Step 1 · Prepare and Remove Old Strainer

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.

Start by clearing everything out from under the sink to give yourself ample workspace. Place a bucket directly beneath the P-trap to catch any water that will spill out. Use channel-type pliers to loosen the slip nuts connecting the tailpiece to the basket strainer and the P-trap. Once loose, disconnect the tailpiece and set it aside. Next, use the pliers or a strainer locknut wrench to loosen and remove the large locknut holding the old strainer to the underside of the sink. You may need a helper to hold the strainer from above with a screwdriver or pliers to prevent it from spinning. Once the locknut is off, push the old strainer up and out of the sink.