How to Fix Sink Stopper Stuck: Open and Close Positions

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Sink stoppers stuck and sink drain stoppers stuck are the same scenarios that prevent the drain stoppers from moving upward or downward in the sink. Sink stopper stuck positions are two main types: Open sink stuck position, and close sink stuck position. You can fix the sink stopper stuck position by following the step-by-step guide.

These are the 6 steps to fix the sink stopper stuck in both open and closed positions.

Provide Essential Tools to Fix the Sink Stopper Stuck
Clean the Sink Area
Remove the Sink Stopper Cap
Clean the Sink Stopper and Drain
Inspect and Lubricate the Sink Stopper
Reassemble and Test the Sink Stopper

A sink stopper is stuck due to the accumulation of hair, grime, soap scum, or mineral deposits. Prolonged sink stopper stuck cause to mold and mildew growth, bacterial growth, potential health hazards, and material deterioration in the home.

You can quickly fix the bathroom sink stopper stuck with no rod, no suction cup and even in the down position, when you refer to this guide.

How to Fix a Bathroom Sink Stopper Stuck?

6 Steps to fix the bathroom sink stopper stuck

Provide Essential Tools to Fix the Sink Stopper Stuck
Clean the Sink Area
Remove the Sink Stopper Cap
Clean the Sink Stopper and Drain
Inspect and Lubricate the Sink Stopper
Reassemble and Test the Sink Stopper

1. Provide Essential Tools to Fix the Sink Stopper Stuck

Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Silicone lubricant (if needed)
Vinegar and baking soda (for cleaning)
Brush or old toothbrush
Towels or rags

2. Clean the Sink Area

First, you should clean the sink area. Remove any items from under the sink to give yourself space to work. Then, place a towel or bucket under the sink to catch any water that might spill during the process.

After the cleaning process, press down firmly on the stopper and then release it. Sometimes, the mechanism might just be slightly misaligned, and pressing down can help to reset it. Aqviz experts always recommend this before replacing every sink stopper.

3. Remove the Sink Stopper Cap

If pressing down doesn’t work, you’ll need to remove the sink stopper cap. Grip the stopper cap and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew it. If it’s tight, you might need to use pliers to get a better grip.

4. Clean the Sink Stopper and Drain

After removing the sink stopper cap, you should remove the debris by cleaning area thoroughly. Use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to break down any stubborn grime and a brush or old toothbrush to scrub away debris, hair, and soap scum.

Then check the spring mechanism of the sink stopper for any debris or buildup that might be causing it to stick.

5. Inspect and Lubricate the Sink Stopper

Inspect the sink stopper and the mechanism for any signs of damage or wear. If any components are broken or excessively worn, they may need to be replaced.

Apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the sink stopper spring mechanism and moving parts to ensure smooth operation. Be careful not to over-lubricate as this can attract more debris.

6. Reassemble and Test the Sink Stopper

Screw the stopper cap back onto the spring mechanism by turning it clockwise. Make sure it’s snug but not overly tight.

Test the Sink stopper by pressing it down to see if it seals and then pressing it again to see if it pops up correctly.

You should fill the sink with water and test the stopper to ensure it can hold water and drain properly.

How to Fix a Sink Stopper Stuck DIY?

These 3 quick ways will help you fix the bathroom sink stopper stuck easily.

How to Fix a Bathroom Sink Stopper With No Rod?

You can fix the bathroom sink stopper without a rod; instead, you can use a flat screwdriver or knife (pocket knife) to pull the stopper between the sink and stopper space. Then, you can use your fingers or a thread to pull the stopper up.

How to Fix a Bathroom Sink Stopper With No Suction Cup?

You can fix the bathroom sink stopper without a suction cup. Instead of this, you can use one of these, such as a plunger, a knife, or a flat screwdriver. Using these things, you can fix the sink stopper if there is no suction cup available.

How to Fix a Bathroom Sink Stopper in the Down Position?

You can fix the bathroom sink stopper in the down position by using a professional plumber and diy tools such as a plunger, suction cup, threads, a flat screwdriver, and a knife. This may cause to cause to water overflow from the sink with resulting in huge water damage to the bathroom structure.

What Should You Do to Unstuck a Sink Stopper?

To unstuck a sink stopper, and function it smoothly and avoid water damage from backups or overflows, you should follow the below recommended simple daily best practices.

Run hot water after each use
Wipe away debris daily
Lift and lower the stopper fully
Avoid dumping oily substances
Use a sink strainer insert
Keep the area dry
Check stopper movement weekly
Flush with vinegar and hot water weekly

What Are the Water Damages Due to a Sink Stopper Stuck?

When a sink stopper is stuck in the closed position over time, it may cause serious water damage to the house. Aqviz experts have identified the following water damage due to a prolonged sink stopper being stuck.

Standing water overflow
Cabinet wood rotting
Mold and mildew growth
Sealant and caulk deterioration
Discoloration of surfaces
Water stains on the flooring
Swollen particleboard or MDF
Corrosion of plumbing components
Foul odors from stagnant water
Backflow into adjacent drain lines
Paint blistering under the sink
Tile grout weakening
Warped laminate countertops

In order to prevent these water problems, you should waterproof the bathroom or kitchen area properly.

How to Maintain a Sink Stopper Properly?

You can stop the sink stopper from getting stuck by following the steps below.

Do regular cleaning in the Sink
Use the sink properly
Apply lubricant WD-40 regularly on the sink stopper
Do periodic inspections
Do professional maintenance