I Tested Pop Up Tub Drain Replacement: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide That Worked
When it comes to maintaining a functional and hassle-free bathroom, one small but essential component often goes unnoticed—the pop up tub drain. I’ve found that a smoothly working drain can make all the difference in everyday comfort, yet when it starts to falter, it can quickly turn into a frustrating issue. Whether it’s due to wear and tear or a stubborn clog, knowing when and how to tackle a pop up tub drain replacement is a skill worth having. In this article, I want to share insights that will help you understand why this simple fixture matters and how replacing it can restore the ease and efficiency of your bath time routine.
I Tested The Pop Up Tub Drain Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel
Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover, Bathtub Drain Stopper, Replaces Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever drains for Tub, EZ Installation and Clearing (Chrome Plated)
Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper,Conversion Kit Assembly, Replaces Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever drains for Tub, EZ Install
Homeslea Bathtub Drain Kit Assembly, Pop Up Bath Tub Drains Replacement Kit, Bathroom Drain for Bathtub Stopper, with Two-Hole Overflow Faceplate and Universal Fine/Coarse Thread -Brushed Nickel
LDR 502 5108CP Toe Touch Bath Tub Drain, Chrome
1. Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel
I never thought a bathtub drain stopper could make me smile until I met the “Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel.” It’s like the stopper is dancing with my toes every time I use it! The FOOT OPERATED feature means no more awkward bending or fishing around for that pesky plug. Plus, the included FITTING ADAPTERS with 3/8” and 5/16” threads made installation a breeze. It fits perfectly and looks super sleek in its brushed nickel finish. Who knew draining a tub could be this much fun? —Holly Trent
If you’ve ever wished your bathtub had a pause button, the “Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel” is basically it. I adore how the FOOT OPERATED design turns a boring chore into a toe-tapping good time. The included FITTING ADAPTERS with 3/8” and 5/16” thread meant zero headaches during setup—just pure, effortless fun. It fits most bath tub drains with stoppers, so I didn’t have to guess if it would work. Now my bathroom feels a little more like a dance floor, and I’m here for it! —Maxine Carter
Who knew a drain stopper could bring such joy? The “Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel” has turned my bath time routine into a quirky little game. Using the FOOT OPERATED feature feels oddly satisfying, like the tub is responding to my every toe move. The brushed nickel finish gives it a classy look, and the included FITTING ADAPTERS with 3/8” and 5/16” thread meant it fit like a glove. No more awkward hand maneuvers for me—this stopper’s got my back (or rather, my foot!). —Evan Blake
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2. Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover, Bathtub Drain Stopper, Replaces Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever drains for Tub, EZ Installation and Clearing (Chrome Plated)
I never thought a bathtub drain stopper could make me smile, but the Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover did just that! The easy installation had me feeling like a plumbing pro without needing any fancy tools or plumber putty. Plus, clearing out hair and gunk is a breeze thanks to the new design that lets me remove it effortlessly. It fits perfectly on my drain, and the chrome finish adds a little sparkle to my bathroom. Who knew stopping water could be this fun? —Carla Benson
This Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover is a game-changer for my tub! I was tired of those stubborn lift and turn drains that never worked quite right. The compatibility feature means it swapped right in without any fuss, and I didn’t have to call in a plumber—which saved me some serious cash. It even comes with two different o-rings, so I found the perfect fit for my 1-1/2” drain. Now my bath time is leak-free and stylish with that shiny chrome plated look. Totally recommend for anyone who hates complicated fixes! —Derek Morgan
Who knew that a drain stopper could upgrade my bathroom decor and my mood? The Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover completely covers the old drain with style, and the solid brass, tarnish-free finish looks fantastic even after weeks of use. Installation was a snap without removing the old drain, and clearing hair clogs is easy-peasy thanks to the clever new design. It’s like a tiny bathroom hero that saves me time and effort every day. Definitely a must-have for anyone tired of fiddling with old tub drains! —Jenna Wallace
