How to Remove a Bathtub Drain Plug: A Step-by-Step Guide

The bathtub drain plug is an essential component that keeps water in the tub when you need it, but it can also become a nuisance when it gets stuck or doesn’t work properly. Removing a bathtub drain plug may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and steps, it’s a simple DIY project you can do yourself. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of removing a bathtub drain plug step-by-step.

Step 1: Prep Your Work Area

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need and that your work area is clear. Gather your tools, which may include a screwdriver, pliers, a wrench, and a drain key. You may also need some silicone lubricant or penetrating oil if the drain plug is stuck. Clear the area around the bathtub and put down some towels or a drop cloth to protect your flooring.

Step 2: Identify the Type of Drain Plug

There are two common types of bathtub drain plugs: push/pull stoppers and lift-and-turn stoppers. To remove the drain plug, you need to know which type you have.

Push/pull stoppers are usually found in older bathtubs and are easy to identify because they have a knob or handle on top that you push down or pull up to close or open the drain.

Lift-and-turn stoppers are more common in modern bathtubs and have a circular top that you lift and turn to close or open the drain.

Step 3: Remove the Drain Plug

Push/pull stoppers:

  1. Start by removing the knob or handle on top of the drain plug. This is usually held in place with a screw that you can remove with a screwdriver.

  2. Once the knob is removed, you should see a metal shaft that runs down the drain. Use pliers to grip the shaft and twist it counterclockwise until it pops out of the drain.

  3. Lift the drain plug out of the drain and clean any debris or hair from the shaft and drain.

Lift-and-turn stoppers:

  1. Start by turning the drain plug counterclockwise to unscrew it from the drain.

  2. Once the drain plug is unscrewed, lift it out of the drain and clean any debris or hair from the shaft and drain.

Step 4: Clean the Drain

After removing the drain plug, it’s a good idea to clean the drain to remove any built-up hair, soap scum, or debris. You can use a plunger, drain snake, or a combination of baking soda and vinegar to clean the drain. Simply pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then rinse with hot water.

Step 5: Reinstall the Drain Plug

Once the drain is clean, it’s time to reinstall the drain plug. Simply reverse the steps you took to remove it. If you have a push/pull stopper, insert the shaft back into the drain and screw the knob or handle back on top. If you have a lift-and-turn stopper, insert the drain plug into the drain and turn it clockwise to tighten it.

Step 6: Test the Drain Plug

Once the drain plug is reinstalled, fill the bathtub with water and test the drain plug to make sure it’s working properly. For push/pull stoppers, push the knob down or pull it up to close or open the drain. For lift-and-turn stoppers, lift and turn the drain plug to close or open the drain.

If the drain plug still isn’t working properly, you may need to call a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the issue.

 

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