The 10 Best Toilet Augers
This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in June of 2019. The only thing more terrifying than seeing the toilet overflow is realizing the plunger isn't up to the task of solving the problem. That's when it's essential to have an auger handy, as these tools can clear out obstructions that are too dense or too far down your pipes for plunging to dislodge. Just be certain to don safety gear beforehand, especially if you've poured any chemicals in the bowl. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Tacklife Automatic
2. General Pipe Cleaners
3. Ridgid 59802
Editor's Notes
June 15, 2019:
There are two basic types of auger on this list: manual and power. The former are likely to be cheaper and have fewer moving parts that could potentially break, whereas the latter will spare your shoulders and back, as well as giving you a little extra "oomph" behind your cleaning efforts. We gave the top spot to a power model, but the end results should be just as good with one of the manual options shown here.
Another important distinction to consider is the presence of a drum. Some models self-spool inside a drum, which means you won't have to deal with handling the messy cable. This is obviously more sanitary — not to mention less gross — but the downside is that if the cable gets knotted up inside the drum, you might have to break it in order to unkink it.
A few models include accessories like gloves or even carrying cases. This didn't factor into our rankings, but you should invest in the proper safety equipment before you start working on your toilet. This can be a messy job, so gloves and eye protection are essential. That's doubly true if you've poured any sort of chemical down your drain, as it can splash back up and onto your face, potentially causing pain, discomfort, and even permanent damage.
Special Honors
Ridgid K-1500 This powerful machine is on wheels, which makes it easier to transport — and also hints at the massive amounts of cable stored inside. It can reach clogs up to 200 feet down your pipes, and the wire comes in 15-foot sections, which allows you to avoid overkill on smaller jobs. ridgid.com
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Switch Pack If you find finishing the job requires you to leave the bathroom, this backpack-style machine can be taken into crawlspaces, onto roofs, and anywhere else you need to go. The container can be swapped out without tools, allowing you to switch to heavier cable or even add a second drum if you need more line. milwaukeetool.com
Ridgid K750 The 550-watt induction motor on this beast will make short work of anything that might clog up your drains, including tree branches. It comes with a versatile tool set that includes a spade cutter, retrieving auger, and more. ridgid.com
4. Gesoon Drum
5. Ryobi P4001 One+
6. DrainX Pro
7. Ridgid Maxcore
8. Liquid-Plumr 670900
9. Cobra Products 40030
10. Dr. Drain
After getting his bachelor’s from the University of Texas, Quincy Miller moved out to Los Angeles, where he soon found work as a copywriter and researcher, specializing in health and wellness topics for a major online media brand. Quincy is also knowledgeable about home improvement, as he’s had extensive experience with everything from insulation to power tools to emergency room trips, sometimes in that order. Sharing a home with three dogs and a couple of cats has forced Quincy to learn as much as he can about pet supplies, animal nutrition and, most importantly, the best ways to tackle the mountains of fur that accumulate in every corner of your home.