Every bathtub is equipped with a drain stopper to control the opening and closing of the drain. When the stopper is closed, you can enjoy a relaxing soak in hot water; when it’s open, wastewater can quickly drain from the tub. However, over time, you may notice a decline in drainage efficiency, often due to the stopper’s internal screen being clogged with hair, soap residue, or other debris. In more severe cases, internal components may become damaged, preventing the stopper from functioning properly and affecting the tub’s ability to hold water. Regardless of the issue, the solution is simple—remove the drain stopper and clean or replace it as needed.
Don’t worry—this process is straightforward and can be easily completed even if it’s your first time, usually taking about 30 minutes. It’s important to note that different bathtubs may use different types of drain stoppers, so before starting, identify the specific type of stopper in your tub to avoid improper handling.
To help you successfully remove your drain stopper, Giving Tree Home has compiled step-by-step instructions for 3 common types of bathtub drain stoppers. Let’s take a look!
What You’ll Need
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- New Drain Stopper (if needed)
- Bathroom Cleaner
For Lift-and-Turn Drain Stoppers
Step 1: Identify It
A lift-and-turn drain stopper operates using a simple screw mechanism, typically requiring manual rotation to open or close:
- Close: Rotate the stopper clockwise.
- Open: Rotate the stopper counterclockwise.
You can identify this type by checking if the stopper has a threaded knob on top.
Step 2: Remove the Knob
Most lift-and-turn stoppers have a separate knob on top, but some are designed as a single unit. If yours has a separate knob, simply twist it counterclockwise to remove it. If it’s a single unit, skip this step.
Step 3: Unscrew the Bolt
After removing the knob, you’ll see a bolt in the center. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the bolt and remove the stopper.
If it’s a single-unit design, rotate the entire cover to release it from the lock and remove the stopper.
For Push-Pull Drain Stoppers
Step 1: Identify It
Push-pull drain stoppers may look similar to lift-and-turn stoppers but operate differently:
- Close: Push the stopper down.
- Open: Pull the stopper up.
If your stopper has a threaded knob but operates by pushing and pulling, it’s a push-pull stopper.
Step 2: Remove the Knob
Most push-pull stoppers are single-unit designs, but some have separate knobs. If yours has a separate knob, twist it counterclockwise to remove it. If it’s a single unit, skip this step.
Step 3: Unscrew the Bolt
After removing the knob, locate the bolt in the center. Use a screwdriver to unscrew it and remove the stopper.
For single-unit designs, rotate the bolt to detach it from the crossbar, then lift the stopper out.
For Toe-Touch Drain Stoppers
Step 1: Identify It
Toe-touch stoppers are typically round and smooth, requiring only a light press to open or close:
- Close: Press down once.
- Open: Press down again.
If your stopper can be operated with your foot, it’s likely a toe-touch stopper.
Step 2: Open the Stopper
Toe-touch stoppers cannot be removed when closed, as this may compromise the seal. Ensure the stopper is open by pressing it down.
Step 3: Remove the Cap
Once open, grab the cap and gently lift it while twisting counterclockwise to remove it.
Step 4: Unscrew the Screw
Use a screwdriver or pliers to unscrew the fastener on the crossbar, then remove the stopper from the drainpipe.
Ending
Removing a bathtub drain stopper is a simple yet essential maintenance task that can restore your tub’s functionality and improve drainage efficiency. Whether you’re dealing with a lift-and-turn, push-pull, or toe-touch stopper, following these steps will help you complete the task quickly and easily.
At Giving Tree Home, we’re committed to helping you maintain and enhance your bathroom experience. If you need replacement stoppers or further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy DIY-ing!
