How to Fix a Stuck or Slow Bathroom Sink Stopper

Drain stoppers are the unsung heroes of the bathroom, but they are also magnets for hair, soap scum, and stray jewelry. When your stopper stops popping up or refuses to hold water, the culprit is usually sitting right beneath the basin in the overflow assembly or the tailpiece. Getting this back in working order is less about plumbing expertise and more about getting comfortable working in the cramped space under the vanity. When done well, the stopper moves smoothly with the lift rod, creates a perfect seal when closed, and clears completely when opened, restoring full drainage to your sink.

1. Clear Your Work Zone. Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch any residual water. Clear out the cabinet under the sink so you have enough room to maneuver your head and shoulders inside.
2. Disconnect the Pivot Rod. Locate the pivot nut on the side of the drain tailpiece. Unscrew it by hand or with channel-lock pliers, then pull the pivot rod out just enough to release the stopper.
3. Scrub Away the Buildup. Pull the stopper straight up out of the drain. Scrub it thoroughly with a stiff brush and vinegar to remove all hair and gunk, and run a small bottle brush through the drain opening to clear the path.
4. Fine-Tune the Lift Rod. Check the clevis screw connecting the lift rod to the strap. If the stopper won't stay open, adjust the clevis screw height so the stopper clears the drain fully when the rod is pushed down.
5. Slide Everything Back In. Insert the stopper back into the drain. Slide the pivot rod back through the drain body and ensure the tip of the rod passes through the eyelet at the bottom of the stopper.
6. Lock It Down and Test. Tighten the pivot nut back onto the tailpiece. Turn on the faucet to test the drainage flow and fill the sink to ensure the stopper holds water without leaking.