Knowing how to remove sink stopper is a simple task that can be done without the help of a professional plumber.
Whether you need to clean your drain or replace the stopper altogether, removing it is the first step.
There are several types of sink stoppers, and each requires a slightly different approach to remove it.
Before you start, it’s important to identify the type of sink stopper you have.
Some common types include pop-up stoppers, push-and-pull stoppers, and lift-and-turn stoppers.
Once you know which type you have, you can follow the appropriate steps to remove it.
In general, removing a sink stopper involves unscrewing or lifting it out of the drain, cleaning it, and then reinstalling it.
With the right tools and a little patience, you can easily remove your sink stopper and get your drain flowing smoothly again.
In this article, we’ll go over the step-by-step process for removing different types of sink stoppers, as well as tips for cleaning and reinstalling them.
By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to tackle this simple home repair task on your own.
How To Remove Sink Stopper
If you’re experiencing a clogged sink or need to clean your drain, removing the sink stopper is the first step.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove the sink stopper:
Step 1: Initial Inspection
Before you start, you need to identify the type of sink stopper you have.
There are four types of sink stoppers: pop-up, push-and-pull, lift-and-turn, and toe-touch.
Each type has a different mechanism for removal.
Step 2: Unscrewing The Stopper
Once you’ve identified the type of sink stopper you have, you can start removing it.
For a pop-up sink stopper, you need to unscrew the nut at the bottom of the drain.
For a push-and-pull or lift-and-turn sink stopper, you need to unscrew the cap on the top of the stopper.
For a toe-touch sink stopper, you need to unscrew the plate underneath the sink.
Step 3: Lifting The Stopper
After you’ve unscrewed the stopper, you can lift it out of the drain.
If the stopper is still stuck, you can use pliers to gently pull it out.
Be careful not to damage the stopper or the drain.
Removing a sink stopper is a simple process that most homeowners can handle on their own.
However, if you encounter issues with your stopper removal project or the bathroom sink drain itself, it’s best to contact a plumber.
With these simple steps, you can easily remove a sink stopper and get your drain flowing smoothly again.
Procedure To Remove A Lift-Turn Sink Stopper
If you have a lift-turn sink stopper, you’ll need to follow a different procedure to remove it.
Here are the steps you should follow:
Step 1: Loosening The Knob
- Locate the knob on the sink stopper.
- It should be in the center of the stopper.
- Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen it.
- If the knob is difficult to turn, you can use pliers to help you get a better grip.
- Once the knob is loose, you should be able to lift it up and remove it from the stopper.
Step 2: Removing The Stopper
- Look under the sink and locate the pivot rod that connects the lift rod to the stopper.
- Loosen the nut that holds the pivot rod in place.
- You can use pliers or a wrench to do this.
- Once the nut is loose, you should be able to pull the pivot rod out of the drainpipe.
- Now you can lift the stopper out of the sink.
- If the stopper is stuck, you may need to use pliers to help you pull it out.
Removing a lift-turn sink stopper can be a bit more complicated than removing other types of sink stoppers, but if you follow these steps, you should be able to do it yourself.
If you’re having trouble or you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you may want to consider calling a plumber to help you out.
Post Removal Tips
Once you have successfully removed the sink stopper, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your sink continues to function properly.

Here are some post-removal tips:
- Clean the sink drain thoroughly.
- Use a brush or a cloth to remove any debris or gunk that may have accumulated in the drain.
- This will help prevent clogs in the future.
- Check the pivot rod and stopper for any damage.
- If you notice any cracks or corrosion, you may need to replace these parts.
- You can find replacement parts at your local hardware store or online.
- Lubricate the pivot rod and stopper.
- Apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the pivot rod and stopper to ensure that they move smoothly.
- This will help prevent wear and tear on these parts.
- Test the sink stopper.
- Once you have reassembled the sink stopper, test it to make sure it is working properly.
- Fill the sink with water and let it drain to ensure that the stopper is sealing properly.
By following these post-removal tips, you can ensure that your sink stopper continues to function properly and that your sink remains clog-free.
Key Takeaways
Removing a sink stopper can seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, you can get the job done quickly and easily.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Before attempting to remove the sink stopper, make sure to clear out any items from under the sink to give yourself room to work.
- Some sink stoppers can be removed by hand, while others may require the use of pliers or a wrench.
- If you’re unsure which method to use, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional plumber.
- Once you’ve removed the sink stopper, be sure to clean it thoroughly with soap and water to remove any buildup or debris.
- If your sink stopper is still not working properly after cleaning, you may need to replace it entirely.
- Consult a professional plumber or the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on how to do this.
By following these key takeaways, you can remove and clean your sink stopper with ease, ensuring that your sink continues to function smoothly and efficiently.