How to Remove a Bathtub Drain Stopper

## Types of Bathtub Drain Stoppers Before beginning, identify your drain stopper type: 1. **Toe-Touch Stopper**: Operated by pressing down with your toe 2. **Lift-and-Turn Stopper**: Requires lifting and turning to open/close 3. **Push-and-Pull Stopper**: Similar to lift-and-turn but with different mechanism 4. **Trip Lever Stopper**: Operated by a lever on the overflow plate 5. **Pop-Up Stopper**: Common in sinks but also found in tubs 6. **Flip-It Stopper**: Simplest type that pulls straight up ## Required Tools * Flathead or Phillips screwdriver * Pliers * Wrench * Drain wrench or smart dumbbell tool * Flashlight * Penetrating oil (like [WD-40](https://www.wd40.com/)) * Clean rag * Bucket or container for water ## Removal Instructions by Type ### Lift-and-Turn Stopper 1. Open the stopper to lifted position 2. Locate the set screw on the knob or beneath stopper 3. Unscrew it counterclockwise with appropriate screwdriver 4. Lift the entire assembly out ### Push-Pull Stopper 1. Pull stopper to open position 2. Hold stopper cap firmly 3. Twist counterclockwise while pulling up 4. Remove entire mechanism from strainer ### Trip Lever Stopper 1. Remove the overflow plate screws 2. Pull out the plate and attached linkage 3. The plunger will come out with the linkage 4. Clean or replace as needed ### Toe-Touch Stopper 1. Ensure stopper is in open position 2. Unscrew cap using fingers or flathead screwdriver 3. Remove cylinder beneath cap > Always place a rag over your drain while working to prevent dropping small parts down the pipe. ## Tips for Success - **Use proper lighting**: A flashlight helps locate small screws and mechanisms - **Be gentle**: Avoid excessive force to prevent damage - **Organize parts**: Keep screws and components in a safe place - **Document process**: Take photos during disassembly for reference - **Clean thoroughly**: Remove hair and debris before reinstallation - **Check seals**: Inspect rubber seals for wear - **Apply lubricant**: Use plumber's grease on moving parts ## Troubleshooting If the stopper is stuck: * Apply penetrating oil around edges * Wait 15-20 minutes * Try twisting while pulling up * Use pliers with cloth to protect finish ## When to Call a Professional Consider contacting a licensed plumber if: - The stopper is severely corroded - You can't identify the stopper type - The mechanism appears damaged - You encounter leaks after reinstallation For more detailed guides and visual aids, visit: - [Family Handyman](https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-remove-a-bathtub-drain/?srsltid=AfmBOoqHtG54g8JDQ2exxnFa0zdZ-AjqDMi5WL0klILpcSbFXlj6T-0a) - [This Old House](https://www.thisoldhouse.com/plumbing/22850246/replacing-bath-tub-drain) - [PlumbingSupply.com's guide](https://www.plumbingsupply.com/drain-stoppers.html)

How to Remove a Bathtub Drain Stopper

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