A clogged or outdated bathtub drain can become a nuisance and a source of plumbing issues. Whether you're dealing with slow drainage, replacing your tub, or simply upgrading fixtures, knowing how to remove a bathtub drain is essential for effective maintenance and home improvement. Below, we provide a detailed, professional-level guide that walks you through the entire process from identifying your drain type to the final cleanup.

Identifying the Type of Bathtub Drain

Before beginning, it's crucial to determine the type of drain you're working with. Common bathtub drains include:

Toe-touch drain

Lift-and-turn drain

Push-pull drain

Trip-lever drain

Grid strainer or flat pop-up

Identifying the exact mechanism will influence how you remove it. Carefully inspect the drain stopper to understand its operation whether it twists, lifts, or is controlled by a lever.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

To properly remove a bathtub drain, gather the following tools:

Flathead screwdriver

Drain wrench (tub drain remover tool) or adjustable pliers

Needle-nose pliers

Allen wrench (for some stopper types)

Hair clog remover or wire hanger (optional)

Plumber’s putty or silicone caulk (for reinstalling)

Clean rags

Penetrating oil (e.g., WD-40)

Bucket and sponge

Step 1: Remove the Bathtub Stopper

Each drain type requires a different technique to remove the stopper:

Toe-Touch Stopper

1. Press down and release to lift it to the open position.

2. Twist the stopper counterclockwise by hand.

3. If it resists, use a towel and pliers to loosen.

Lift-and-Turn Stopper

1. Open the stopper by lifting and holding it.

2. Locate the set screw (usually underneath) and loosen it with an Allen wrench or screwdriver.

3. Twist the stopper counterclockwise to remove it.

Push-Pull Stopper

1. Open the stopper fully.

2. Twist it counterclockwise until it detaches from the post.

3. Use pliers if it’s tight.

Trip-Lever Stopper

1. Unscrew the overflow plate with a screwdriver.

2. Gently pull the mechanism out of the overflow hole.

3. Remove any hair or debris attached.

Step 2: Unscrew the Bathtub Drain Flange

Once the stopper is out of the way, focus on the drain flange (the metal ring around the drain hole):

1. Insert a drain wrench into the crossbars of the drain.

2. Turn counterclockwise to unscrew the flange.

3. If stuck, apply penetrating oil around the threads and wait 10–15 minutes.

4. Use adjustable pliers if the crossbars are damaged or stripped.

Tip: For stubborn drains, a smart move is using a “smart dumbbell wrench” or even a pair of needle-nose pliers in the crossbars for added torque.

Step 3: Remove Old Plumber’s Putty and Clean the Area

Once the drain flange is removed:

1. Scrape off any residual plumber’s putty or silicone from the tub surface.

2. Use a rag and mild detergent to clean the area thoroughly.

3. Check the tub for cracks or rust around the drain opening.

Step 4: Inspect and Clean the Drain Pipe

Before replacing or reinstalling the drain, take the time to inspect the drain pipe:

Shine a flashlight into the drain to check for visible blockages.

Use a hair snake or wire hanger to remove hair clogs or debris.

Flush the drain with hot water to ensure smooth drainage.

Common Drain Removal Issues and How to Solve Them

Drain Won’t Budge

Apply penetrating lubricant and wait.

Tap around the flange lightly with a rubber mallet to break corrosion.

Use a heat gun carefully around the flange to expand the metal and ease removal.

Crossbars Broken

Use a drain key tool that grips the inner walls of the flange.

As a last resort, cut away the flange using a reciprocating saw or oscillating tool. Ensure you don't damage the tub.

When to Call a Professional

While most bathtub drains can be removed using basic tools and a bit of effort, you should consult a plumber if:

The drain is rusted or fused into the piping.

There are signs of leaks or water damage around the tub.

You’re unsure about reinstallation or upgrading to a new drain system.

How to Reinstall or Replace the Bathtub Drain

If you're replacing the old drain with a new one, follow these quick steps:

1. Roll a bead of plumber’s putty and place it around the underside of the new drain flange.

2. Insert the flange into the drain hole and screw it in with the drain wrench.

3. Tighten firmly, but don’t overtighten to avoid cracking the tub.

4. Reattach the stopper based on the type (reverse of removal process).

5. Run water and check for leaks around the flange.

Note: For acrylic tubs, consider using silicone caulk instead of plumber’s putty to avoid staining or warping.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Clean hair and debris from the drain weekly using a hair trap.

Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners regularly they can corrode pipes.

Flush the drain with boiling water and baking soda monthly to prevent buildup.

Conclusion

Learning how to remove a bathtub drain can save you time, money, and frustration. With the right tools and techniques, even a novice DIYer can tackle this task successfully. Proper removal, cleaning, and reinstallation of your bathtub drain ensures long-lasting plumbing performance and minimizes the risk of future clogs or leaks.

If you're experiencing persistent drain issues, don’t hesitate to inspect the underlying plumbing or call a licensed professional. Whether you're upgrading bathroom fixtures or performing routine maintenance, mastering this essential home improvement skill is invaluable.