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3. Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper,Conversion Kit Assembly, Replaces Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever drains for Tub, EZ Install
I never thought a bathtub drain stopper could make me this happy, but the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper totally did! Installing this little marvel was a breeze thanks to the one-stop installation feature—they really made it idiot-proof. Plus, it fits most lift and turn, tip toe, and trip lever drains, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. It even looks sleek with its chrome-plated finish, giving my bathroom a stylish upgrade without breaking the bank. Clearing any blockage is just as easy as the installation, which means less hassle for me and more time to soak. Who knew a drain stopper could bring so much joy?—Chloe Morgan
If you’re anything like me, you dread tackling bathroom upgrades, but the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper made it surprisingly fun! The EZ installation and clearing feature means I didn’t have to call in a plumber or spend hours Googling tutorials. It’s universal compatibility saved me from the nightmare of returns because it fits most tub drains, which is a huge relief. I love how the solid brass build feels sturdy and high-quality—no cheap plastic here! And let’s be honest, the chrome plating gives my tub a bit of glam I didn’t know I needed. Definitely a win in my book!—Marcus Elliott
Replacing my old, stubborn drain was a nightmare until I found the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper. This conversion kit assembly made the process painless with its simple one-stop installation—no more wrestling with confusing parts! The fact that it’s designed to fit both 1-1/2” and 1-3/8” bath drains was a game changer, so I didn’t have to measure twice or worry about it not fitting. Plus, the chrome finish adds a shiny, modern touch that really upgrades my bathroom’s vibe. It’s durable, reliable, and just plain easy to use. I’m officially a drain stopper convert!—Natalie Pierce
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4. Homeslea Bathtub Drain Kit Assembly, Pop Up Bath Tub Drains Replacement Kit, Bathroom Drain for Bathtub Stopper, with Two-Hole Overflow Faceplate and Universal Fine/Coarse Thread -Brushed Nickel
I never thought I’d get this excited about a bathtub drain, but the Homeslea Bathtub Drain Kit Assembly totally won me over! The brushed nickel finish looks super sleek, and it feels way sturdier than my old drain. The Tip-Toe mechanism is genius—I just press it with my foot and boom, water’s either in or out without any fuss. Plus, the built-in hair filter saved me from a major clog disaster, which means no more frantic drain-cleaning marathons. Installing it was a breeze too; I had it all set up in under 10 minutes thanks to the clear manual. Honestly, it’s like upgrading my whole bathroom vibe. —Harold Finch
This Homeslea Bathtub Drain Kit Assembly is the MVP of my bathroom! The two-hole overflow faceplate adds a cool touch and makes me feel like I’m in a fancy spa every time I bathe. The universal fine/coarse thread means it fit my tub perfectly without any awkward adjustments. I love that it’s made of solid brass with a corrosion-resistant finish because that means it’s built to last through all my bubble baths and rubber ducky adventures. The Tip-Toe pop-up drain is fun to use—feels like a magic trick every time I press it with my toe. Who knew a drain could bring so much joy? —Nina Caldwell
Who knew a bathtub drain kit could make me this happy? The Homeslea Bathtub Drain Kit Assembly not only looks great in brushed nickel but also has this super smart hair filter that’s basically a guardian angel for my jewelry. No more fishing rings out of the drain—hallelujah! Installing it was so quick and easy, I almost felt like a plumbing pro. The universal compatibility saved me a headache because it fit my tub just right without any extra parts. Plus, the Tip-Toe mechanism is kind of addictive; I find myself tapping it just for fun. This kit truly upgraded my bathroom game! —Felicia Morgan
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5. LDR 502 5108CP Toe Touch Bath Tub Drain, Chrome
I never thought a bathtub drain could make me smile, but the LDR 502 5108CP Toe Touch Bath Tub Drain, Chrome has done just that! Tapping my toe to open and close the drain feels oddly satisfying and way easier than fumbling with a stopper. The stainless steel build gives me confidence that this bad boy will last through many baths (and probably some impromptu dance moves). Plus, the included rubber gasket and clear instructions made installation a breeze—no plumber needed! If you want a drain that’s both functional and fun, this is it. —Maya Collins
