Step #3: Clean Sink and Strainer
Use a putty knife or abrasive pad to remove any hardened plumber’s putty from around the strainer opening inside the sink. Follow this with a damp sponge and dishwashing liquid to remove any remaining putty reside or grime around the strainer opening in the sink.
If you’re reusing the existing strainer, clean the underside of it thoroughly as well. On new strainers, wipe off the underside of the strainer with a cloth or paper towel.
This web site is very helpful.
great information. just what I needed
I removed excess putty from the bottom of the sink opening and strainer. However as I tightened the locknut washer some putty eventually came out between the sink and the top of the rubber gasket… when I used less of the putty (an earlier attempt) there wasn’t enough and water eventually leaked from that area. This might fail, too. Frustrating.
Katherine,
Plumber’s putty should squeeze out all around the sink strainer when you tighten up the locknut. A little of the putty may continue to ooze out for a time, but it can be easily wiped off.
Yes, I understand the putty squeezing out around the top of the strainer, but should any come out under the sink, around the gasket(s)?
Katherine,
Putty didn’t squeeze out around the gasket under the sink when I replaced mine, but it should still seal OK if it does.
you have to be more careful when you are removing or changing sink strainer. Thank you for this article.
More videos instead of words—example—kitchen sink strainer