Types of Bathtub Drains
Determine what kind of tub drain you have before you tackle a drain repair or replacement project.
- Foot Lock: A tub drain that you push down with your foot to open or close.
- Roller Ball: A tub drain with a plug that pushes down to hold water and pulls up to release it.
- Lift and Turn: A tub drain with a plug that you lift and turn in opposite directions to open or close.
- Pop-Up: A tub drain with a trip lever (a separate metal piece on the wall of the tub under the water spout) that opens and closes the drain by moving the lever up or down.
Learn how to unclog a bathtub drain to keep your bathtub drain running smoothly.
How to Fix Foot Lock and Rollerball Bathtub Drains
Learning how to take off bathtub drain or repairing it should be easy if you're fortunate enough to have one of these types of drains. To remove the plug from a foot lock (aka a toe-touch drain) or rollerball tub drain, simply rotate the plug counterclockwise until it's free of the drain. Install the new bathtub drain replacement per the package instructions or clean the plug with a mild cleaning solution or vinegar and reinstall.
How to Fix Lift and Turn Bathtub Drains
You can often remove a lift and turn plug by loosening a set screw.
How to Fix a Pop-Up Bathtub Drain
These drains have moving parts that may need cleaning and lubrication.
Bathtub Drain FAQs
What Can You Use as a Substitute For a Drain Removal Tool?
A pair of needle-nose pliers is the next best thing to a drain removal tool. Just make sure they are small enough to reach down into the drain. You can then use a pair of standard pliers to turn the needle-nose pliers to loosen the drain.
How Do I Clean My Bathtub Drain?
If your bathtub is draining slowly, your drain may be clogged. Pour a cup of hot water down the drain followed by a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Cover the drain with the drain plug or a washcloth and wait 10 to 15 minutes. The mixture will bubble and should dissolve anything clogging your drain. Flush with more hot water. If the drain still isn’t working properly, it’s time to consult a professional.
How Do You Snake a Bathtub Drain?
You can either use a power snake, called an auger, or a manual snake. The snake gets inserted into the drain and has coils or serrated teeth to grab and remove the clog. Check out our article on unclogging drains for instructions and tips on how to use each one.
How Do I Replace a Bathtub Stopper?
There are several different types of bathtub drain stoppers, many of which use a similar removal method. There is usually a screw holding the drain stopper in place. Once the screw is removed you can use pliers and a screwdriver to remove the drain stopper.