Step 2 · Loosen the Slip Nuts

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

Identify the two large slip nuts that hold the P-trap in place. One nut connects the trap to the sink's vertical tailpiece, and the other connects it to the horizontal pipe going into the wall (the trap arm). Attempt to loosen both nuts by turning them counter-clockwise (lefty-loosey) with your hands. If they are too tight, use a pair of channel-lock pliers. When using pliers on plastic nuts, it's a good practice to wrap a rag around the nut first to prevent the tool's teeth from scarring or damaging the plastic.