Introduction
Replacing a sink strainer is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to update the look of your kitchen sink. A sink strainer (also sometimes called a drain basket) is the removable part of the drain that catches food scraps and debris, preventing them from going down the drain and clogging pipes. Over time, sink strainers can become grimy, rusty, and worn out. Replacing them with new strainers is an inexpensive project that can make a big visual impact in your kitchen.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about replacing kitchen sink strainers, including:
- How to choose the right replacement sink strainer
- Steps for safely removing the old sink strainer
- Tips for prepping and installing the new sink strainer
- Common problems and solutions
By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident to tackle this simple DIY sink upgrade that can make your kitchen look brand new again!
Do You Need a Plumber to Replace a Sink Strainer?
While it’s always best to call in a professional plumber for major sink or plumbing repairs, replacing a sink strainer is a straightforward DIY project for most homeowners. As long as you have some basic tools and follow safe practices, you can swap out an old strainer for a new one yourself in just a few steps.
Here are some of the benefits of replacing a sink strainer on your own versus hiring a plumber:
- Cost savings – Plumbers charge at least $100 per hour on average. Replacing a strainer yourself only costs $10-$30 for the part.
- Convenience – You can pick up a sink strainer at any hardware store and replace it when needed versus waiting days or weeks for a plumber appointment.
- Simple process – Drain strainers twist or thread off easily, and new ones twist or thread back on the same way in minutes.
As long as your sink is accessible and you use proper precautions, DIY sink strainer replacement is totally feasible for the average homeowner. Just exercise caution, arm yourself with information, and avoid plumbing tasks beyond your skill level.
Choosing the Right Replacement Sink Strainer
Kitchen sink strainers come in different shapes, sizes, and styles. Here are some key considerations when selecting a replacement strainer for your kitchen sink:
Measure Your Existing Strainer
The most important factor is getting the right physical dimensions. Before heading to the hardware store, measure the diameter of the opening and flange of your existing strainer. Most strainers are 3-5 inches wide. You want your new strainer to fit neatly into the existing sink opening.
Match Your Sink Material
Sink strainers are made from different materials to match common sink types:
- Stainless steel – For stainless steel sinks
- Enameled steel – For enameled cast iron or porcelain sinks
- Chrome – For most other sink materials
Match the material to your sink finish. This helps prevent corrosion.
Consider Your Sink’s Drain Style
Many modern sinks have drain holes without built-in threads for attaching a strainer. For these drainless sinks, you need a strainer with a friction-fit flange that tightens under the sink.
For sinks with threaded drain holes, choose a strainer with corresponding male or female threads to screw into the sink drain.
Choose a Style
Beyond the functional factors above, you can pick a strainer style that matches your kitchen decor:
- Minimal – Sleek and simple stainless or chrome strainers
- Decorative – Elaborate strainers with floral or scrollwork designs
- Covered – Strainers with hinged tops to conceal gunk
Consider the look you want and your kitchen’s style.
How to Remove an Old Sink Strainer
Once you’ve selected the right replacement strainer, it’s time to remove the old one. Here are the steps:
Clear Under-Sink Area
If your sink has a cabinet underneath, remove all stored items so you have room to maneuver. Have a bucket ready to catch any water in the sink drain too.
Disconnect and Unscrew P-Trap
The curved pipe under the drain is called the P-trap. Place a bucket underneath and loosen the nuts on both ends with pliers or your hands. The P-trap will disconnect and drain water into the bucket.
Unscrew Strainer Nut/Threads
Your sink strainer likely has a nut/threaded piece that tightens it against the sink bottom. Insert pliers into the drain hole and grip the nut. Rotate counter-clockwise to unscrew.
Lift Strainer Out of Sink
With the retaining nut fully loosened, the strainer can be removed. Wiggle it free and lift it out of the sink drain hole.
Clean Sink Hole Area
Use a scouring pad and abrasive cleanser to scrub any gunk and grime around the drain hole area in preparation for the new strainer. Rinse thoroughly.
Take care not to drop debris down the now-open drain hole while cleaning! Having a sink plug inserted can prevent this.
Preparing the New Sink Strainer
After removing the old sink strainer, take a moment to prepare the new replacement strainer before installing it:
Clean Strainer
Use hot, soapy water to wash the new sink strainer. This removes any dirt or residue from the manufacturing process.
Apply Plumber’s Putty
If your strainer doesn’t have a gasket, apply a ring of plumber’s putty around the flange (edge that contacts the sink). This helps create a watertight seal.
Attach Friction Ring (If Needed)
For drainless/flangeless sink holes, attach the friction ring piece to the strainer underside. Tighten the retaining nut to secure it.
Attach P-Trap Adapter (If Needed)
Some replacement strainers come with a P-trap adapter ring. Slide this onto the tailpiece of the strainer if needed to align with your sink’s P-trap.
Now the strainer is prepped and ready to be installed!
