25 Types of Bathtub Drains: Choose the Right One

July 07, 2025

Contents
How to Choose the Right Bathtub Drain for Your Needs
How to Measure a Bathtub Drain for Replacement or Installation
Universal Drain Assemblies and Fit Considerations
Bathtub Drain Materials: What Are They Made Of?
Drain Finishes: Match Style With Durability
Installation vs Replacement: What You Need to Know
Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathtub Drains
Conclusion: Making the Right Drain Choice for Your Bathtub
Final Tip

Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Bathtub Drain Matters

Many homeowners only start thinking about their bathtub drain when something goes wrong—perhaps their bathtub slowly drains when stopped , or the stopper fails to seal water in properly. Whether you're planning a bathroom renovation or dealing with a faulty drain, understanding the types of bathtub drains is essential.

Common Bathtub Drain Stopper Types

1. Lift-and-Turn Drain Stopper

How It Works: The user lifts and twists the knob to open or close the drain. It remains fixed in place during use.

Best For: Standard bathtubs with traditional setups.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Durable and long-lasting	Can be difficult to remove for cleaning
Easy to operate and replace	May collect hair beneath the stopper
Affordable and widely available	Slightly more effort needed to open/close

2. Push-and-Pull Drain Stopper

How It Works: Push down to close and pull up to open. The stopper is secured with a screw beneath the cap.

Best For: Family-use bathrooms and guest tubs.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Simple mechanism	May loosen over time with use
Easy for all age groups to operate	Requires occasional unscrewing for cleaning
Durable under regular use	Limited design options

3. Toe-Touch Drain Stopper

How It Works: Press down with your toe to open or close. Operates with an internal spring mechanism.

Best For: Modern bathrooms or those prioritizing hands-free use.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Convenient, hands-free operation	Spring may wear out over time
Clean and modern appearance	Not suitable for users with mobility issues
No tools needed for installation	May need occasional replacement

Pros and Cons:

4. Flip-It Drain Stopper

How It Works: The toggle flips side to side to open or close. It seals using flexible O-rings.

Best For: DIYers and renters needing a quick fix.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Tool-free installation	O-rings may degrade with use
Easy to operate	Not ideal for tubs with built-in strainers
Budget-friendly	Less secure seal over time

5. Trip-Lever Drain Stopper

How It Works: Uses a lever on the overflow plate to control a hidden plunger inside the drainpipe.

Best For: Built-in tubs and older installations with overflow drains.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
No visible stopper in the tub	Complex to install and repair
Operated from outside the drain	Internal parts may clog or misalign
Flat floor surface inside the tub	Requires overflow access for maintenance

6. Pop-Up Drain Stopper

How It Works: Controlled by a lever on the overflow plate; moves a rocker arm that raises or lowers the stopper.

Best For: Modern bathrooms that favor integrated fixtures.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Clean and seamless look	Prone to hair buildup
No bending or reaching needed	Difficult to remove for cleaning
Integrated overflow control	More complex than standard stoppers

7. Removable Drain Stoppers (e.g., TubShroom, StopShroom)

How It Works: Inserted manually into the drain. Can be removed for cleaning or replacement.

Best For: Temporary setups, renters, and hair-clog prevention.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Catches hair before it clogs pipes	May shift out of place during use
Easy to clean and reinstall	Not integrated into tub hardware
No tools or installation required	Can look bulky in modern tubs

8. Chain and Plug Stopper

How It Works: A rubber or silicone plug is manually placed into the drain and removed using an attached chain.

Best For: Vintage-style or

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Simple, traditional design	Manual handling required
Easy to replace or clean	Not suited for modern aesthetics
Inexpensive and widely available	May deteriorate with frequent use

9. Flat or Suction Cup Stopper

How It Works: A rubber or silicone disc covers the drain opening and uses suction to seal.

Best For: Portable use, backup stoppers, or bathtubs with non-standard drains.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Universally fits most drains	Less secure seal than fitted models
Lightweight and portable	Can lose suction over time
Inexpensive and tool-free	Needs precise placement for effectiveness

10. Cable-Operated Drain Stopper

How It Works: Uses a rotary knob connected to a flexible cable, which controls a plunger or stopper remotely.

