I accidentally dropped a small screw from a pan handle into my garbage disposal, and now it's stuck. I've tried using an allen wrench underneath to manually rotate it, but all I'm managing to do is roll the screw around a bit without getting a good grip to pull it out. I'd love to avoid taking the whole disposal apart if I can! Any creative solutions out there?
3 Answers
If you can get the screw a bit loose, try using a vacuum wand with a sock over the end. The sock should give you some extra grip and suction to pull that screw right out. I've done something similar to retrieve an earring I dropped in mine, and it worked pretty well! Just make sure everything is dry before you try this.
You might want to try using wooden skewers to push it out gently. Another option is to wrap some duct tape around a screwdriver to see if you can grip it better. Just be careful, as I know it's a bit tricky since you mentioned it’s not moving freely!
First off, definitely unplug the disposal before you try to do anything! You can disconnect it and remove it from under the sink. Take out the rubber baffle on top for better access. That should help you reach that screw better with needle nose pliers. Just remember to clean it up well before putting it back together!
Thanks for the tips! I'll definitely have to be careful, as it seems to just keep getting lodged back in place when I try to torque it.