Need to remove your bathtub drain stopper but not sure where to start? Our easy guide on how to remove a bathtub drain stopper will walk you through the process step-by-step, making it simple to tackle this common home repair.

If you’ve ever faced a slow-draining bathtub or dealt with a stuck stopper, you know how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, removing a bathtub drain stopper is a pretty straightforward DIY task that doesn’t require calling a plumber (or spending unnecessary cash). Whether you're replacing the stopper, cleaning out gunk, or troubleshooting a clog, understanding how to remove the drain stopper is a must.

In this How to Remove a Bathtub Drain Stopper: Easy Guide, we’ll break down each type of stopper, walk you through the removal process, and give you the tips you need to handle this project like a pro. So, let’s dive in—pun intended!

Types of Bathtub Drain Stoppers

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of removing a bathtub drain stopper, it’s important to identify which type of stopper you’re dealing with. Different stoppers have different removal methods, so knowing which one is installed in your tub is crucial.

Common Types of Bathtub Drain Stoppers:

Lift-and-Turn Stopper: A Lift-and-Turn stopper is a widely used drain stopper, known for its simplicity and ease of use. It has a small knob on top that you lift and rotate to open or close the drain. Commonly found in bathroom sinks and bathtubs, this type of stopper allows for quick control of water flow. Its user-friendly design makes it a popular choice for homeowners seeking both functionality and convenience in their fixtures.
Push-and-Pull Stopper: A Push-and-Pull stopper operates much like a lift-and-turn stopper but with an even simpler mechanism. Instead of twisting, you simply push it down to close the drain and pull it up to open it. This intuitive design is popular for both sinks and bathtubs, offering effortless control of water flow. Its sleek, modern look, combined with its easy-to-use functionality, makes it a convenient, hassle-free option for homeowners seeking simplicity and style.
Toe-Touch Stopper: A Toe-Touch stopper is a spring-loaded drain stopper that opens and closes with a tap of your toe. Simply press down to close the drain, and another press pops it up to open. This hands-free design is ideal for bathtubs, offering both convenience and a sleek, modern look.
Flip-It Stopper: A Flip-It stopper features a convenient toggle switch that lets you control the drain by flipping it back and forth. With no installation tools required, it's a user-friendly option for sinks and bathtubs. Simply flip the switch to open or close the drain, offering an efficient and practical solution for managing water flow.
Trip Lever Stopper: A Trip Lever stopper is controlled by a lever on the bathtub’s overflow plate, which moves a plunger or pop-up stopper to open or close the drain. Commonly found in bathtubs, this hands-free mechanism provides easy water flow control with a simple flick of the lever. Its hidden design keeps the tub looking clean and uncluttered.

Now that you’ve identified your stopper type, let’s get into the how to remove a bathtub drain stopper steps!

How to Remove a Bathtub Drain Stopper: Easy Guide

1. How to Remove a Lift-and-Turn Stopper

The lift-and-turn stopper is common in many households, and fortunately, it’s pretty easy to remove.

Steps:

Set the Stopper in the Open Position: To set the stopper in the open position, turn or adjust it until it's fully open, allowing water to flow freely down the drain. This ensures the stopper no longer blocks the drain, making it perfect for emptying sinks or bathtubs. The method varies by stopper type, but the goal is the same: unobstructed drainage.
Find the Set Screw: To find the set screw, check just beneath the small knob on top of the stopper. This tiny screw secures the stopper in place and may be hard to spot, so a flashlight can help. Depending on the stopper type, you may need a small screwdriver to adjust or remove it. The set screw is crucial for maintaining the stopper’s functionality.
Loosen the Screw: To loosen the set screw, use a flathead or small Phillips screwdriver, depending on the type of screw. Turn the screw counterclockwise, but don’t remove it completely—just enough to lift and remove the stopper from the drain. This allows for easy cleaning or replacement. Be careful to avoid stripping or damaging the screw by handling it gently during the process.
Remove the Stopper: After loosening the set screw, gently lift the stopper straight up and out of the drain. Be careful to avoid damaging the drain or stopper mechanism during removal. If there’s resistance, ensure the set screw is loosened enough. Removing the stopper allows for easy cleaning, inspection, or replacement, fully opening the drain for maintenance or deeper cleaning of the drainage system.
Inspect the Stopper:With the stopper removed, carefully inspect it for any debris, hair, or buildup that may have contributed to a drain clog. Focus on the underside, where debris often accumulates, and check inside the drain for visible blockages. Cleaning this buildup can improve water flow and prevent future clogs. After inspection and cleaning, reinstall the stopper to restore proper drainage functionality.

