How To Make a Makeshift Plunger

A common problem homeowners face is contending with a blocked drain or leaky pipes. These situations always seem to strike at the most inconvenient times, and when they do, the right equipment is never on hand. 

Whether you’re struggling to unblock your toilet or shower drain, the first thing you’re probably reaching for is your trusty plunger. But as Murphey’s Law would have it, it’s just nowhere to be found! 

If you’re avoiding a run to the store or you’re putting faith in your DIY skills, you’ll be happy to know that removing clogs can be done with a few household items you likely have lying around. 

Making a Makeshift Plunger: 

The toilet is overflowing and you just can’t seem to find your plunger. A makeshift plunger could be just the solution you need to tackle the problem without any hassle.

Plungers work by creating a seal over the drain, using suction to dislodge blockages. When you use the plunger to create a push and pull motion, you generate pressure and suction inside the pipe. This pressure helps to unblock or loosen the clogs, which allows water to flow freely again. 

Your makeshift plunger will need to generate the same air and pressure to help loosen those minor clogs. However, while DIY solutions can help ease the frustration of a blocked drain, it’s important to remember that some DIY fixes may be harmful to your plumbing system. 

While the first step is always to call a professional, here are a few makeshift plunger solutions to try in the meantime: 

The Plastic Bottle Method

This is called the pressure-and-release method and uses a plastic bottle to force airflow into your pipes. It can be a great method to help dislodge stubborn clogs, and is especially useful when you only have a large plastic bottle or a two-litre soft drink bottle available. 

The first step is to cut the bottom of the bottle and place the end over the toilet bowl. You need to create a bit of a seal, so ensure the bottle fits snuggly. Using quick, firm motions, create a push and pull movement that mimics a plunger. This action forces water pressure and air towards the clog, creating pressure that can help loosen the clog. 

This method can also be adapted to sinks or basin drains. To modify it in order to fit the size of your sink, you can use a smaller bottle, such as a 500ml soft drink plastic bottle. 

If the clog doesn’t clear right away, try the method a few more times. After several attempts, it’s best to call a professional.

Mop and Plastic Bag Method

This is a great method for unclogging your toilet, and it only requires a mop and a plastic bag! Wrap a strong plastic bag around the mop head, securing it tightly. Remember, the objective is to create a tight seal in order for you to create pressure. Make sure you’re plunging to the u-bend of your toilet while creating a push and pull motion. After several pumping motions, remove the mop and see if the water drains away. If you’re unsuccessful with your first attempt, you can repeat this action if needed.  

It can get a bit messy, so scoop out any excess water from the toilet bowl to avoid using your makeshift plunger to mop up puddles.

DIY Drain Snake 

This may not be a method that simulates a plunger, but it’s a great  DIY solution to alleviate clogs. For this method, all you need is a wire coat hanger, which you’ll need to unravel and straighten. To tackle the clog, bend one end of the DIY drain snake into a U-shape, then use it to push and pull, loosening the blockage.

Be careful not to force the snake too hard, as this could damage your pipes.

Call the Professionals 

DIY solutions like creating a makeshift plunger can be highly effective as a quick fix or addressing minor clogs. However, if the problem persists, having a professional on standby can save you time and prevent any damage to your plumbing system.

Whether the water is overflowing in the garden or you’re contending with a blockage in your bathroom, Clearpath Drainage delivers excellent unblocking services 24/7 – no makeshift plunger required! 

Get in touch with us today, and let's help get your pipes flowing freely again!

Blocked drain? Leaky pipe? Slow-draining sink? Clearpath Drainage provides 24/7 emergency drainage services. Our experienced team will quickly identify and fix the issue so you can get back to normal fast.

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