Last updated April 2026

How to Remove a Kitchen Sink: Step-by-Step Guide

Remove your old kitchen sink safely — then haul it away or call Umuve.

Quick Answer

Kitchen sink removal requires turning off the water supply lines (under the sink), disconnecting the drain trap and garbage disposal if present, and lifting the sink out of the countertop. Stainless sinks can be donated to Habitat ReStore if in good condition. Cast iron sinks sell for $20-$80 at scrap metal yards. Umuve removes old sinks for $89.

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In This Guide

1. Step-by-Step Instructions2. Tools You Need3. Disposing of the Old Item4. Skip the DIY: Book Umuve

Step-by-Step: How to Remove a Kitchen Sink: Step-by-Step Guide

1

Turn off water supply valves

Under the sink are two shut-off valves (hot and cold). Turn both clockwise until fully closed. Turn on the faucet to release any pressure and drain remaining water from the lines.

2

Disconnect the supply lines

Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the braided supply lines from both the shut-off valves and the faucet connections underneath. Have a towel ready — residual water will spill.

3

Disconnect the garbage disposal (if present)

Turn off the disposal at the wall switch and unplug it from the outlet under the sink. Most disposals twist off a mounting ring — turn counterclockwise. Support the weight as it releases.

4

Remove the drain trap (P-trap)

The curved pipe under the sink drain connects to the wall drain. Unscrew both slip nuts (hand-tighten only — use pliers if stuck) and pull the P-trap away. Water will spill — have your bucket ready.

5

Disconnect the drain basket

From under the sink, unscrew the drain basket locknut with a locknut wrench or pliers. Once loosened, the basket can be pushed up and out from above.

6

Remove mounting clips or brackets

Undermount sinks are held by mounting clips along the rim. Loosen the screws on each clip. Drop-in sinks may have clips or simply rest in a caulked cutout.

7

Cut the caulk bead

Run a utility knife around the entire perimeter of the sink rim where it meets the countertop. Cut through all the caulk to prevent tearing the countertop when lifting.

8

Lift out the sink

For drop-in sinks: push up from below and lift from above simultaneously. For undermount sinks: lower carefully once mounting clips are removed. Cast iron sinks can weigh 100-300 lbs — get help.

Disposing of the Removed Item

Sink disposal options: (1) Stainless or cast iron sinks with scrap value go to scrap metal yards ($5-$80 depending on weight); (2) Porcelain sinks in excellent condition to Habitat ReStore; (3) County transfer station C&D drop-off; (4) Umuve pickup from $89 for a sink plus any other renovation debris.

Skip the DIY: Let Umuve Handle It

If you would rather not deal with the disconnection, the heavy lifting, or the disposal logistics, Umuve handles everything start to finish — same-day, starting at $89. We carry from anywhere in your home, load, haul, and recycle or donate responsibly.

Book Same-Day Service Call (561) 944-1636

Service available in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and all of South Florida.

Related Guides

Renovation Debris Disposal Guide How to Remove a Toilet How to Remove Drywall How to Dispose of Appliances Junk Removal Cost Guide (South Florida)

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