2. How to Remove a Push-and-Pull Stopper

The push-and-pull stopper is just as simple to remove as the lift-and-turn.

Steps:

Pull the Stopper to the Open Position: To pull the stopper into the open position, lift or adjust it so that it no longer blocks the drain, allowing water to flow freely. This is especially important before performing any cleaning or maintenance. Ensuring the stopper is fully open guarantees proper drainage and confirms that it functions correctly when reinstalled after cleaning or repairs.
Twist the Stopper Counterclockwise: To remove the stopper, firmly grasp the top and twist it counterclockwise. It may take some effort, but with steady pressure, it should begin to unscrew from the base. Avoid applying too much force to prevent damage. Once unscrewed, the stopper can be fully removed, allowing access to the drain for cleaning or maintenance. If it's tight, gently wiggle it to loosen the threads.
Remove the Stopper: After unscrewing the stopper, lift it off the drain to access the area beneath. Inspect both the stopper and the drain opening for debris like hair or soap scum that may be causing blockages. Cleaning out these obstructions can significantly improve drainage. Use a small brush or tool to remove any buildup around the drain. Once the area is clean, you can reinstall or replace the stopper for optimal functionality.
Unscrew the Drain Flange (Optional): If needed, you can remove the drain flange for deeper cleaning or repairs. Using pliers or a tub drain wrench, carefully grip the flange and turn it counterclockwise until it loosens. Once unscrewed, lift it out of the drain to access the pipe below. This can help address clogs or leaks more effectively. Handle the flange gently to avoid damaging the drain or surrounding surfaces.

3. How to Remove a Toe-Touch Stopper

The toe-touch stopper is spring-loaded, which means you’ll need to remove both the stopper and its mechanism.

Steps:

Push the Stopper to the Open Position: To push the stopper into the open position, press down firmly until it pops up, allowing water to flow freely through the drain. If the stopper has a spring-loaded mechanism, it should easily shift with a gentle push. Ensuring the stopper is fully open is crucial for proper drainage, especially before cleaning or maintenance. Once in the open position, you can proceed with inspecting or adjusting the drain as needed.
Twist the Stopper Counterclockwise: To remove the stopper, twist it counterclockwise by hand until it loosens and unscrews from the drain. If it's too tight, gently use pliers for extra grip, taking care not to damage the finish. A steady, careful twist will help release the stopper. Once unscrewed, lift it out to access the drain for cleaning or maintenance, ensuring no harm is done to the fixture.
Remove the Stopper: After unscrewing the stopper, lift it out of the drain to fully remove it. You may notice a cylindrical post beneath, which controls the stopper's movement and can collect debris over time. Inspect this area for any buildup or obstructions that could hinder drainage. Cleaning the post and surrounding area will help maintain the drain’s efficiency and prevent future clogs.
Remove the Post: If applicable, carefully unscrew or pull out the cylindrical post attached to the bottom of the stopper. This post is part of the stopper mechanism and can collect debris over time. Once removed, you’ll have full access to the drain, allowing for easier cleaning or blockage removal. With the post and stopper out, inspect and clean any buildup before reassembling the components, ensuring improved water flow and proper maintenance.

4. How to Remove a Flip-It Stopper

The flip-it stopper is easy to remove but doesn’t require any tools.

Steps:

Flip the Stopper to the Open Position: To flip the stopper into the open position, use the toggle switch on top of the stopper. This switch lets you control the drain by flipping it back and forth. Move the switch to the "open" position, lifting the stopper and allowing water to flow freely. This step is essential for clearing the drain or preparing it for cleaning and maintenance. Once the stopper is open, you can proceed with any necessary adjustments or tasks.
Pull the Stopper Up: To remove the stopper, grasp it firmly by the toggle switch and pull it straight up and out of the drain. If there's resistance, gently wiggle the stopper while pulling to loosen it. Once removed, you'll have easy access to the drain for cleaning or inspection. This step allows you to clear any debris or buildup that may be causing blockages, ensuring smoother water flow and better overall maintenance.
Clean the Drain: After removing the stopper, inspect the drain for any debris, hair, or buildup that might be causing a blockage. Use a small tool or your fingers to carefully clear out any obstructions. Once the drain is clean, reinstall the stopper by pushing it back into place, ensuring it sits securely and functions properly. This will allow the stopper to open and close smoothly, improving performance and preventing future clogs.

