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How To Get Something Out Of The Sink Drain

Jan 26, 2022

When you drop something in the sink, it can be frustrating trying to get it out. But with a little effort, you should be able to retrieve the item without taking apart your drain or calling for plumbing assistance.
You Will Need:
  • Bucket or large bowl 
  • Plunger (if necessary)
  • Rubber Gloves
  • Face Mask (preferred for smell or fumes)

What To Consider Before reaching into a sink drain?

 A clogged drain may be jam-packed with substances that cannot simply be removed by the use of a plunger or even an auger , so it is important to take action before you put your arms into the drain. It is extremely important to protect oneself when attempting to remove obstructions from a sink drain. If there are any chemical cleaners in the drain beside water, they might create dangerous fumes when disrupted by plunging or electrocution.
As well, it is absolutely vital to know what you are getting yourself into when reaching into a sink drain because if left unchecked, these obstructions can grow. Over time food scraps and other build-up will expand until the accumulation either backs up all wastewater flow through the sink or causes the pipes to rupture .

sink drain open with cover

Steps to Remove the Item from the Sink Drain

  1. If possible, turn off the water supply by closing the shut-off valves beneath where you are working. These are usually located directly beneath or beside the faucet that is running. If your sink does not have these valves, try plugging up the other drains in your home so that all of the excess water flows into your sink.
  2. Reach into the drain and feel around for the object you dropped. If it is still in the drain, you should be able to find it by hand and pull it back out. If your item has fallen further down the drainpipe and cannot be reached with your bare hands, try using a wire hanger or long, sturdy piece of metal. Gently push this object through the drain opening until you can hook onto the item that needs to be retrieved 
  3. Once you have hooked onto your item, use a slow but steady motion to extract it from its location within the drainpipe. Be sure not to snag yourself—or anyone else—in pulling your item free from where it's lodged! 
  4. Attempt to re-position the drainpipe back into its proper location. If it is not possible to replace your sink's drain assembly, call for professional services.

Do I Need Plumber If I Drop Something Down My Sink Drain?

If an item accidentally drops into the sink drain (or if you put something in your sink), it can be difficult to get it out. You don't want to call a plumber every time you need to clear a clog, so what can you do?
If the object is small enough, you can try to fish it out yourself using a piece of string. Tie one end around something that will easily fit down your drain, like the head of a screwdriver or wooden spoon. Push the other end toward the clog until it catches onto the object you need to retrieve. Pull back on both pieces of string together and hope for an easy retrieval. This might be easier if you have someone else who can help guide the spoon while pulling at it gently from above..
If you're unable to successfully retrieve your object, don't worry Lutz Plumbing can help! Our plumbers have several different tools available to do this job for you safely. They can use rods with hooks or small cameras attached so they know exactly where the object is stuck before attempting any extractions. If it's a small object, there may be no need for complicated tools at all - something as simple as a claw tool that has a hook at the end can do the job. Call Lutz Plumbing today for help with all things plumbing routine and emergency.

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