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

Ever noticed how a slow-draining bathtub can turn a relaxing soak into a frustrating chore? Clogged or corroded bathtub drains are a common household headache, leading to standing water, unpleasant odors, and even potential pipe damage if left unattended. While calling a plumber is always an option, tackling this simple repair yourself can save you money and give you the satisfaction of a job well done. Removing the drain is the first step in diagnosing the problem, whether it’s a simple hair clog or a more serious issue requiring drain replacement.

Understanding how to safely and effectively remove a bathtub drain is a valuable skill for any homeowner. It allows you to clean out debris, inspect for damage, and even replace the drain stopper or entire assembly if necessary. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can conquer this plumbing task and keep your bathroom functioning smoothly. Plus, proactively addressing drain issues can prevent costly plumbing emergencies down the road, saving you both time and money.

What tools do I need, and how do I actually get that drain out?

What’s the easiest way to remove a stubborn bathtub drain?

The easiest way to remove a stubborn bathtub drain is usually by using a drain removal tool, often called a “drain key” or “bathtub drain wrench.” These tools are specifically designed to grip the crossbars or internal mechanism of the drain and provide leverage to unscrew it. Before using the tool, make sure to clear any debris and apply penetrating oil to the drain threads to help loosen any corrosion.

For drains that have become particularly stuck, applying heat can be beneficial. A hairdryer (not a heat gun, which can damage the tub) directed at the drain for a few minutes can help expand the metal slightly, breaking the bond caused by rust or mineral buildup. After applying heat, try the drain removal tool again. If it still resists, consider gently tapping the tool with a hammer to deliver small vibrations that can further loosen the drain. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as this could damage the tub or the drain itself. If the drain is stripped or the crossbars are broken, a different approach might be necessary. A pipe wrench or locking pliers can sometimes be used to grip the outer edges of the drain if there’s enough exposed surface. As a last resort, you may need to carefully cut the drain with a reciprocating saw, being extremely cautious not to damage the bathtub surface. This method should only be used by experienced DIYers or professionals, as it carries a higher risk of damage. Remember to always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with tools and chemicals.

Which type of tool is best for removing different bathtub drain styles?

The best tool for removing a bathtub drain depends entirely on the drain style. For standard pop-up drains with a crossbar, a specialized bathtub drain wrench (also known as a dumbbell wrench or spider wrench) is ideal. For lift-and-turn, toe-touch, or push-and-pull drains, you might need a flathead screwdriver, pliers, or a specific drain removal tool designed for these types of drains. For drains that are heavily corroded or stuck, penetrating oil and a basin wrench can be helpful.

Different bathtub drain styles require different approaches and, consequently, different tools. Standard pop-up drains with a visible crossbar are most easily removed with a bathtub drain wrench. This tool has a cross-shaped design with different sized “feet” that fit into the crossbar, allowing you to apply leverage and unscrew the drain. Trying to use pliers or a screwdriver on this type of drain often damages the crossbar, making removal even more difficult. For more modern drain styles like lift-and-turn, toe-touch, or push-and-pull drains, the method of removal varies, and the appropriate tool follows suit. Some of these drains have a set screw that needs to be loosened with a small flathead screwdriver or Allen wrench before the drain body can be unscrewed. Others may require a specialized drain removal tool that grips the inner mechanism of the drain. If the drain is simply stuck, penetrating oil and gentle persuasion with pliers (protected by a cloth to prevent scratching) might do the trick. In cases of extreme corrosion, a basin wrench might be needed to grip the drain from underneath the tub.

How do I prevent scratching the tub when removing the drain?

The best way to prevent scratching the tub while removing the drain is to use a specialized tool like a tub drain extractor (also known as a drain wrench or a dumbbell wrench), and to protect the tub surface with a layer of cushioning material. Covering the area around the drain with a thick cloth or several layers of masking tape will help absorb any accidental bumps or scrapes.

Protecting the tub surface is paramount because scratches can be difficult and costly to repair, especially on porcelain or enamel tubs. Even small scratches can create a place for rust and grime to accumulate. When using a drain removal tool, ensure it fits snugly and correctly in the drain opening to minimize slippage. Avoid applying excessive force, which can not only damage the tool or drain, but also increase the risk of scratching the tub if the tool suddenly slips. If you’re using a standard plier-type wrench, wrap the jaws of the wrench with several layers of thick cloth or tape. Consider using a rubber strap wrench, which provides excellent grip without the risk of metal-on-tub contact. For stubborn drains, try applying penetrating oil around the drain threads and letting it sit for 15-30 minutes to loosen any corrosion before attempting removal. This reduces the force needed and minimizes the potential for accidental slippage and subsequent scratching.

What should I do if the drain is corroded and won’t budge?

