly and Pull Quickly

Push Slowly and Pull Quickly

After you've covered up, it's time to get to work. In order to get the best results, you have to submerge the plunger until the water reaches the uppermost part of the cup. If the water line is too low, start by adding some more.


Next, steadily push the plunger down in order to get an airtight seal around the drain. Pushing it diagonally to the water line and letting as much air out as possible is key in this step. This is because the effectiveness of the plunger diminishes when air enters the space between it and the drain.


Push down until the cup caves in, and then pull and push again with some force, repeating until the blockage is cleared. When the blockage is cleared, add water using a bucket or other vessel to check if it flows smoothly. If there are no issues with the water flow, you can use it as normal.

If Plunging Fails, Try a Vacuum Plunger or Wire Brush

If Plunging Fails, Try a Vacuum Plunger or Wire Brush

If the blockage persists even after using a regular plunger, try a vacuum-powered product with an attached pump. It can apply more pressure, so it may come in handy for eliminating stubborn clogs.


If that doesn't work, try inserting a wire brush into the pipe or using an even stronger compressed air pump. If none of these fix the problem, we recommend calling a professional.

How Do You Clean a Plunger?

How Do You Clean a Plunger?

In order to keep your plunger clean, it's important to perform proper maintenance after use. First, fill a bucket with soap and water. While wearing rubber gloves, remove the plunger from the bowl and scrub it thoroughly in the bucket. Be sure to use plenty of water and leave no soap remaining.


You don't need to use detergent, alcohol, or bleach to clean your plunger. On the contrary, this can cause the rubber on the head to deteriorate, compromising its durability and suction. We recommend drying your plunger in the sun after wiping it off with a paper towel. This will allow the water to dry off completely and prevent bacteria from spreading to the floor or growing in the caddy.

How Can I Stop My Toilet From Clogging in the First Place?

How Can I Stop My Toilet From Clogging in the First Place?

The first step is to make sure to use toilet paper and not things like tissues or wet wipes that don't dissolve in water. Second, you can do two flushes: one flush for waste and another flush for toilet paper. Also, if you need to use a lot of toilet paper, it's important to avoid flushing it all at once.


Lastly, if you want to protect your toilet from blockages as thoroughly as possible, we recommend using single-ply toilet paper, as it dissolves in water more easily than two-ply.

Top 5 Toilet Plungers

No. 1: Korky | BEEHIVE Max Toilet Plunger | 96-4AM

No. 2: Clorox | Toilet Plunger

No. 3: NEIKO | 60166A Toilet Plunger

No. 4: Yanxus | Toilet Plunger With Caddy

No. 5: Mainstays | 3-piece Plastic Toilet Set

View Full Ranking

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