Step 4 · Clear Stubborn Clogs with a Drain Auger

This is the step most people slow down on. Take it one move at a time — there’s no rush, and you can rewind the clip as many times as you need.

If the water flush was unsuccessful, the clog is likely more compacted or solid. Use a drain auger (also known as a plumber's snake) for this step. Feed the end of the auger cable down into the vent pipe until you feel resistance. Once you hit the clog, begin turning the auger's handle clockwise while applying gentle downward pressure. This motion will either break the clog apart or hook onto it. You may need to pull the auger back slightly and then push forward again multiple times. If you feel you've hooked the clog (like a bird's nest), you can try to pull it up and out of the vent.