If your bathtub drain is severely corroded and refuses to budge, penetrating oil is your first line of defense. Apply a generous amount of penetrating oil (like Liquid Wrench or WD-40 Specialist Penetrant) to the drain threads and let it soak for at least several hours, or even overnight. The oil will help break down the corrosion and loosen the drain’s grip.

After sufficient soaking, try using the appropriate drain removal tool again. Apply firm, even pressure, and avoid forcing it too much initially, as you risk further damage. If it still resists, you can try gently tapping the drain removal tool with a hammer to help break the corrosion. Be careful not to damage the tub’s finish or the drain itself. Another technique is to apply heat to the drain using a heat gun or hairdryer (on a low setting). Heat can help expand the metal and loosen the corrosion’s hold. Use caution to avoid overheating and damaging surrounding materials like plastic pipes or the tub itself.

If all else fails, you may need to resort to more drastic measures, such as cutting the drain. This requires specialized tools and skill, and it’s generally best left to a professional plumber. Cutting the drain improperly can damage the tub or the drainpipe, leading to costly repairs. Before attempting any cutting, consider whether you’re comfortable with the risks and potential consequences. A plumber will have the experience and tools to safely remove the corroded drain and replace it without causing further damage.

Do I need to shut off the water before removing a bathtub drain?

Yes, you absolutely need to shut off the water supply before attempting to remove a bathtub drain. Failing to do so can result in a significant and potentially damaging water leak as soon as the drain is disconnected from the plumbing.

Removing the bathtub drain without shutting off the water supply can lead to a rush of water flowing up from the drainpipe. This water can quickly flood your bathroom, causing damage to flooring, walls, and potentially even lower levels of your home. Shutting off the water ensures that no water pressure is present in the pipes connected to the drain, allowing you to work without the risk of flooding. The primary water shut-off valve for your bathroom is usually located near the toilet or under the sink. In some cases, there might be individual shut-off valves specifically for the bathtub. If you can’t locate a local shut-off, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your entire house, which is usually found near the water meter or where the water line enters your home. Once the water is shut off, it is a good practice to turn on the bathtub faucet to release any residual water pressure in the pipes before you begin removing the drain. This reduces the chance of any unexpected drips or spills once the drain is detached.

How do I identify what kind of bathtub drain I have?

Identifying your bathtub drain type involves visually inspecting the drain and its operating mechanism. Look closely at the stopper, the drain flange (the metal ring around the drain opening), and how you control the drain (lever, knob, or foot-activated). These features are key to distinguishing between different drain types like pop-up, lift-and-turn, toe-touch, trip lever, and push-and-pull drains.

The most common bathtub drain types include:

• Pop-Up Drains: These often have a simple, mushroom-shaped stopper that you push down to close and push again to open.
• Lift-and-Turn Drains: As the name suggests, these drains feature a stopper you lift slightly and then turn to either lock it closed or release it to open.
• Toe-Touch Drains: Activated by your foot, pressing down on the stopper once seals the drain, and pressing again releases it.
• Trip Lever Drains: These utilize a lever (usually located on the overflow plate near the faucet) that you move up or down to control a plunger that seals or opens the drain.
• Push-and-Pull Drains: This type has a stopper you manually pull up to close the drain and push down to open it.

If you’re unsure, try searching online for images of each drain type to compare with your own. Knowing the drain type is crucial because each requires a slightly different removal technique. Attempting to remove a drain improperly could damage the drain itself or the surrounding tub area.

Is it possible to reuse the old drain after removing it?

Generally, it is *not* recommended to reuse an old bathtub drain after removing it. While technically possible in some situations, doing so often leads to leaks and further complications down the line. It’s almost always better to install a new drain assembly.

The main reason to avoid reusing an old drain is due to the difficulty of creating a perfect seal after it’s been disturbed. The rubber or putty seals that initially made the connection watertight are often damaged or compressed during removal. Trying to re-seal these old, compromised parts is highly likely to fail. Mineral buildup, corrosion, and general wear and tear on the drain’s components can further exacerbate the problem, creating imperfections that prevent a tight, leak-proof fit. The small cost of a new drain assembly far outweighs the potential damage and expense of dealing with leaks within your bathroom. Furthermore, removing a drain can sometimes damage it. Especially if the drain is old or corroded, forcing it loose can crack or bend parts, rendering them unusable even if they initially appear intact. Why risk re-installing a potentially compromised part only to discover later it needs to be replaced anyway? Save yourself the time, effort, and potential headache by simply opting for a new drain assembly from the start.

And that’s all there is to it! Hopefully, you’ve successfully removed that stubborn bathtub drain and are one step closer to a sparkling clean or fully renovated tub. Thanks for reading, and we hope you’ll come back and visit us again for more helpful tips and tricks around the house!