Is your bathtub not draining properly? Does water pool at your feet during a shower? Chances are, you’re dealing with a clogged drain plug or a worn-out stopper mechanism. To get to the root of the issue, you’ll first need to know how to remove a bathtub drain stopper safely and correctly.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of removing different types of bathtub drain stoppers, including toe touch, push-pull, lift and turn, and pop-up drain stoppers. We’ll also answer common questions like how to unscrew a drain plug, how to take a stopper out of a tub, and how to remove stuck tub drains.
Let’s dive into drain plug removal so you can get back to enjoying your bath—without the backup!
Why Isn’t My Bathtub Draining?
Before we jump into how to remove the drain stopper, let’s understand why this issue arises. Most of the time, the culprit is:
- Hair build-up
- Soap scum accumulation
- Damaged drain components
- A malfunctioning stopper mechanism
These problems often block water flow and require removing the bathtub drain plug to access and clean the drain thoroughly.
Types of Bathtub Drain Stoppers & How to Remove Them
Knowing your stopper type is essential before you take out the tub drain. Here are the most common bathtub drain mechanisms and how to get the stopper out of the bathtub for each one.
1. Toe Touch Drain Stopper Removal (Also Called Toe Tapper or Tip Toe Tub Drain)
The toe touch tub stopper opens and closes when pressed with your foot.
How to remove a toe touch drain stopper:
- Push the stopper into the open position.
- Turn the stopper counterclockwise to unscrew the cap. If it spins without coming off, hold the shaft beneath with pliers.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver to remove the internal screw.
- Lift the stopper out of the drain.
This method is ideal for those wondering how to remove a toe touch bathtub drain stopper or how to unscrew bath drain plugs.
2. Push-Pull Drain Stopper
This push and pull tub drain stopper opens by pulling up and closes when pushed down.
How to remove a push-pull drain stopper:
- Pull the stopper up into the open position.
- Hold the base and twist the knob counterclockwise to detach it.
- Use a screwdriver or pliers to unscrew the post underneath.
- Remove the stopper from the drain.
If you’re asking how to remove a push-pull drain stopper, this is your go-to method.
3. Lift-and-Turn Drain Stopper
These stoppers twist left or right to open and close and are a bit more complex.
How to remove a lift-and-turn tub drain:
- Place the stopper in the open position.
- If there’s a set screw under the knob, use a flashlight to locate it.
- Unscrew it using a flat-head screwdriver or Allen wrench.
- Once loose, twist and pull the stopper out.
If there’s no visible screw, twist the entire stopper counterclockwise until it detaches. This method is commonly used by DIYers searching for how to remove a lift-and-turn bathtub stopper or how to get drain stoppers out.
4. Pop-Up Bathtub Stopper
A pop-up bathtub drain plug can be tricky since it has internal linkages.
How to remove a pop-up drain in a bathtub:
- Set the stopper to the open position.
- Gently twist and pull the stopper straight up.
- If it doesn’t come out, use pliers to gently wiggle it side to side.
- Some versions require you to twist off the cap and then unscrew the internal post.
This technique works for both bathtub and shower drain plugs, and is useful if you’re looking for pop-up bathtub drain removal tips or how to take a drain stopper out of the tub.
Common FAQs About Removing Bathtub Drain Stoppers
How do I remove a stuck tub drain stopper?
If your bathtub stopper won’t unscrew, spray some penetrating oil around the edges and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, try gently prying it using a drain removal wrench or pliers.
How do I know which direction to turn the stopper screw?
Most bathtub drain stoppers use standard right-hand threads, so turn them counterclockwise to loosen and clockwise to tighten.
Can I use the same method to remove a sink drain plug?
Yes! If you’re wondering how to remove a sink drain plug or how to take off a bathroom sink stopper, the steps are similar, depending on the stopper style.
Don’t Want to DIY? Call the Drain Experts!
Removing a drain plug from a bathtub may sound simple—but some bathtub drain stopper removal jobs can become frustrating, especially when the drain plug is stuck, stripped, or the internal mechanism is damaged.
That’s where we come in.
At plumbing amarillo, we specialize in:
- Bathtub drain removal
- Clogged drain cleaning
- Shower drain plug replacement
- Drain plug repairs & replacements
- Emergency drain unclogging
We serve Amarillo, Texas, with fast, affordable, and professional plumbing services. If your bathtub isn’t draining, let us diagnose the issue and get your bathroom back in working order—without the mess!
Final Thoughts: Get That Tub Draining Again
Knowing how to remove a bathtub drain stopper is an essential home maintenance skill. Whether you’re facing a slow drain or just replacing the old plug, this guide gives you the full scoop—from how to unscrew the bathtub drain to how to remove stuck tub stoppers.
Still stuck? Don’t stress—call our expert plumbers today for professional assistance in all things bathtub drain related. We’ll handle the tub drain plug removal, clean the blockage, and install a brand-new stopper if needed.
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Contact us now to schedule your service!
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