How to Remove a Tub Stopper

Tools Required for Removing a Tub Stopper

When it comes to removing a tub stopper, you’ll need a few tools to get the job done. The exact tools you need will depend on the type of tub stopper you have, but here are some common tools you might need:

1. Pliers – You may need pliers to grip and twist the tub stopper or remove any screws that are holding it in place.

2. Screwdriver – If your tub stopper has screws holding it in place, you’ll need a screwdriver to remove them.

3. Allen wrench – Some tub stoppers have a small screw that requires an Allen wrench to remove.

4. Drain key – A drain key is a specialized tool used to remove some types of tub stoppers. It’s a small tool with prongs that fit into the drain and allow you to turn the stopper.

5. Silicone lubricant – If your tub stopper is stuck, you may need to use a silicone lubricant to help loosen it. Apply the lubricant around the edges of the stopper and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove it.

Make sure you have all the necessary tools before you start attempting to remove your tub stopper. This will save you time and frustration in the long run.

Identifying the Type of Tub Stopper

Before you can remove your tub stopper, you need to identify what type of stopper you have. There are several different types of tub stoppers, and each one requires a slightly different method for removal. Here are the most common types of tub stoppers:

1. Toe-touch stopper – A toe-touch stopper is a flat or slightly curved plate that sits over the drain. It is operated by pressing down on it with your toe.

2. Lift-and-turn stopper – A lift-and-turn stopper has a knob on top that you lift up and turn to lock it in place. To remove the stopper, you need to twist it counterclockwise and lift it out.

3. Push-pull stopper – A push-pull stopper looks like a lift-and-turn stopper, but it doesn’t have a knob. Instead, you push it down to close it and pull it up to open it.

4. Trip-lever stopper – A trip-lever stopper has a lever on the overflow plate near the tub rim. You lift the lever to close the drain and push it down to open it.

5. Pop-up stopper – A pop-up stopper is a type of trip-lever stopper that is operated by a rod behind the overflow plate. You lift the rod to close the drain and push it down to open it.

By identifying the type of tub stopper you have, you can determine the best way to remove it. Take a close look at your tub stopper to see which type it is before you begin.

Steps for Removing a Toe-Touch Tub Stopper

Removing a toe-touch tub stopper is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Locate the setscrew – Look for a setscrew on the side of the stopper plate. Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the setscrew.

2. Lift the stopper – Once the setscrew is removed, you should be able to lift the stopper plate straight up and out of the drain.

3. Clean the stopper – If the stopper is dirty or covered in hair and debris, clean it thoroughly before replacing it.

4. Replace the stopper – To replace the stopper, simply place it back into the drain and secure it with the setscrew.

If your toe-touch stopper doesn’t have a setscrew, it may be held in place with friction. In this case, you’ll need to grip the stopper plate firmly and twist it counterclockwise while pulling up. If the stopper is stuck, you may need to use a silicone lubricant to help loosen it. Apply the lubricant around the edges of the stopper and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove it.

Steps for Removing a Lift-and-Turn Tub Stopper

Removing a lift-and-turn tub stopper can be a bit more challenging than removing a toe-touch stopper, but it’s still a manageable DIY task. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Lift the stopper – Lift the stopper knob up to the open position.

2. Twist the stopper – Twist the stopper counterclockwise to unscrew it from the drain.

3. Pull the stopper out – Once the stopper is unscrewed, you should be able to pull it straight up and out of the drain.

4. Clean the stopper – If the stopper is dirty or covered in hair and debris, clean it thoroughly before replacing it.

5. Replace the stopper – To replace the stopper, simply insert it back into the drain and twist it clockwise to screw it in place.

If your lift-and-turn stopper is stuck and won’t unscrew, you may need to use pliers to grip the knob and turn it. Be careful not to apply too much force or you could damage the stopper or the drain. If the stopper still won’t come out, you may need to call a plumber for assistance.

Steps for Removing a Push-Pull Tub Stopper

Removing a push-pull tub stopper is a straightforward process that requires a bit of force. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Grip the stopper – Grip the stopper knob firmly and pull it straight up to remove it from the drain.

2. Clean the stopper – If the stopper is dirty or covered in hair and debris, clean it thoroughly before replacing it.

3. Replace the stopper – To replace the stopper, simply insert it back into the drain and push it down to lock it in place.

If your push-pull stopper is stuck and won’t come out, you may need to use pliers to grip the knob and pull it up. Be careful not to apply too much force or you could damage the stopper or the drain. If the stopper still won’t come out, you may need to call a plumber for assistance.