How to Install a New Sink Strainer
Installation is easy once you’ve prepped the new sink strainer. Follow these steps:
Insert and Tighten Strainer
Place the strainer into the drain hole in your sink. For threaded drains, turn clockwise to tighten. For drainless, press the flange evenly into the sink hole.
Tighten Friction Ring or Nut
Underneath, hand-tighten any retaining nut, friction ring, or threaded piece to secure the strainer against the sink.
Reconnect P-Trap
Reattach the P-trap curved piece to both the strainer tailpiece and your drain pipe. Hand-tighten both slip nuts.
Run Water and Check for Leaks
Turn your sink on full blast for a minute. Check beneath for any dripping or leaking around the new strainer seals. Tighten any areas seeping water.
And that’s it — a shiny new sink strainer installed in minutes! Be sure to give it a good rinse and scrub to remove any leftover manufacturing residue before using.
Common Problems and Solutions
While straightforward in most kitchen sinks, strainer replacements can sometimes hit snags. Here are some potential issues and fixes:
Strainer Doesn’t Fit Sink Hole
Solution: Verify you purchased the right size (diameter) strainer to match your sink drain hole. Return and exchange if needed. Adding extra plumber’s putty can sometimes help fill small gaps.
Strainer Won’t Tighten Properly
Solution: Make sure you are aligning threads correctly and not cross-threading. Apply teflon tape or pipe sealant to threads and retry. Replace strainer if damaged.
New Strainer Leaks from Flange Seal
Solution: Add more plumber’s putty around the flange and retighten. Or remove strainer and apply silicone sealant around flange instead before reinstalling.
Friction Ring Won’t Tighten
Solution: Try rubber jar opener for better grip. Wrap ring threads with teflon tape. Ensure you matched sink hole size; ring may be wrong diameter.
Clogged Kitchen Sink After Installation
Solution: Disconnect pipes and retrieve any dropped debris. Thoroughly clean all sink pipes and drains. Consider using a drain snake to clear clogs.
Rust Around New Stainless Steel Strainer
Solution: Remove strainer and clean sink hole area with abrasives. Apply antioxidant paste to metal surfaces before reinstalling strainer.
If you take care during strainer prep and installation, you can avoid most potential issues. But don’t hesitate to call in a professional if problems arise beyond your DIY skills.
Conclusion
Replacing a worn or damaged kitchen sink strainer is one of the handiest ways to refresh your sink’s appearance. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth strainer swap. Here are some key tips to remember:
- Measure your old sink strainer and buy an identical fit replacement
- Match your sink’s material and drain style when choosing
- Disconnect and prepare pipes and components carefully
- Apply plumber’s putty or silicone for a tight seal
- Check for leaks and tighten any seeping areas
With the right replacement strainer and some DIY dedication, you can breathe new life into your kitchen sink! The improvement will make all your dishwashing and food prep tasks much more pleasant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions homeowners have about replacing their kitchen sink strainers:
How long does it take to replace a kitchen sink strainer?
Replacing a kitchen sink strainer usually takes 15-30 minutes for the average DIYer. With practice, strainer replacement can be done in under 15 minutes.
Can I replace just the strainer basket, not the entire assembly?
The strainer basket is not designed to be replaced separately from the drain body. The entire assembly must be replaced as a unit for proper fit and sealing.
My strainer leaks – do I need a new gasket?
You may be able to stop a leaking strainer by replacing just the gasket. But often the drain body is also worn out and needs full replacement. Try a new gasket first before replacing entire strainer.
Can I reuse the existing strainer nut/ring when installing a new strainer?
It’s best to replace the entire strainer assembly including the retaining nut/ring for optimal function and sealing. Reusing an old, potentially corroded nut/ring could lead to leaks.
How do I clean my strainer properly?
Remove the basket and use a toothbrush with baking soda and vinegar to scrub the basket and drain. Rinse thoroughly. Soak in vinegar periodically to prevent buildup and odor.
Can I just seal around my strainer instead of replacing it?
If your strainer is cracked or badly rusted/damaged, it needs full replacement. Re-sealing around it is only a temporary fix and won’t prevent issues long-term.
How often should kitchen sink strainers be replaced?
Expect to replace kitchen sink strainers every 5-10 years with regular use. Look for rust, corrosion, bent parts, and poor draining as signs it’s time for a new one.
What do I do if my strainer cross-threads when trying to install?
Never force a strainer that cross-threads. Remove it and start again, ensuring you are aligning it correctly. Damaging sink threads may require calling a plumber.
Why does my new strainer have a bad odor?
Wash new strainers thoroughly before installing. Soak in a vinegar solution for 15 minutes. Persistent odors could mean an issue with your drain pipes, not the new strainer.
Replacing a sink strainer is a straightforward task that most homeowners can tackle themselves. Follow this guide for smooth sailing and enjoy your refreshed kitchen sink!
