10 Easy Steps To Fix Your Bathroom Faucet: No More Stuck Stopper!
What To Know
- Whether it’s a pop-up stopper that won’t pop up or a lift-and-turn stopper that won’t budge, a clogged sink can disrupt your daily routine and create a mess.
- To do this, insert a flathead screwdriver into the small hole on the top of the stopper and pry it out.
- Apply the lubricant to the stopper and drain opening and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove the stopper.
A stuck bathroom sink stopper can be a major annoyance. Whether it’s a pop-up stopper that won’t pop up or a lift-and-turn stopper that won’t budge, a clogged sink can disrupt your daily routine and create a mess. But don’t worry, fixing a stuck sink stopper is a relatively simple task that you can tackle yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you unclog your sink stopper and get your sink flowing smoothly again.
Identifying the Type of Stopper
The first step is to identify the type of stopper you have. There are two main types of bathroom sink stoppers:
1. Pop-up stoppers: These stoppers have a small button or lever that you press to raise or lower the stopper.
2. Lift-and-turn stoppers: These stoppers have a handle that you lift to raise the stopper and turn to close it.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fixing a Stuck Sink Stopper
Pop-Up Stopper:
1. Clear the drain: Remove any hair or debris that may be clogging the drain. You can use a drain snake or a pair of pliers to pull out the blockage.
2. Remove the stopper: Once the drain is clear, you can remove the stopper. To do this, insert a flathead screwdriver into the small hole on the top of the stopper and pry it out.
3. Clean the stopper: Clean the stopper and the drain opening with a mild soap solution. Remove any mineral deposits or hair that may be stuck to the stopper or the drain.
4. Reinstall the stopper: Insert the stopper back into the drain opening and make sure it fits snugly.
Lift-and-Turn Stopper:
1. Remove the cap: The lift-and-turn stopper has a cap that covers the screw that holds the stopper in place. Remove the cap using a flathead screwdriver or a coin.
2. Loosen the screw: Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screw that holds the stopper in place. Do not remove the screw completely.
3. Lift and turn the stopper: Lift the stopper slightly and turn it counterclockwise to remove it.
4. Clean the stopper and drain: Clean the stopper and the drain opening with a mild soap solution. Remove any mineral deposits or hair that may be stuck to the stopper or the drain.
5. Reinstall the stopper: Insert the stopper back into the drain opening and tighten the screw. Make sure the stopper is properly aligned and closes securely.
Additional Tips
- If the stopper is still stuck after cleaning, you can try using a lubricant like WD-40 or petroleum jelly. Apply the lubricant to the stopper and drain opening and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove the stopper.
- If you are unable to remove the stopper yourself, you can call a plumber for assistance.
- To prevent future clogs, clean your sink drain regularly and avoid pouring grease or hair down the drain.
Wrapping Up
Fixing a stuck bathroom sink stopper is a relatively simple task that you can tackle yourself. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can unclog your sink stopper and get your sink flowing smoothly again. Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent future clogs and keep your sink in good working order.