Best Toilet Plunger of 2025
Let’s be honest—no one wants to think about toilet plungers.
But when you need one, you really need one.
The problem is, not all plungers are built the same.
Some just push water around without fixing the clog.
Others actually get the job done fast and without the mess.
At Trav’s Plumbing & HVAC, we’ve seen every kind of toilet clog you can imagine (and a few you probably can’t).
This guide pulls from our real-world experience to help you choose the best toilet plunger—one that works when you need it most.
The 4 Main Types of Toilet Plungers (And Which One You Should Actually Use)
Before we get into the winners, let’s break down the different types of plungers.
Not all of them work great for toilets.
1. Cup Plunger (a.k.a. sink plunger)
This is the classic red rubber one.
Works okay on flat surfaces like sinks, but not great for toilets.
Why?
It can’t seal over the toilet drain properly.
Verdict: Use this for sinks only.
2. Flange Plunger
This is the one you should be using.
It looks like a cup plunger but has a flap (or “flange”) that fits into the toilet drain.
That flange is the key—it creates a proper seal and gives you real suction.
Verdict: Best plunger for toilets, hands down.
3. Accordion Plunger
Made of hard plastic and looks a bit weird.
It takes a little more effort to use, but the pressure is no joke.
These can be great for really stubborn clogs.
Verdict: Powerful, but can be messy if you’re not careful.
4. Taze Plunger
These are used by pros for commercial jobs.
You’re not going to find this in your average home—and you don’t need to.
Verdict: Overkill for most homeowners.
The Best Toilet Plungers in 2025 You Can Actually Buy (Plumber Approved)
Here’s what we recommend based on what we use on the job and what we’d trust in our own homes.
You can click the names of them to be brought to an online store for each one, or check out the comparison table at the bottom!
1. Korky Beehive Max
Best Overall Plunger for Toilets
Super flexible beehive design fits almost any toilet
Works great on low-flow models
Creates a strong seal with minimal effort
Why we like it: It just works. No fuss. No splash.
2. Neiko 60166A Heavy Duty
Best for Tough Clogs
Industrial-strength design
Strong aluminum handle
Built to last
Why we like it: If you’ve got frequent clogs or older plumbing, this one's a tank.
3. OXO Good Grips Toilet Plunger
Best for Small Bathrooms
Comes with a drip-proof, minimalist caddy
Compact but effective
Soft handle grip
Why we like it: Looks nice in your bathroom and doesn’t scream “plunger!”
4. Generic Accordion Plunger (Harbor Freight or Canadian Tire style)
Best Budget Option
Super strong suction
Cheap and easy to find
Takes some muscle to use
Why we like it: Not pretty, but it works hard for under cheap.
5. Simplehuman Toilet Plunger
Most Stylish
Sleek stainless steel handle
Hidden caddy keeps it discreet
Designed for modern toilets
Why we like it: Looks good, works well, and doesn’t gross you out when it’s sitting by the toilet.
Not sure which one to pick?
Here’s a side-by-side look at the best toilet plungers we recommend, with everything from handle length to ideal use cases.
How to Choose the Best Toilet Plunger for Your Home
Here’s what we look for when buying a plunger:
Seal Quality: A good seal means better pressure = better results.
Shape: Flange plungers are best for toilets.
Handle Comfort: Long enough to give leverage, but comfortable to hold.
Splash Control: Some plungers are way messier than others.
Storage: If it comes with a caddy, that’s a win.
Flange vs Cup Plunger: What’s Really Better?
Here’s the deal: flange plungers win every time when it comes to toilets.
They’re made for the curved drain in your bowl.
Cup plungers just can’t get a good seal unless you’re using them on a flat surface like a sink or tub.
Bottom line: If it doesn’t have a flange, don’t use it on your toilet.
Pro Tip: How to Actually Use a Toilet Plunger
We’ve seen it all—so let’s just make sure you know exactly how to use a plunger:
Run warm water over the plunger to soften the rubber.
Insert the plunger so the flange fits snug into the toilet drain.
Push down gently at first to remove air.
Plunge with force, straight up and down, about 15–20 seconds.
Remove the plunger and check. Repeat if needed.
Don’t flush until the clog is cleared—unless you like overflow drama.
Still Clogged? Time to Call a Plumber
Sometimes a plunger isn’t enough.
Tree roots, old pipes, and mystery blockages can require professional tools and know-how.
If that’s the case, don’t wait—give Trav’s Plumbing & HVAC a call.
We’re local, reliable, and we’ve been unclogging toilets across Southern Manitoba for years.
📞 431-816-8116
📍 Serving Southern Manitoba
💧 24/7 Emergency service available
Final Thoughts
A good plunger isn’t expensive—but a bad one can cost you time, frustration, and a flooded floor.
Save yourself the stress.
Pick up one of the plumber-approved options from this list and keep it handy.
And if things still won’t flush right?
We’ve got your back.
Call Trav’s Plumbing & HVAC and we’ll take care of it.
FAQs
What is the best plunger for toilets?
We recommend the Korky Beehive Max—it works on almost all toilet shapes and clears clogs fast.
Is a flange plunger better than a cup plunger?
Yes, especially for toilets. Cup plungers are for sinks and tubs.
Can I use a sink plunger on a toilet?
Technically yes, but it won’t work as well and might make a mess.
Do low-flow toilets need a special plunger?
Not special, but they work best with a flexible flange like the Korky Beehive.
Where can I buy the best toilet plunger in Canada?
Check Amazon, Home Depot, Canadian Tire, or your local hardware store.
