By admin 
Removing a sink stopper is not usually a difficult task. With the right technique for your particular stopper type, you can have it out in no time at all.
How to Remove a Pop-Up Sink Stopper
One of the most common types of sink stoppers is the pop-up style. Here are the basic steps to remove a pop-up sink stopper:
Locate and adjust the lift rod and clevis strap under the sink
The first step is to locate the lift rod and clevis strap under the sink. The lift rod is usually a thin metal rod that connects the stopper to the clevis strap above. The clevis strap is a type of clip that holds the lift rod in place. You may need to loosen or adjust the clevis strap so the lift rod is pulled all the way down. This will put the pop-up stopper in the fully open position for easy removal.
Unscrew and detach the pivot rod from the drain pipe
Once the lift rod is adjusted, look for the pivot rod that connects the pop-up stopper to the drain pipe. The pivot rod usually screws into or clips onto the drain pipe. Unscrew or detach the pivot rod from the drain pipe to disconnect the stopper.
Pull out the sink stopper from the drain opening
With the pivot rod disconnected, you should now be able to simply pull the entire pop-up stopper straight up and out of the drain opening. Wag it a bit if it seems stuck. The stopper mechanism should come freely once detached from the drain pipe.
Clean and reinstall the sink stopper if needed
If removing the stopper to clean it or replace a worn part, take the opportunity to clean inside the drain opening and all stopper components. Once dry, reattach the pivot rod to the drain pipe and gently push the pop-up stopper backup into place. Adjust the clevis strap so the lift rod brings the stopper fully closed when pushed down.
How to Remove a Push-Pull Sink Stopper
Another common type is the push-pull sink stopper. These operate with a vertical post instead of a lift rod:
Twist and pull up the sink stopper from the drain opening
Locate the threaded post attached to the bottom of the push-pull stopper inside the drain opening.
Unscrew and remove the mounting post from the drain opening
Twist the stopper counter-clockwise to unscrew the threaded post from the drain. The stopper should then lift straight up out of the drain once unscrewed.
Clean and reinstall the sink stopper if needed
Clean and dry all parts thoroughly before reinstallation. To replace, screw the mounting post back into the drain opening and hand-tighten the stopper securely into place.
How to Remove a Flip-It Sink Stopper
A flip-it style stopper has a hinged cover that flips up for draining:
Flip the sink stopper to the open position
Locate the flip cover on the stopper and swing it fully open so it lays flat.
Pry out the sink stopper from the drain opening
Get your fingertips or a small flathead screwdriver behind the outer rim of the stopper. Gently pry upward to disengage any snaps or seals holding it in the drain.
Clean and reinstall the sink stopper
Wash, dry, and reinstall by pressing the stopper securely back down into the drain opening. Close the flip cover to test the seal.
How to Remove a Toe-Touch Sink Stopper
Toe-touch stoppers operate with a push-pull stem under the sink:
Unscrew the cap of the sink stopper from the drain opening
Find the small cap that covers the stem attachment point under the sink. Twist it counter-clockwise to unthread the cap.
Pull out the stem of the sink stopper from the drain opening
Grasp the exposed end of the stem and gently pull it straight up out through the drain hole. The stopper piece will come off the bottom end as it emerges.
Clean and reinstall the sink stopper
Wash and dry all pieces before reinserting the stem back down through the drain hole. Replace the cap and hand tighten to secure.
So, What’s The Best Way To Remove a Drain Stopper?
There’s no universal “best” method, as it depends on your specific stopper type. But in general, look for any adjustment mechanisms like lift rods, pivot rods, or mounting posts. Detach these to disconnect the stopper from the drain pipe or opening. Then simply pull or pry the stopper piece straight out for easy removal. With the right technique for your model, it only takes a few minutes.
FAQs About Removing a Sink Stopper
Do you need to remove a bathroom sink stopper to replace a faucet?
In most cases, no – it’s not necessary to fully remove the stopper mechanism in order to do faucet replacement work. You can leave it in place and work around it. However, removing the stopper does give better access, so it may be easier if you need to get into tighter spaces under the sink.
How do I remove the sink stopper from the bathtub drain?
Bathtub stoppers often have a different design than sink stoppers. Look for a plastic or metal ring that fits snugly inside the drain opening. Twist the ring counter-clockwise about 1/4 turn to unlock it, then lift it straight up. A seal or gasket may also need to be lifted out from below. Clean and replace everything in reverse order.
How do you remove a sink stopper by removing the metal ring?
To remove a sink stopper with a metal ring, twist the ring anticlockwise to loosen it, then lift the stopper out.
How do you take off a sink stopper?
Twist the sink stopper counterclockwise to remove it.
How do you get a stuck sink stopper out of the sink?
Twist counterclockwise, use a rubber glove if needed.
How do you unscrew a drain stopper?
To unscrew a drain stopper, twist it counterclockwise until it loosens and can be removed.
How to unstick a pop-up plug?
To unstick a pop-up plug, carefully twist or wag it while applying gentle pressure