How to Unlock (Almost) Any Bottle Pump

In this video I show you how to unlock two different kinds of bottle pumps. The first type of pump is a "lock-up" type and the second one is a "lock-down" type.

What is a lock-up bottle pump?

Lock-up pumps are basically pumps that don't change height when they're locked and unlocked. They simple twist to lock and unlock.

What is a lock-down bottle pump?

Lock-down pumps are those that pop up when they're unlocked. They essentially have a built-in screw on the neck that, when locked, prevents the pump from moving up and down.

How do I unlock my bottle pump?

There are two different ways to unlock a pump on a bottle.

The first way is your best first option if you've already filled your bottle with contents, or it came filled with contents.

Basically, the second way will be messier.

Method 1

So, in the first method, you need to tighten the closure onto the bottle as tightly as you can with your hand strength only.

Do not use tools to tighten.

Then, twist the head of the bottle pump in whichever direction it moves easily. 

Some pumps will unlock in a clockwise direction and others will be counter-clockwise.

Make this twisting motion until you either hear a click and can pump the pump head up and down easily or (if your pump is "down-locking") until you see the pump head pop up.

Method 2

If you can't seem to get the first method to work, this method should resolve your problem. It just may get a little messy if your bottle is already filled.

First, remove the pump from the bottle completely.

Then, wipe off any contents from the pump enclosure (the large part of the tube that goes inside the bottle).

While holding the enclosure in one hand, twist the bottle pump with your other hand until either it clicks and can be pressed easily or (if you have a "down-locking" pump) it pops up.

Want to see both methods in action (video)?

Watch my video here:

What if I need to Find a Replacement Pump for My Bottle?

If you're looking for a replacement pump, and you're not sure what size or threading you need, I have lots of resources for you, both free and paid resources.

Here are my two FREE resources:

1. In this article, I show you how the information you need in order to Find the Right Replacement Pump for Your Bottle so you can purchase the correct pump the first time. I also discuss what all the different types of bottle pumps are, what they are good for, and what to look out for when buying.
2. On these pages, I give you some recommendations for the Best Replacement Pumps for Bottles based on my own research, experience and knowledge of bottles and threads. I provide both retail and wholesale recommendations by threading, function and overall aesthetic. Check it out!
   

Here are my two PAID resources:

1. If you don't know what the threading is on your bottle and you think it's a fairly common size, you can use my Bottle Thread Testing Kit to figure out which threading you have. The kit contains caps in the threading dimensions most commonly used in household bottles, and they're labeled by thread dimensions so you'll always know which thread you have.
2. If you're often frustrated trying to find bottle thread sizes, or you may have one that's uncommon, or you run a business that needs replacement pumps frequently, you will want to know how to measure these threads yourself. I've written a Complete Guide to Measuring, Finding & Buying the Right Bottle Pumps. In this guide, I walk you through, step by step, how to measure your threads accurately, where you can find good replacements, what to look out for, and even some alternate solutions when you can't find anything that fits. This guide is for the person who is tired of relying on incomplete listings and wants to be knowledgeable about bottles and threads.