How the Mechanism Works (And Why Yours Might Stick)
If you’ve ever tried to press the knob on one of these and it barely moves, you’re not alone.
Most of them eventually get “gummed up” from residue, moisture, and plain old time.
Inside, there’s usually a rotating scoop/plate on a pivot.
When you press or twist, the plate moves like a trap door, pushing the contents into the lower section.
That’s why you’ll often see:
- Brown staining around the inner ring
- A gritty feel when the knob turns
- A stuck mechanism that won’t fully rotate
- A faint smell that never fully goes away
If You Found One and Want to Clean It
Skip anything aggressive that scratches metal or ruins plating.
Instead, go practical:
- Empty the lower chamber outside (yes, outside).
- Soak removable parts in warm water with dish soap.
- Use a soft brush (old toothbrush) around the moving ring.
- Dry fully to avoid rusting the internal mechanism.
If it still sticks, it’s often because the internal parts are corroded or clogged beyond an easy fix.
Which leads to the question people always ask next…
Read more on the next page ⬇️⬇️⬇️