Best For: Freestanding or deep tubs where traditional access is limited.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Smooth external control	More expensive than traditional options
Elegant, modern functionality	Complex installation process
Ideal for luxury bathrooms	May require professional setup

11. Spring-Loaded Stopper

How It Works: Operates by pressing down to close and pressing again to release. A spring mechanism locks or releases the stopper in place.

Best For: Contemporary bathrooms prioritize ease of use and appearance.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Convenient, push-to-lock design	Spring may wear out with frequent use
Sleek, modern aesthetic	May be harder to clean around the edges
No external control required	Can jam if hair or soap builds up

12. PresFlo Stopper

How It Works: Pushes down to close and open, similar to a toe-touch, but generally smoother in appearance and installation.

Best For: Minimalist bathrooms with a clean, unobtrusive look.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Tool-free and easy installation	Spring tension can weaken over time
Flush design fits modern tubs	Not suitable for deep or textured drains
Works well with thin tub bases	May not seal as tightly as mechanical types

13. Accordion Stopper

How It Works: A flexible rubber or silicone stopper that compresses into the drain. Its accordion shape allows for expansion and sealing.

Best For: Versatile use across multiple tub sizes and drain types.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Fits a wide variety of drain sizes	Manual operation may not appeal to all users
Creates a strong, watertight seal	Can look bulky in modern bathrooms
Reusable and long-lasting	May trap debris between folds

14. Push-Lock Stopper

How It Works: Locks in place when pushed down, and unlocks with another press. Sometimes includes a safety lock to prevent leaks.

Best For: Tubs in family homes or guest bathrooms.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Easy to use without bending	Locking mechanism can fail over time
Modern look and compact design	Limited compatibility with oversized drains
Great for frequent use	May wear with repeated use

15. Twist-and-Seal Stopper

How It Works: The user twists the stopper to form a seal; twisting again releases the stopper and drains the water.

Best For: Larger tubs that need a more secure seal.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Tight, watertight seal	Manual operation may be inconvenient
Strong grip inside the drain	Not widely available in all finishes
Works with oversized drain holes	Typically more expensive

16. Bucket or Bell Stopper

How It Works: This stopper is shaped like a bell or small bucket and is placed directly over or inside the drain to hold water in the tub.

Best For: Freestanding or clawfoot tubs without built-in drain assemblies.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Classic, vintage appearance	Manual operation needed
No installation required	May not fit all drain shapes
Easy to clean and maintain	Not as secure as mechanical stoppers

17. Magnetic Stopper

How It Works: Uses a magnetic mechanism to seal against a compatible metal drain. Easily lifts away when removed.

Best For:

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Clean, tool-free operation	Only works with magnetic drains
Secure and watertight	May lose magnetism over time
Sleek, minimalist appearance	Limited availability

18. Weighted Stopper

How It Works: A heavy rubber or silicone stopper that seals the drain simply by resting its weight over it.

Best For: Non-standard bathtubs or irregular drain shapes.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
No installation or tools required	Can be knocked out of place
Universally compatible	Not aesthetically integrated
Easy to clean and reuse	Less secure than fixed stoppers

19. Remote-Controlled Stopper

How It Works: Uses a remote lever or dial (mounted separately) to open or close the drain stopper. Often part of luxury or spa-style tub setups.

Best For: High-end bathrooms prioritizing convenience and clean aesthetics.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Hands-free operation	Expensive and requires professional installation
Clean look with no stopper visible	Repairs may be complex
Ideal for integrated overflow setups	Limited to luxury or custom bathtubs

20. Vacuum-Seal Stopper

How It Works: Uses air suction to create a tight seal when placed over the drain. Requires firm pressing to activate suction.

Best For: Temporary or portable solutions.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Very tight seal prevents leaks	Can lose suction over time
Works with most drain types	Not suitable for textured surfaces
Portable and reusable	Requires careful positioning

21. Expandable Stopper

How It Works: An expandable stopper adjusts its size to fit different drain diameters. Often made from flexible rubber, it expands slightly when inserted, sealing the drain.

