Discovered Metal Balls Under Your Kitchen Sink? Here’s What They Are and How to Handle Them

Finding strange objects in your home can be surprising—especially when they appear in hidden spots like the cabinet under your kitchen sink. If you recently discovered tiny metal beads while cleaning, you’re probably wondering how they got there and whether it signals a plumbing disaster.

The good news? This is a common issue with a simple explanation. Let’s dive into why those metal balls are under your sink and how to fix it quickly.

The Mystery Solved: It’s Probably Your Faucet

If you’re asking, “Where did they come from?” the answer is likely right above your head. Many modern kitchens have pull-out or pull-down faucets. These faucets are great for rinsing dishes and reaching every corner, but they rely on a small mechanical part that can fail over time.

The Real Culprit: Your Faucet’s Retractable Hose Weight

To make sure the spray head snaps back after use, manufacturers attach a counterweight to the hose under the sink. Inside many of these weights are hundreds of tiny metal ball bearings or “steel shot,” which give the weight enough mass to pull the hose down using gravity.

When the outer shell of the weight cracks or breaks, those little balls spill out—creating the “mystery” you found.

Why Do the Metal Balls Fall Out?

You might be thinking, “I didn’t put them there!” Here are common reasons:

• Repeated Use: Pulling the faucet head up and down constantly can wear the plastic casing thin.
• Moisture & Rust: Under-sink areas are humid. Water exposure can rust the balls inside, causing them to expand and crack the housing.
• Physical Impact: Bumping the weight with a cleaner bottle or trash bin can split it open.

How to Confirm the Problem

Before calling a plumber, look for these signs:

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