How to Remove Drain Stopper from Tub – challenges arise when faced with the task of removing the tub drain stopper. This brief prologue sets the stage for uncovering the mystery behind the different types of plugs. offers a glimpse of the steps that lead to successful duct cleaning.

From lift-and-rolls to pop-ups, each stopper presents its own puzzle to solve. this guide provides the key to remove it. Join an exploration of the world of bathtub maintenance, where simplicity meets strategy in dealing with the elusive drain clog.

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How to Remove Drain Stopper from Tub

Removing a drain stopper from a tub can vary depending on the tye of stopper you have. Here are general steps for five common types

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

• Identify the Stopper:
  • Recognize the lift-and-turn stopper by its design.
• Open the Drain:
  • Lift the stopper and turn it counterclockwise to open the drain fully.
• Look for Set Screw (if applicable):
  • Some lift-and-turn stoppers have a set screw on the knob. Check for a small screw and use a screwdriver to loosen and remove it.
• Twist and Lift:
  • Twist the stopper counterclockwise while lifting it. This action should unscrew the stopper from the drain.
• Inspect and Clean:
  • Once removed, inspect the stopper for any hair or debris. Clean it thoroughly to ensure smooth operation when reinstalled.
• Reassemble (if needed):
  • If any components were detached during the cleaning process, ensure they are securely reattached.
• Test the Drain:
  • Turn on the water to check that the drain flows freely without any obstructions.

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

• Identify the Stopper:
  • Recognize the push-and-pull stopper by its design.
• Open the Drain:
  • If the stopper is in the closed position, pull it up to open the drain fully.
• Inspect the Stopper:
  • Look for any visible screws, setscrews, or other mechanisms on the stopper. Some push-and-pull stoppers may have a screw that needs to be removed.
• Unscrew (if applicable):
  • If there is a screw, use a screwdriver to unscrew it. This may be located on the knob or beneath it.
• Twist and Lift or Pull:
  • Twist the stopper counterclockwise or lift it up, depending on the design.
• Inspect and Clean:
  • Once removed, inspect the stopper for any hair or debris. Clean it thoroughly to ensure smooth operation when reinstalled.
• Reassemble (if needed):
  • If any components were detached during the cleaning process, ensure they are securely reattached.
• Test the Drain:
  • Turn on the water to check that the drain flows freely without any obstructions.

3. How to Remove a Toe-Touch Drain Stopper

• Identify the Stopper:
  • Recognize the toe-touch stopper by its design.
• Inspect the Stopper:
  • Look for any visible screws, setscrews, or other mechanisms on the stopper. Some toe-touch stoppers may have a screw that needs to be removed.
• Unscrew (if applicable):
  • If there is a screw, use a screwdriver to unscrew it. This may be located on the top or sides of the stopper.
• Twist and Lift or Pull:
  • Depending on the design, you may need to twist the stopper counterclockwise or lift it up.
• Inspect and Clean:
  • Once removed, inspect the stopper for any hair or debris. Clean it thoroughly to ensure smooth operation when reinstalled.
• Reassemble (if needed):
  • If any components were detached during the cleaning process, ensure they are securely reattached.
• Test the Drain:
  • Turn on the water to check that the drain flows freely without any obstructions.

4. How to Remove a Pop-Up Drain Stopper

• Identify the Stopper:
  • Recognize the pop-up stopper by its design.
• Access the Overflow Plate:
  • Locate the overflow plate, which is the cover on the wall of the tub. The lever for the pop-up stopper is often connected to this plate.
• Remove the Screw (if applicable):
  • Some overflow plates have a visible screw. Use a screwdriver to unscrew and remove it.
• Lift or Slide the Overflow Plate:
  • Once the screw is removed, lift or slide the overflow plate away from the tub wall. This action should expose the linkage connected to the pop-up stopper.
• Disconnect the Linkage:
  • Examine the linkage and locate the clip or nut connecting it to the pop-up stopper rod.
  • Use pliers or an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the clip or nut.
• Remove the Stopper:
  • With the linkage disconnected, the pop-up stopper should now be free. Lift it out of the drain.
• Inspect and Clean:
  • Once removed, inspect the stopper and linkage for any hair or debris. Clean them thoroughly to ensure smooth operation when reinstalled.
• Reassemble (if needed):
  • If any components were detached during the cleaning process, ensure they are securely reattached.
• Test the Drain:
  • Turn on the water to check that the drain flows freely without any obstructions.

5. How to Remove a Plunger-Style Drain Stopper

• Identify the Stopper:
  • Recognize the plunger-style stopper by its design. It typically has a central knob that can be pulled up or pushed down to open and close the drain.
• Locate the Set Screw (if applicable):
  • Some plunger-style stoppers have a set screw that needs to be removed before the stopper can be taken out.
  • Check for a small screw on the knob or the body of the stopper.
• Remove the Set Screw (if applicable):
  • If there is a set screw, use a screwdriver to unscrew it. This may require turning it counterclockwise.
• Twist and Lift or Pull:
  • Twist the stopper counterclockwise while lifting it or pull it straight up, depending on the design.
  • If there’s resistance, use gentle wiggling or rotating motions to loosen the stopper.
• Inspect and Clean:
  • Once removed, inspect the stopper for any hair or debris. Clean it thoroughly to ensure smooth operation when reinstalled.
• Reassemble (if needed):
  • If any components were detached during the cleaning process, ensure they are securely reattached.
• Test the Drain:
  • Turn on the water to check that the drain flows freely without any obstructions.

Remember, these are general guidelines how to remove drain stopper from tub, and the specific method may vary based on the manufacturer or model of the stopper. If you are unsure about the type of stopper or encounter difficulties, it’s a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek help from a professional plumber.