Best For: Tubs with non-standard drain sizes or multi-use homes.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Fits a wide variety of drains	May not seal as tightly as fixed designs
Durable and reusable	Can become less flexible with age
Great for renters or multi-tub homes	Not suitable for luxury or integrated setups

22. Universal Drain Cover Stopper

How It Works: A silicone or rubber disc is placed over the entire drain opening to create a seal. It relies on weight or mild suction to stay in place.

Best For: Households needing a quick, portable solution.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Works with nearly all drain shapes	Can move during use if not placed carefully
Easy to clean and store	May wear out over time
No installation or tools needed	Doesn’t match the tub’s aesthetic

23. High-Flow Drain Stopper

How It Works: Specifically designed for

Best For:

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Allows fast drainage after use	Typically more expensive than standard stoppers
Compatible with larger drain sizes	May require custom installation
Ideal for luxury or deep tubs	Not suitable for standard drain fittings

24. Tower Drain Stopper

How It Works: This type is commonly used with clawfoot or freestanding tubs. It operates using a vertical lever on the exposed pipe, controlling a stopper inside the drain.

Best For: Vintage or decorative tubs with visible plumbing.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
Visually appealing in clawfoot tubs	External parts may require more cleaning
Easy to access and operate	Only works with tubs designed for tower drains
Stylish finish options available	Can be costly to replace or repair

25. Straight Drain (Non-Stopper)

How It Works: A basic open pipe that allows water to flow out without any closing mechanism. Often used with external tub stoppers.

Best For: Freestanding tubs or installations using external plugs or overflow controls.

Pros and Cons:
Pros	Cons
No moving parts to fail	Cannot hold water without an external stopper
Extremely simple design	Not suitable for tubs used for soaking
Easy to maintain and clean	Minimal control over water retention

How to Choose the Right Bathtub Drain for Your Needs

Selecting the right bathtub drain stopper or assembly isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about compatibility, usability, and long-term maintenance. Here are the key factors to consider when evaluating your options:

1. Identify Your Current Drain Type

Understanding what you already have is the first step. Examine:

Overflow plate : Does it have a lever or is it just a cover?
Stopper movement : Does it twist, push, pull, or flip?
Drain opening : Is it visible or concealed?

If you're replacing an existing stopper, note that lift-and-turn , push-and-pull , and toe-touch models are often interchangeable due to similar installation methods.

2. Consider Who Will Use the Bathtub

If the tub is shared by children, seniors, or individuals with limited mobility:

Toe-touch or push-and-pull stoppers are ideal for easy access.
Avoid complex mechanisms like trip-levers that require overflow access and may be harder to maintain.

3. Match the Drain to the Bathtub Style

Bathtub Type	Recommended Drain Types
Freestanding/Clawfoot	Straight drain, chain-and-plug, tower, bell stop
Alcove/Built-in	Trip-lever, lift-and-turn, pop-up, toe-touch
Whirlpool/Soaking	High-flow drain, cable-operated, remote-controlled
Vintage/Renovated	Chain-and-plug, twist-and-seal, bell stopper
Modern/Minimalist	PresFlo, push-lock, magnetic, pop-up

4. Evaluate Maintenance Requirements

If you frequently deal with clogged drains:

Choose a stopper that is easy to remove and clean (e.g., removable, lift-and-turn).
Avoid systems with concealed parts (e.g., trip-lever, pop-up) unless you're comfortable with disassembly.

5. Align With Your Bathroom Finish

Drains come in multiple finishes to match faucets and trim:

Chrome: Modern and reflective
Brushed Nickel: Soft, warm, hides water spots
Oil-Rubbed Bronze: Antique or vintage look
Matte Black: Bold and contemporary
Polished Brass: Classic and luxurious

Choose a finish that complements your hardware, especially if your drain is exposed.

How to Measure a Bathtub Drain for Replacement or Installation

Accurate measurements are essential before purchasing a new drain. Most bathtubs in the U.S. follow standard sizes, but some custom or vintage tubs may differ.

Step 1: Measure the Drain Opening Diameter

Use a measuring tape or caliper .
Measure across the widest point of the opening.
Standard tub drains typically measure 1.5 inches in diameter (approximately 38 mm).

Tip: If you're replacing an existing drain, remove the stopper and flange before measuring.

