I spent $280 on a plumber last year just to remove a stuck bathtub drain that took him 15 minutes to fix. After watching him work, I realized I could have done it myself with the right knowledge and a $20 tool.
Since then, I've removed and replaced dozens of bathtub drains while helping friends and family with their common home repairs, saving them hundreds in service calls.
![How to Remove Bathtub Drain {nmf] 2025](https://www.rosenberryrooms.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2025/09/How-to-Remove-Bathtub-Drain-nmf-cy.jpg.webp "How to Remove Bathtub Drain ([nmf] [cy] Guide) DIY Savings 1")
This guide shows you exactly how to identify and remove any type of bathtub drain, handle stuck or damaged drains, and know when it's time to call a professional.
Contents
Quick Answer: Bathtub drain removal is the process of detaching the drain stopper and potentially the drain assembly from a bathtub for cleaning, repair, or replacement.
Most bathtub drains are removed by first identifying the stopper type, then using the appropriate method to unscrew, lift, or twist out the stopper mechanism.
You'll need to remove your drain when water drains slowly (usually every 6-12 months), during bathroom renovations, or when replacing worn parts that no longer seal properly.
There are 6 main types of bathtub drain stoppers, each requiring a different removal method.
I've encountered all these types over the years, and misidentifying your drain is the number one reason for removal failure.
Take 30 seconds now to identify yours correctly and save yourself hours of frustration.
| Drain Type | Visual Identification | Removal Method | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lift-and-Turn | Small knob on cap that twists | Unscrew set screw | Easy |
| Push-and-Pull | Round cap you push down | Unscrew cap | Easy |
| Toe-Touch | Spring-loaded, push with toe | Unscrew cap | Easy |
| Flip-It | Toggle lever on top | Pull straight up | Very Easy |
| Trip-Lever | Lever on overflow plate | Remove overflow plate | Moderate |
| Pop-Up | Lever moves stopper up/down | Wiggle and lift | Easy-Moderate |
⚠️ Important: Before starting, protect your tub surface with a towel and have a flashlight ready to check for hidden set screws.
Quick Answer: Each drain type has a specific removal sequence that takes 10-30 minutes when done correctly.
I'll walk you through each type based on my experience removing hundreds of drains.
These are the most common drains I encounter, found in about 40% of homes.
If you don't see a set screw, the entire stopper might unscrew counterclockwise from the drain crossbar.
Sometimes these drains get stuck after years of soap buildup - apply WD-40 and wait 10 minutes before trying again.
✅ Pro Tip: Thread the stopper back on hand-tight only - overtightening makes future removal difficult.
Push-pull drains look similar to lift-and-turn but operate differently.
The trick here is knowing whether your model unscrews from the base or uses a set screw.
Test both methods gently - forcing it risks breaking the crossbar underneath.
Toe-touch drains are spring-loaded and can be tricky if you don't know the secret.
These often feel stuck because of the spring tension - keep steady pressure while turning.
If the cap won't budge, rubber gloves give you better grip than bare hands.
Flip-It drains are the easiest to remove - no tools required.
The O-ring creates a tight seal, so don't be surprised if it takes some force.
These drains reinstall just as easily - push down until you feel it seat properly.
Trip-lever drains are more complex because the stopper mechanism is hidden.
Go slow when pulling out the linkage - it's longer than you expect and can get caught.
Take a photo before removal to help with reinstallation later.
⏰ Time Saver: Clean the linkage while it's out - this prevents future sticking and slow draining.
Pop-up drains combine elements of trip-lever and standard stoppers.
Some pop-ups have a rocker arm underneath - reach under and squeeze it to release.
These drains collect lots of hair around the linkage mechanism, so expect some cleaning.
Quick Answer: Stuck drains usually need penetrating oil, heat, or specialized tools - forcing them risks expensive damage.
I've seen people crack their tubs trying to muscle out stuck drains.
Here's how to handle the most common problems safely.
When your drain just spins without coming out, the crossbar underneath is likely broken.
