How To Remove Bathroom Sink Stoppers?
Bathroom sink stoppers can be annoying when they get stuck or clogged. Removing, cleaning, or replacing them is a simple task that can help keep your sink working well. In this article, we’ll show you easy steps to take out your bathroom sink stopper. With these clear instructions, you’ll be able to do this job yourself without any trouble.
Steps to Remove Different Types of Bathroom Sink Stoppers
How to Remove a Push-Pull Sink Stopper
A push-pull sink stopper is easy to take out because it has a simple design. Here’s how you can do it:
- Twist and Lift: Start by twisting and lifting the stopper out of the drain. If your stopper has a knob, hold the stopper with one hand and the knob with the other. Turn the knob counterclockwise to unscrew it and reveal the bolt underneath.
- Unscrew the Bolt: Once you see the bolt, use a screwdriver or pliers to unscrew it from the drain crossbar. If your stopper doesn’t have a detachable knob, twist the whole stopper counterclockwise to unscrew it from the crossbar. Lift the stopper out once it’s loose.
- Clean and Put Back: Check the stopper for any damage or buildup. Clean off any hair, soap scum, or debris with a brush and some cleaner. Once it’s clean, put the stopper back by reversing the steps. Secure the bolt, and if needed, reattach the knob.
How to Remove a Flip-It Sink Stopper
Flip-It sink stoppers use a lever to control a gasket inside the drain, making water flow or stop. Here’s how to take one out:
- Open the Stopper: Flip the lever to the open position. This will make it easier to grab.
- Pull Out the Stopper: Hold the lever and twist the stopper while pulling it up. Lift it out of the drain.
- Clean and Reinstall: Check the stopper for damage. If it looks good, clean off any dirt with a brush and cleaner. Once clean, put the stopper back in the drain.
How to Remove a Toe-Touch Sink Stopper
Removing a toe-touch sink stopper is simple. Here’s how to do it:
- Open and Unscrew the Cap: Push the stopper down to open it. Once it’s open, hold the stopper and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew the cap.
- Take Out the Stopper and Stem: After the cap is unscrewed, use pliers or a screwdriver to remove the screw from the crossbar. Lift the stopper out and set it aside. Then, pull out the stem.
- Clean and Reassemble: Check the stopper and stem for any damage. Clean them well with a brush and cleaner to remove any dirt, hair, or soap scum. Once they are clean, put the stopper back by reversing the steps.
How to Remove a Pop-Up Sink Stopper
Pop-up sink stoppers are usually found in bathroom sinks and are a bit more complex. Here’s an easy way to remove one:
- Find and Adjust the Lift Rod and Strap: Look under the sink for the lift rod and clevis strap. Clear out any items in the way. The clevis strap connects to the lift rod that runs through the faucet. You might need to move this rod up or down to disconnect the pivot rod.
- Unscrew and Remove the Pivot Rod: Unscrew the pivot rod from the drain pipe. The stopper will drop into the drain, so hold the stopper or put something under it to keep it from sliding down. Loosen the nut connecting the pivot rod to the drain pipe with pliers if needed, and then pull out the pivot rod.
- Pull Out the Sink Stopper: With the pivot rod removed, you can lift the stopper out of the drain. If there’s a clog, use a drain snake to clear any debris before putting the stopper back.
- Clean and Reinstall the Stopper: Clean any hair, gunk, or grime from the pivot rod and stopper using a brush and cleaner. Check for damage and replace any parts if needed. To reinstall, put the stopper back into the drain and insert the pivot rod through the hole in the stopper. Once it’s connected right, the drain should work normally. Tighten the nut to secure everything.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, fixing a bathroom sink stopper is simple and can be done with basic tools. Following the easy steps in this article, you can remove, clean, or replace different stoppers, ensuring your sink works properly. With a little time and effort, you can handle the task yourself and keep your sink in good shape.
FAQs
Q: How do you remove the sink stopper with a pivot rod?
A: To remove the stopper, go under the sink and unscrew the metal rod that connects to the drain pipe. You might need pliers or a wrench to loosen it. Once the rod is off, pull it out along with the round plug attached to it. Then, go back to the sink and pull the stopper out.
Q: How do you unplug a sink stopper?
A: To remove the stopper, place a plunger over the sink’s drain hole, just like you would when unclogging a toilet. Push down hard to create a seal, then pull the plunger up. The suction should lift the stopper. Keep doing this until the stopper comes up.
Q: How do you remove a rotating sink stopper?
A: Look underneath the sink for a big plastic bolt that’s holding the drain in place. Take off the P-trap (the curved pipe) and unscrew the bolt. You might need to use some force to break the seal from the caulking. You’ll need to add some fresh caulking when you put the new drain in.
Q: How to clean a sink stopper without removing it?
A: Pour baking soda down the drain, followed by boiling water. This can help clear the clog. If that doesn’t work, try using a plunger to push the clog out. If neither of these works, the clog might be bigger, and you’ll need to remove the drain trap to fix it.
