Tools & materials
- Plastic drain cleaning stick (zip-it tool)
- Pliers
- Rag
- Old toothbrush
- Bucket
Step by step
- Step 1
Clear the area under the sink and find the pivot nut on the back of the drainpipe that holds the stopper rod.
- Step 2
Loosen the pivot nut, pull the rod out and lift the stopper out from above.
- Step 3
Clean hair and gunk off the stopper with a rag and toothbrush.
- Step 4
Push the drain stick down the drain, pull it out slowly and remove the hair it hooks. Repeat until it comes up clean.
- Step 5
Reinstall the stopper and rod, tighten the pivot nut and run hot water for a minute to flush it.
When to stop and call ProFix
If you see any of these, stop and call us:
- More than one drain in the house is slow
- Water backs up into the tub or another fixture
- The clog is past the trap and the stick can't reach it
- The pivot nut leaks after reassembly
Not in the mood to DIY? A ProFix pro can handle it for you in Chicago Metro and Dallas–Fort Worth, with a written price before work starts.
Related guides
These guides are general information for simple repairs. You're responsible for your own safety and for following local codes and your lease or HOA rules. When in doubt, stop and call a licensed professional. All DIY guides