## How to Remove a Kitchen Sink Shower Rod
A shower rod in the kitchen sink can be a handy way to hang dishcloths, sponges, and other cleaning supplies. However, they can also become rusty, dirty, or simply outdated. If you’re looking to remove your kitchen sink shower rod, follow these steps.
### Materials You’ll Need:
* Adjustable wrench
* Phillips head screwdriver
* Putty knife or flathead screwdriver
* Flashlight (optional)
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**1. Shut Off the Water Supply:**
Before you start working, turn off the water supply to your kitchen sink. This will prevent water from spraying everywhere when you remove the shower rod.
**2. Remove the End Caps:**
Locate the end caps on the shower rod. These are usually small, plastic or metal caps that cover the ends of the rod. Use a flathead screwdriver or putty knife to gently pry off the end caps.
**3. Loosen the Tension Screws:**
Inside the end caps, you will find tension screws. These screws are used to tighten and loosen the shower rod. Use an adjustable wrench to turn the tension screws counterclockwise until they are completely loose.
**4. Remove the Shower Rod:**
Once the tension screws are loose, you can remove the shower rod. Gently pull the rod towards you to remove it from the sink.
**5. Clean the Sink:**
Once the shower rod is removed, take the opportunity to clean the sink. Use a sponge or cloth with warm, soapy water to wipe down the area where the shower rod was located.
**6. Inspect the Mounting Brackets:**
In some cases, the shower rod may be mounted to brackets on the sink. If this is the case, you will need to remove these brackets as well. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the brackets in place.
**7. Remove the Old Sealant:**
If there is any old sealant around the base of the brackets or on the sink itself, use a putty knife or flathead screwdriver to carefully remove it. This will help prevent water leaks when you install a new shower rod (if desired).
### Additional Tips:
* Use a flashlight to help you see inside the sink and locate the tension screws.
* Be careful not to overtighten the tension screws when you re-install the shower rod. This can cause the rod to bend or break.
* If you are having difficulty removing the shower rod, you may need to apply some penetrating oil to the tension screws.
* If you are replacing the shower rod, be sure to choose one that is the correct size and style for your sink.
### Troubleshooting:
* **Can’t loosen the tension screws:** If the tension screws are rusted or corroded, you may need to use a pair of pliers to grip them. Apply some penetrating oil to the screws and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen them.
* **Shower rod won’t slide out:** If the shower rod is stuck in place, try gently tapping it with a hammer. You can also try using a putty knife or flathead screwdriver to pry the rod loose.
* **Water is leaking from the sink:** If water is leaking from the sink after you remove the shower rod, check to make sure that the mounting brackets are properly sealed. You may need to apply a new bead of sealant around the brackets to stop the leak.