To remove a stuck sink stopper, you can try several methods depending on the type of stopper and how accessible it is:

From Above the Sink

• Pull with your fingers or a tool: Try to grip and pull the stopper up. If your fingers can't get a good grip, use a flathead screwdriver or metal nail file to gently pry it loose

• Use a suction cup: A small suction cup (around 1¼ inches diameter) can create enough suction to pull the stopper up, even if the sink is full of water. Items like suction hooks or small bathroom mirrors can work for this

• Use a plunger: Fill the basin with water and place a plunger over the drain. Pump the plunger to create suction and try to pull the stopper upward. Repeat as needed

• Use a strong magnet: A neodymium rare earth magnet can sometimes latch onto the stopper and pull it up. Check for strong magnets in your home (e.g., on refrigerators or spice racks)

• Twist and pull: For some stoppers, especially push-pull types, wearing rubber gloves and twisting the stopper counterclockwise while pulling can help loosen it

• Apply lubricant: If the stopper remains stuck, spray WD-40 or a similar lubricant around the stopper, wait a few minutes, then try twisting and pulling again

• Use dental floss: For push-down stoppers stuck inside the drain, work a piece of dental floss around the stopper underneath the rim, then pull up with the floss to dislodge it

• Tap lightly: Place a piece of wood on the stopper and tap gently with a hammer to loosen it without damaging the sink

From Underneath the Sink (if accessible)

• Detach the pivot rod: Locate the horizontal pivot rod connected to the drain pipe under the sink. Unscrew the nut holding it in place (you might need pliers), then pull out the rod. This releases the stopper, which may drop into the drain but can then be lifted out

• Check and fix linkage: Sometimes the stopper is stuck due to misaligned or disconnected lift rods, clevis straps, or clips. Adjust or reattach these parts to free the stopper

• Use a screwdriver from below: If the lever that slides into the stopper is broken, remove it with pliers and use a screwdriver through the hole to pry the stopper up from underneath

Additional Tips

• Empty the sink of water before attempting removal to avoid mess

• Clean the stopper thoroughly once removed to prevent future sticking due to grime buildup

• If the stopper is damaged or corroded, consider replacing it with the correct model for your sink

These methods cover common types of sink stoppers including pop-up, push-pull, flip-it, and toe-touch models

. Start with the simplest approach (pulling, suction cup, twisting) and proceed to more involved steps if needed.