I need a handyman/handywoman's help!

[beckmrk04]

Ok. I am about to dump some Drano down my bathroom sink for the umpteenth time- I'm used to this, since I shed more than a dog in summer.

Then it occurs to me that (and I do not know the real names for the sink parts so please bare with me): You know the plug part that stops up the sink when you pull the thingy up top by the faucet? I thought maybe I should take that plug part out and clean around it- it seems pretty gunked up. But it won't come out. Shouldn't it? Is there a way to get it out that doesn't involve a lot of tools? Or, any ideas about how to clean it without taking it apart?

I'm clueless and could use some ideas.

 

[OrlandoMike]

Look under your sink. There will be a rod connecting the plug to the knob you use to open and close the plug. Unscrew the rod and pull the plug out. Just remember which hole the rod was screwed into, you will want to re-screw the plug into the same hole.

 

[beckmrk04]

Look under your sink. There will be a rod connecting the plug to the knob you use to open and close the plug. Unscrew the rod and pull the plug out. Just remember which hole the rod was screwed into, you will want to re-screw the plug into the same hole.

I just went and looked and I see where I need to unscrew it. Now off to find a flashlight and a wrench.....

 

[beckmrk04]

I did it! And ohmygosh is that disgusting!!! Will make note to self- clean this thingy more often....

Thanks for your help!

 

[kristilew]

Yeah, I clean those once a week with the same mildew killer I use on the shower tiles. They do get nasty. I also use an old toothbrush to brush down the inside of the pipe while I'm at it.

If you have lots of minerals in your water and want to add more OCD items to your cleaning list, try unscrewing the tip of the faucet and cleaning out that little screen as well - it gets all sorts of build up and yet we put water from it into our mouths. Shudder!

 

[beckmrk04]

I also use an old toothbrush to brush down the inside of the pipe while I'm at it.

That's what I am doing right now! I am getting ready to screw the thing back together.

I'm going to have to take a peak at the screen part now, too.

 

[OrlandoMike]

I did it! And ohmygosh is that disgusting!!! Will make note to self- clean this thingy more often....

Thanks for your help!

Anytime! Make sure to wash your hands real good when you are done!

 

[beckmrk04]

Anytime! Make sure to wash your hands real good when you are done!

You aren't kidding. That was gross. I just cleaned up and had to double-soap. But, I got it all put back together, and now the sink drains just fine- no Drano needed!