Hand Augers

Hand augers are go-to plumbing tools for clearing clogs in sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets without chemicals or power. A hand auger—often called a manual drain snake or drain auger—uses a flexible steel cable and a hand crank to navigate bends, break through blockages, and pull debris back out. They’re quiet, portable, budget-friendly, and ideal for routine drain maintenance or quick on-the-spot fixes.

Common options include drum-style sink augers for basins, bathtubs, and shower drains, and toilet augers designed with a protective sleeve and curved guide tube to prevent scratching porcelain. Cable lengths typically range from 15 to 25 feet, with 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch cables covering most residential needs. Look for kink-resistant, high-carbon steel cables, a comfortable grip, a smooth-turning crank, and a corrosion-resistant drum. Some models offer interchangeable tips for cutting through hair, grease buildup, soap scum, or retrieving small objects.

Using a plumbing hand auger is straightforward:
- Feed the cable slowly into the drain, turning the handle clockwise.
- Work past the P-trap and u-bends without forcing the cable.
- Once you feel resistance, tighten the set screw and continue rotating to break or snag the clog.
- Retract steadily, wipe the cable clean, and flush the line with hot water.

For toilets, choose a dedicated toilet auger and extend in stages to avoid damaging the fixture. Always wear gloves and eye protection, sanitize the cable after use, and store it dry to prevent rust.

Choosing the best hand auger depends on fixture type, cable length, and frequency of use. DIY homeowners and pros alike rely on these tools to save service calls, reduce chemical use, and keep drains flowing. Shop hand augers, sink augers, and toilet augers to handle hair clogs, slow drains, and minor obstructions quickly and safely.