What is a toilet auger used for?

A toilet auger, also called a closet auger, is a plumbing tool for removing a toilet clog when a plunger does not accomplish the task. The tool has a flexible cable with a crank handle on one end and a sturdy head on the other.

Lower the sturdy end down the drain opening in the toilet bowl. Use the hand crank fixed on the handle to control the movement of the auger. Simultaneously moving the sturdy end of a toilet auger in a clockwise and downward direction typically generates enough force to clear a clog. A toilet auger should not scratch the porcelain in a toilet bowl.