5. How to Remove a Trip Lever Stopper

This stopper is a little more complex because it’s connected to a lever mechanism inside the overflow plate. There are two types of trip lever stoppers: the pop-up and the plunger-style.

For a Pop-Up Trip Lever:

Move the Lever to the Open Position: To move the lever to the open position, shift the trip lever on the bathtub's overflow plate to the “up” position. This opens the drain, allowing water to flow freely. The trip lever controls a plunger or stopper inside the drain, and moving it up ensures the drain is unblocked. This step is crucial for efficient drainage or preparing for maintenance, ensuring smooth water flow and proper functionality.
Pull the Stopper Out: To remove the stopper, grasp it firmly and lift it straight out of the drain. If it feels stuck, gently wiggle it to loosen any buildup or tight fit. Once removed, you’ll have clear access to the drain for cleaning or maintenance. This step is essential for clearing blockages or inspecting the drain for debris that may be affecting water flow, ensuring smoother drainage and easier maintenance.
Check the Linkage: If your drain uses a pop-up mechanism, check the linkage—the metal bars connecting the lever to the stopper. Ensure the linkage isn’t bent or broken, as this can impair the stopper’s functionality. A damaged linkage can prevent proper opening or closing of the stopper, leading to drainage problems. If you find any issues, adjust or replace the linkage to restore smooth operation and proper water flow.

For a Plunger-Style Trip Lever:

Remove the Overflow Plate: To remove the overflow plate, use a screwdriver to unscrew the metal cover located on the side of the tub. Once the screws are out, carefully pull the entire trip lever assembly, which includes the plunger, out of the drain. This assembly controls the flow of water and can become clogged or misaligned over time. Removing it allows you to inspect and clean the components for smoother operation. Be gentle to avoid damaging any parts, and set the screws aside for reinstallation later.
Clean the Plunger: Inspect the plunger, located inside the drain, for any debris, hair, or buildup that may be obstructing its movement. Gently clean the plunger and the surrounding area to ensure smooth operation. Once the plunger is clean, carefully slide it back into the overflow pipe, making sure it aligns properly. Reattach the overflow plate by securing the screws tightly, ensuring the trip lever functions as intended. Cleaning the plunger helps improve water flow and prevents future drainage issues.

Conclusion

Removing a bathtub drain stopper is easier than you might think, and it’s a simple DIY task that can save you both time and money. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain, cleaning out debris, or replacing a worn-out stopper, following this How to Remove a Bathtub Drain Stopper: Easy Guide will get you through the process quickly and efficiently.

With the right tools, a little patience, and a step-by-step approach, you’ll have your bathtub drain back in working order in no time. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to tackle that stubborn stopper—you’ve got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my bathtub draining slowly even after removing the stopper?

A slow-draining tub is often caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, or other debris in the pipes. After removing the stopper, use a drain snake or plunger to clear out the blockage.

Can I clean the drain without removing the stopper?

While it’s possible to clean a bathtub drain without removing the stopper, doing so can be difficult. Removing the stopper makes it easier to access and thoroughly clean the drain.

What if the stopper is stuck and won’t come out?

If the stopper won’t budge, try using a little lubricant like WD-40 around the base. If it’s still stuck, you may need to use pliers (wrapped in cloth to avoid scratches) or a specialized drain removal tool to get better leverage.

How often should I clean my bathtub drain stopper?

It’s a good idea to clean your drain stopper every few months, especially if you notice the tub draining more slowly than usual. Regular maintenance can help prevent clogs.

Can I replace my bathtub drain stopper if it's broken?

Yes, bathtub drain stoppers are easy to replace. Simply bring the old stopper to your local hardware store or search for the same model online. Once you’ve got a new one, installation is as simple as reversing the removal steps.