How to Keep Sink Stoppers Working

Sink stoppers are those nifty little gadgets in your sinks that shut down or rise up, allowing water to fill or empty from the sink. You raise and lower the stopper using the lift knob. The knob is actually attached to a lever that sits under the sink. The up and down motion of the lever opens and closes the drain.

Most problems with drain stoppers are mechanical; the lever could be bent or jammed. Or there are problems caused by a drain blockage.

So here are some tips to keep your stopper working properly:

• Clean sink stoppers regularly by removing them and cleaning out any hair and dirt that may have lodged in the drain.

• Pour boiling water down the drain once a month to keep it free flowing.

• Check the mechanism under the sink frequently by running water for at least a minute. If there's a leak, you'll know it.

Remember: Keeping your drain clear of hair and soap residue will keep your stopper working and your sink in the pink.