How to Replace a Drop-In Sink

Replacing a drop-in kitchen sink might sound like a job for a contractor, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, many homeowners can tackle it themselves. Whether your current sink is worn out, rusting, or just doesn’t fit your style anymore, swapping in a new drop-in sink can give your kitchen an instant refresh—without a full remodel.

The process starts with preparation. Before removing anything, it’s important to shut off the water supply and disconnect the plumbing underneath. You’ll want to place a bucket under the drain trap to catch any leftover water and take a picture of the plumbing layout to help with reconnection later. Once that’s done, you can loosen the clips or mounting brackets holding the old sink in place, then carefully cut through any caulk sealing the sink to the countertop. With a bit of wiggling, the old drop-in sink should lift straight out.

Once removed, take the time to clean the countertop surface thoroughly—old sealant, grime, and residue should all be cleared to give your new sink a proper fit. Check the fit of your new drop-in sink before adding any caulk or sealant. If the size matches and it sits flush, apply a bead of silicone caulk around the rim of the opening. Gently lower your new sink into place, pressing it down evenly to create a tight seal. From underneath, use the included mounting clips or brackets to lock it down securely.

Next comes reconnecting the plumbing—reattach the drain, garbage disposal (if you have one), and faucet lines in the same order you removed them. This is where that earlier photo of your setup comes in handy. After everything is secured, turn the water back on and test for leaks. Wipe away any excess caulk from the edges and let everything dry according to the sealant instructions.

At I Hate My Sink, we believe small upgrades can make a huge difference in how you experience your kitchen. Replacing a drop-in sink is one of the most impactful DIY changes you can make—not just for aesthetics, but for everyday functionality. If you run into trouble during the process, or if you’d rather leave it to the pros, we’re always here to help. But for many, this is a manageable weekend project that leaves you with a cleaner, fresher kitchen in just a few hours.

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