How to Remove a Sink Stopper

Some sink stoppers can be removed by hand, without the need of special tools or equipment. Grab the stopper, lift and twist. If the topper does not come out, keep reading for more instructions.

Before working under your sink, remove the sink cabinets of its contents, so you can more easily move around underneath. If there's not enough light in your bathroom, use a flashlight.

After clearing the area underneath the sink, the next step to removing your sink stopper requires that you find and then remove the horizontal rod. This rod connects the stopper to the strap, which is a piece of metal with holes. If it's too dark to see, use a flashlight to help with the search.

Once the rod has been located in the strap, you'll see the rod is held in place with a metal clip. Remove the clip so that the horizontal rod and strap are no longer connected. Be sure to remember which hole the rod was in. Or better yet, take a photo!

Tip: Place the clip nearby so it will not get lost.

At the other end of the horizontal rod, there is a piece called the pivot nut that is still attached to the sink drain. Before you unscrew and remove the pivot nut entirely, get a bucket or a bowl and place it directly underneath to catch any water that may come out. If you can't unscrew the nut with your hand, use a wrench, plumbing wrench or pliers.

Now that the horizontal rod and pivot nut have been removed, you should be able to remove the sink stopper by hand. Simply pull it out. If you're not already, you may want to wear disposable gloves for this part. The stopper may be covered in buildup and gunk, so while it's out, definitely clean it thoroughly.

Now that you know how to remove a sink drain stopper, it's time to clean the sink stopper. There are drain cleaning tools you can use, as well as drain openers.

• Pull off the gunk by hand.
• Run it under warm to hot water and wash with soap.
• Use vinegar or regular detergent.
• Soak the stopper in a soap and water mixture for an extended period of time before cleaning with a rag.

Tip: If your stopper is dirty, it's likely your drain is dirty as well. Invest in a hair remover tool (sometimes called a drain snake) to dislodge hair from the drain. If there's still dirt and grime stuck in the drain, use a drain cleaning chemical or drain cleaning liquid. Follow the instructions on the product to use it effectively and safely. Once you've followed these steps, run the water to confirm there are no more blockages.

Once everything is cleaned and the water is running smoothly again, it's time to reassemble the pieces that were removed. Place the sink stopper back first, followed by the pivot nut. Make sure to tighten it well. Then, reattach the rod to the strap and place the metal clip back where it was. When everything is assembled, run the water to test, then put everything back under the sink that was removed.