1. The typical "Cup Plunger" 

At first sight, this plunger might make you think "toilet". Wrong! This basic design is an empty cup---no flange or other attachments. Normally, we use it to plunge a toilet but that’s not its primary function. It works better for sinks and bathtubs. If you want to block the overflow hole, use the plunger to seal the drain and then ensure the cup is submerged in water if it isn't already.

2. Flange Plunger 

The flange plunger is designed to fit better into a toilet drain and create a stronger seal, making it more effective at removing clogs. The flange plunger is similar to your cup plunger, but with a few key differences: the material is softer, and there is a small cup (known as the flange) extending down from the bottom end of the plunger.

3. Beehive Plunger 

The beehive plunger is a unique design that works with both old and new toilet designs. The plunger has a stout rubber attachment shaped like a beehive, which tapers off to a smaller flange. This allows for an optimum grip and effective plunge on any toilet.

4. Tiered Plunger 

Tiered plungers work on the same principle as a beehive plunger, but have multiple flat tiers instead of having that beehive shape. 

5. Bellows Plunger 

This design is a single piece of elongated molded plastic with numerous flexible accordion-style ridges. This plunger can be used for sinks and toilets, an all-in-one plunger you could say. The accordion style in theory helps the plunger be more powerful in knocking out clogs. However, one downside to these plungers is that they are hard to clean since crevices allow fecal matter and dirty water to gather. So, if your first use is for the toilet, I wouldn’t recommend using it again in a sink since they’re tough to wash thoroughly.

By owning any one of the common household plungers, you will already be ahead of most people when it comes to fixing bathroom and kitchen clogs. If you clean and store your high-quality plunger properly, it should last for years. Therefore, make a wise investment in your tools. But if you are needing a little more than a plunger, give Duncan Plumbing a call today.