How to Use a Plunger the Right Way
It may not be that you are using the plunger wrong, you might just have the wrong plunger!
Most bathrooms come equipped with a plunger like these:
A plunger like this, often referred to as a “sink plunger” is good for just that, sinks and little else. The main flaw with a plunger like this is that they have very little air space. The best way to use these is to ensure a full seal on the drain, and then use short and quick motions to unclog. These work best with shallow clogs, as far as the p-trap.
But, we have “Toilet” plungers that have a design that fits the shape of modern toilets.
The key to this is the extra part that closes the bottom, called a "Flange". The flange allows the plunger to create a complete seal with the drain, making for a far easier plunging. To use this correctly, it is important to approach the drain at a slight angle to make a complete seal. Then use long movements to fully drive all the water through the drain until the toilet is empty. If there is not enough water in the bowl to fully remove the clog, you can use a pitcher or pot to add water until finished. Note that hot (not boiling) water works best!
Then we have the third type of plunger, the "Round-Bulb". These are very efficient due to the excess of flange and airspace built into them. To use, follow the same method as the toilet plunger; approach at an angle and fully compress the plunger on each stroke. These plungers are also usable on sinks! All you have to do is invert the lower flange section so that it now has a flat surface, and you can use it just like a sink plunger.
If none of these work, or if you wish to retrieve whatever may be causing the clog, you can bust out a closet auger to really get in there. This is not necessary for anything but the most intense clogs, and it is important to know how to use one before you try. To use, take the augur and lead the tip into the drain, placing the elbow on the bottom. Now use the leverage to push the end up until it stops. Once it has stopped, turn the handle until you can feel it give, and then turn and push all the way through. If you desire, you can give it a few extra turns to ensure you clear or retrieve the blockage and then pull the spring in.