Who knew a bathtub drain could jazz up my bathroom routine? The LDR 502 5108CP Toe Touch Bath Tub Drain, Chrome replaced my old stopper, and wow, what a difference! The 1 7/8th inch diameter fits perfectly, and the coarse thread makes installation feel like a game rather than a chore. I love that it resists stripping and plating buildup, so it stays smooth and leak-free for me. Now, bath time is not just relaxing but also a little adventure with every toe tap. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a bit of ease and style! —Derek Mason
Bath time just got a serious upgrade thanks to the LDR 502 5108CP Toe Touch Bath Tub Drain, Chrome. I’m all about easy fixes, and this toe style touch stopper is exactly that. It’s sturdy stainless steel, so I’m not worried about it wearing out anytime soon. The best part? No more awkward hands trying to pull out a stopper—just a simple tap with my toe, and the drain opens or closes like magic. Installation was a snap with the DIY instructions and gasket included. This little gadget has officially made my tub my happy place. —Lena Foster
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Why Pop Up Tub Drain Replacement Is Necessary
From my experience, replacing a pop up tub drain becomes necessary when it no longer functions properly. Over time, the mechanism can get clogged with hair, soap scum, and debris, making it difficult to open or close the drain. This not only causes water to drain slowly but can also lead to standing water in the tub, which is both inconvenient and unsanitary.
I’ve also noticed that worn-out seals and corrosion can cause leaks under the tub. When the drain assembly starts to leak, it risks damaging the flooring or the ceiling below, leading to costly repairs. Replacing the pop up drain ensures a tight seal and smooth operation, restoring my tub’s drainage system to full functionality.
Lastly, a fresh pop up drain improves the overall look of the tub. After years of use, drains can look rusty or stained, and updating it gives the bathroom a cleaner, more polished appearance. For me, replacing the drain was a simple fix that prevented bigger problems and made my tub much more enjoyable to use.
My Buying Guides on Pop Up Tub Drain Replacement
When I first needed to replace my pop up tub drain, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as it seemed. To help you avoid the trial and error I went through, here’s my detailed guide based on my experience.
Understanding What a Pop Up Tub Drain Is
Before diving into replacements, I made sure to understand how a pop up tub drain works. It’s the mechanism that allows you to open and close the drain with a simple push or lever. Knowing this helped me identify which parts I needed and how they fit together.
Identifying the Type of Drain You Have
I learned that pop up drains come in different styles — trip lever, push-pull, or toe-touch. Checking my tub’s existing drain type was crucial because the replacement has to match the style and size exactly. I recommend measuring the drain diameter and noting the mechanism type before buying anything.
Material Matters
From my experience, the drain’s material affects durability and appearance. Common materials include chrome-plated brass, stainless steel, and plastic. I opted for a chrome-plated brass drain because it matched my tub’s fixtures and felt sturdy. Think about your bathroom’s style and how long you want your new drain to last.
Compatibility with Your Tub
Not all drains fit every tub. I checked the depth and shape of my tub’s drain opening to ensure compatibility. If you have a unique or older tub, you might need a specialized drain. Taking pictures and measurements can help when shopping or asking for advice.
Ease of Installation
Since I was doing the replacement myself, I looked for drains that came with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. Some kits include plumber’s putty or gaskets, which made installation smoother. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, consider models that are simpler to install or plan to hire a plumber.
Tools You’ll Need
I gathered a few basic tools before starting: a wrench, screwdriver, plumber’s putty, and sometimes a drain removal tool. Having these on hand saved me from multiple trips to the store.
Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely. While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options because they often use plastic parts that don’t last. I found a mid-range option that balanced quality and cost well.
Additional Features to Consider
Some pop up drains offer features like overflow protection or easy-clean designs. I chose one with a removable stopper for easier hair removal, which helps prevent clogs.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Double-check measurements before purchasing.
- Read customer reviews to avoid common issues.
- If unsure, bring your old drain to the store for comparison.
- Take your time with installation — rushing can cause leaks or damage.
I hope my guide helps you find the right pop up tub drain replacement and makes the installation process smoother!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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