If you’ve ever dropped jewelry down a drain, you’re not alone. Although watching an earring or necklace disappear down a dark hole can be a disheartening experience, your valuable accessory isn’t lost forever. Before calling a plumber to save the day, try these tips to recover your lost items.

How to Rescue Jewelry From a Drain

1. Use a Grabbing Technique 

Consider using a multi-pronged tool from your kitchen to fish down the drain for heavier items like necklaces. Remember to pull up slowly; you don’t want the jewelry falling back down. 

You can also try attaching a magnet to a string or wire. Lower it down the drain and fish around for metal jewelry. This delicate process works best with shorter drains. Keep in mind that this method won’t grab real gold or silver. 

2. Remove the P Trap

When jewelry goes down the drain, try quickly recovering it through the P trap. The P trap is a component in sink and bathroom pipes that stops sewer gases from entering the home. It’s also perfect for catching small objects. 

Immediately turn off the water so that the pressure doesn’t force the jewelry further into the pipes. Locate the P trap under the sink and use a wrench to loosen the slip nuts on each end. Disconnect the pipe and see if your accessory is inside. If you’re unable to recover the item, or the P trap is located behind a wall, contact a plumber for help. 

3. Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum 

A wet/dry vacuum can safely filter both liquids and solids. It’s ideal for clearing drains, especially in showers and tubs. Remove the drain top to make room for the vacuum’s hose and attachments.

When using the wet setting, the initial suction may be enough to secure your jewelry. If the item isn’t caught in the hose, turn off the vacuum and check the inside filter. Small jewelry may be sucked in with other debris.

If you’re not comfortable digging around in your drains, contact the specialists at Dave's Cooling Heating & Plumbing. Servicing the Staunton, VA, community since 1984, these plumbers provide a variety of services, from repairing leaky faucets to installing new water heaters. Call (540) 942-4357 or visit them online to check out their services.