How To Take Out Sink Stopper Bathroom

How to Take Out a Sink Stopper in Your Bathroom

A sink stopper is a simple yet essential component of your bathroom sink. It allows you to fill the sink with water for tasks like washing your face or shaving, and then easily drain it when finished. Over time, however, sink stoppers can become stuck or malfunction. Knowing how to remove and replace a sink stopper is a valuable skill for any homeowner. This article will guide you through the process, covering the most common types of bathroom sink stoppers.

Identify the Type of Sink Stopper

The first step is to identify the type of sink stopper you have. The two most common types are lift-and-turn stoppers and push-button stoppers.

Lift-and-turn stoppers are characterized by a lever or knob that you lift to open and close the drain. They typically have a threaded stem that extends down into the drainpipe.

Push-button stoppers, on the other hand, are activated by pressing a button on the overflow plate (the small plate located near the top of the sink). These stoppers usually have a rubber plug that seals the drain opening when the button is pressed.

Removing a Lift-and-Turn Stopper

Removing a lift-and-turn stopper is a straightforward process:

Close the Water Supply: Turn off the water supply valve to the sink. This valve is typically located under the sink or behind the wall.
Remove the Overflow Plate: If your sink has an overflow plate, it needs to be removed. This typically involves a small screw holding the plate in place. If the screw is corroded or difficult to remove, you can use a pair of pliers to grip it.
Unscrew the Stopper: Locate the threaded stem of the stopper, usually visible just below the drain opening. Turn the stem counterclockwise to unscrew it. You may need to use a pair of pliers or a wrench to grip the stem securely.
Remove the Stopper: Once the stem is unscrewed, the stopper should lift out of the drain opening.

Removing a Push-Button Stopper

Removing a push-button stopper is a more involved process. The steps may vary depending on the specific model you have, but here's a general guide:

Close the Water Supply: Turn off the water supply valve to the sink.
Remove the Overflow Plate: As with lift-and-turn stoppers, you might need to remove the overflow plate first.
Remove the Button Assembly: The button assembly usually has a small clip or a nut that secures it in place. Locate this mechanism and carefully remove it.
Remove the Rubber Plug: Once the button assembly is removed, the rubber plug can be pulled out of the drain opening.
Remove the Stopper Mechanism: The stopper mechanism might be connected to a threaded stem or a spring-loaded mechanism. Carefully separate the stopper mechanism from the drain opening.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If you encounter difficulties removing your sink stopper, there are a few common issues and solutions:

Stuck Stopper: If the stopper is stuck, try using a pair of pliers to grip the stem or button assembly and gently wiggle it free. You can also try applying a few drops of penetrating oil to loosen the mechanism.
Corroded or Damaged Parts: If the stopper or its associated parts are corroded or damaged, you may need to replace them. Check your local hardware store or plumbing supply store for replacement parts.

Removing and replacing a sink stopper can be a straightforward task, but it's important to identify your specific type of stopper and follow the steps outlined above. If you're unsure about any part of the process, it's always best to consult with a professional plumber. Remember, a well-maintained sink stopper is essential for a functional and aesthetically pleasing bathroom.