Step 2: Measure the Drain Depth

Place a ruler vertically in the tub at the center of the drain.
Measure from the tub floor to the top of the flange .
Most standard tubs range from 2.5 to 4 inches in depth.

Step 3: Measure the Overflow Height (If Applicable)

Measure from the center of the overflow hole to the center of the main drain hole .
This helps when purchasing pop-up or trip-lever assemblies that include overflow linkage.

Step 4: Identify Thread Type (Fine or Coarse)

Most drains come with:

1 1/2 inch NPSM (coarse thread)
Or 1 1/4 inch options (fine thread)

Replacement kits often include adaptors for both. If uncertain, bring the old flange to a hardware store or consult the tub manufacturer.

Universal Drain Assemblies and Fit Considerations

Many modern universal-fit drains are adjustable to fit a variety of tubs. These products:

Offer multi-threaded designs
Include telescoping overflow tubes
Are useful in renovations or older homes with uncertain plumbing specs

Still, it’s best to verify:

Drain hole size
Overflow alignment
Tub depth

Some freestanding tubs require extended straight drains or external traps , which are not compatible with standard kits.

Bathtub Drain Materials: What Are They Made Of?

The material of a bathtub drain plays a critical role in its durability, resistance to corrosion, and compatibility with your tub type. Below is a breakdown of the most common materials used in bathtub drain assemblies.

Common Drain Materials Compared
Material	Features & Benefits	Limitations
Brass	Long-lasting, corrosion-resistant, suitable for high-moisture environments	Heavier; typically higher cost
Stainless Steel	Highly durable, rust-resistant, ideal for modern tubs	May scratch with harsh chemicals or abrasives
ABS Plastic	Lightweight, affordable, easy to install	Less durable over long-term use; not ideal for exposed drains
PVC	Inexpensive, easy to cut and fit, widely available	Prone to cracking under stress or heat
Nickel Bronze	Durable, corrosion-resistant, with a more refined look	Limited availability; slightly more expensive
Copper	Naturally antimicrobial, stylish in vintage or custom tubs	Can tarnish without coating; uncommon for drain use

Tip: For exposed plumbing (e.g., freestanding tubs), choose finishes and materials that complement the tub’s appearance. For concealed setups, prioritize performance and compatibility.

Drain Finishes: Match Style With Durability

Drain assemblies are not just functional—they’re visible components of your bathroom aesthetic. Here are popular finishes and when to use them:

Finish	Description & Ideal Use Cases
Chrome	Polished, mirror-like surface. Pairs well with contemporary bathrooms.
Brushed Nickel	Subtle, matte finish. Hides water spots and fingerprints.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze	Deep brown tone. Adds warmth to traditional or rustic spaces.
Matte Black	Bold and modern. Contrasts well with light tile or tub surfaces.
Polished Brass	Bright and luxurious. Ideal for vintage tubs or high-end design themes.

When choosing a finish, consider your faucet, shower trim, and overflow plate for a cohesive look.

Installation vs Replacement: What You Need to Know

Whether you're upgrading your bathroom or fixing a worn-out part, understanding the difference between installing a new bathtub drain and replacing an existing one can save time, effort, and unnecessary frustration. Each task has its own steps and requirements, but both are manageable with the right tools and preparation. Here’s a quick guide to help you handle each process efficiently.

When Installing a New Bathtub Drain

Installation Steps (Simplified):

Clean the drain opening. Remove debris, old adhesive, and any corrosion.
Apply plumber’s putty or silicone around the flange.
Insert the new drain and tighten it using a drain wrench or tub drain key.
Attach the overflow plate , if included in the assembly.
Test for leaks by filling the tub halfway and checking below.

Most universal bathtub drain kits include all necessary gaskets, flanges, and stoppers.

When Replacing an Existing Drain

Steps for Drain Replacement:

Remove the old drain flange using a tub drain wrench or smart dumbbell tool.
Clean the tub surface and inspect for rust or wear.
Match thread size and stopper type for compatibility.
Follow new installation steps to secure the replacement.
Replace the stopper and test for seal integrity.

Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?

DIY Installation Is Feasible When:

You’re installing a simple type like flip-it , toe-touch , or lift-and-turn .
You have basic tools and access to the drain area.
The drain size and style match standard configurations.