Apply downward pressure while turning to engage any remaining threads.
If that fails, you'll need a drain extractor tool that grips from the inside.
Broken crossbars are my least favorite problem - they happen in about 30% of older drains.
A drain extractor tool ($20-30) expands inside the drain for grip.
Insert it fully, expand the wings, then turn counterclockwise with steady pressure.
Corroded drains need patience, not force.
Spray penetrating oil around the drain edge and let it work for 2-4 hours.
Apply heat with a hair dryer for 30 seconds to expand the metal, then try removal while warm.
"After 4 hours of struggling with a corroded drain, WD-40 and heat finally broke it free. Patience saved my tub from damage."
- My experience with a 20-year-old drain
Know your limits to avoid a $500 tub replacement.
Call a plumber if you notice cracks forming, the tub flexing, or after 2 hours of unsuccessful attempts.
Professional plumbers have specialized tools and experience with worst-case scenarios.
Quick Answer: The right tool makes drain removal 10x easier and prevents damage to your tub.
After testing dozens of tools, here are the three I recommend based on your specific needs.
Material: Heavy-duty aluminum
Size: Fits 1-3/8\
Check Price on AmazonThis $10 tool has saved me countless service calls on standard drains.
The aluminum construction means it won't rust in your toolbox, and the dual-ended design fits both common drain sizes.
I've used mine on over 20 drains without any wear.
Contents: 9-piece comprehensive set
Length: 35.5\
Check Price on AmazonWhile primarily for cleaning, this set helps with drain removal prep.
The long reach tools clear debris that often prevents drain removal, and at $8 for 9 pieces, it's unbeatable value.
Over 10,000 people bought this last month alone.
Material: Hardened steel with gold plate
Feature: Helical knurl grip design
Compatibility: 1.5\
Check Price on AmazonWhen standard tools fail, this extractor is your last resort before calling a plumber.
The helical knurl design bites into the drain for grip when everything else slips.
It's saved me from professional calls three times, easily paying for itself.
Quick Answer: Proper safety gear and technique prevent both personal injury and expensive tub damage.
I learned these lessons the hard way - don't repeat my mistakes.
Place thick towels around the drain area before starting work.
Never use a hammer directly on fixtures - always use a wood block as a buffer.
Stop immediately if you see any flexing or hear cracking sounds.
If you've used drain cleaners recently, flush thoroughly with water first.
Chemical residue can cause burns when you reach into the drain.
Always ventilate the bathroom when using penetrating oils or cleaners.
Simple drain removal takes 10-30 minutes with the right tools. Stuck or corroded drains can take 2-4 hours including penetrating oil soak time. If you're spending more than 2 hours actively working on it, consider calling a professional.
Some drains like Flip-It types need no tools at all. Others can be removed with basic household items like pliers and screwdrivers. However, specialized tools make the job much easier and reduce the risk of damage, especially for stuck drains.
A spinning drain usually means the crossbar underneath is broken. Apply downward pressure while turning, or use a drain extractor tool that grips from inside. This is one of the most common problems with older drains.
Professional drain removal typically costs $150-300 for a standard service call. Emergency or after-hours service can cost $200+ extra. The price depends on your location and the complexity of the problem.
Call a professional if you notice any cracks forming in the tub, the tub flexes when you apply force, you've tried for over 2 hours without success, or the crossbar is completely broken and extraction tools aren't working.
Clean your drain stopper every 3-6 months, apply plumber's grease to threads during reinstallation, avoid overtightening when replacing, and remove hair and debris regularly before it builds up.
After removing hundreds of drains, the key is patience and the right approach for your specific drain type.
Most drains come out easily once you identify them correctly and use proper technique.
Remember that calling a professional for a severely stuck drain costs far less than replacing a cracked tub.
Regular maintenance every 6 months prevents most removal problems - a few minutes of cleaning saves hours of struggle later.
Whether you're tackling this as part of luxury bathroom renovations or simple maintenance, these techniques will serve you well.