Hire a Plumber If:

Your tub has trip-lever , pop-up , or cable-operated mechanisms.
There’s no access panel for the overflow system.
You're dealing with non-standard drain threads or corrosion .
You want a guaranteed leak-proof installation (especially with expensive tubs).

Professional drain replacement may cost between $100–$250 , excluding parts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bathtub Drains

What Are the Different Types of Bathtub Drains?

There are over 25 different types of bathtub drains, each designed to match specific tubs, usage patterns, and user preferences. Common categories include:

Lift-and-Turn
Push-and-Pull
Toe-Touch
Flip-It
Trip-Lever
Pop-Up
Removable and Universal
Magnetic, Spring-Loaded, and Cable-Controlled
High-Flow and Straight Drains for freestanding tubs

Each type offers unique advantages in terms of maintenance, installation ease, and water-sealing reliability.

Are All Bathtub Drains the Same Size?

No. While many standard bathtub drains in the U.S. have a 1.5-inch diameter , there are exceptions. Older or custom bathtubs may feature 1.25-inch or even 2-inch drains . Drain flanges also come with coarse or fine threads , which may affect compatibility with replacement kits.

To avoid mismatch:

Measure the diameter of the drain opening
Remove the flange to check threading
Or select a drain kit with a universal adapter

What Size Drain Do I Need for My Bathtub?

Most tubs require a 1.5-inch drain for proper water flow and fit with common plumbing systems. For deep soaking tubs , whirlpool tubs, or freestanding models, a high-flow drain with larger capacity (up to 2 inches) may be more appropriate to handle water volume efficiently.

Refer to your tub manufacturer’s specifications if in doubt.

How Do I Measure My Bathtub Drain?

To measure your bathtub drain:

Drain Diameter – Use a tape measure across the widest part of the drain opening (standard is 1.5").
Overflow Height – Measure the vertical distance between the drain and overflow holes.
Drain Thread Type – Inspect threads (fine vs coarse) or refer to the old flange for sizing.

These measurements are critical when shopping for a replacement bathtub drain or choosing a new drain stopper .

How Do I Open or Close a Pop-Up Bathtub Drain?

A pop-up tub drain is controlled by a lever mounted on the overflow plate. Moving the lever up or down shifts an internal rod and rocker arm, which raises or lowers the drain stopper.

If it’s stuck:

Remove the overflow plate.
Inspect the trip lever mechanism .
Clean or replace the rocker arm and stopper assembly if necessary.

Can I Replace a Bathtub Drain Myself?

Yes, replacing a bathtub drain is a manageable DIY task if:

The drain type is simple (e.g., toe-touch , lift-and-turn ).
The threads and fittings are standard.
You have access to tools like a tub drain wrench .

If your drain involves internal linkages (e.g., trip-lever , pop-up , cable-operated ), it’s recommended to consult a plumber to avoid leaks and misalignment.

How Do I Stop Water From Draining Out of My Tub?

Ensure that:

The stopper is fully sealed (press down on toe-touch, twist lift-and-turn, etc.).
There’s no hair or debris preventing a tight seal.
The mechanism inside the drain (especially in trip-lever types) is aligned correctly.

If the drain still leaks, consider replacing the stopper or using a universal drain cover or removable silicone stopper as a temporary fix.

What’s the Best Drain Stopper for Preventing Clogs?

If hair clogging is a problem:

Use a TubShroom , StopShroom , or removable mesh strainer .
Avoid fixed-in-place stoppers like trip-levers , which are harder to clean.
Regularly clear debris from stoppers and overflow tubes.

Stoppers that allow easy removal and access to the pipe (e.g., lift-and-turn , removable , flip-it ) are best for long-term maintenance.

How Do I Close a Bathtub Drain Without a Stopper?

If your tub is missing a stopper , you can:

Use a flat rubber suction stopper .
Try a universal drain cover .
Use weighted stopper or even a temporarily fitted rubber plug from a hardware store.

For a long-term solution, install a replacement drain kit that matches your tub type and drain size.

Can I Use the Same Drain Stopper for a Shower and Bathtub?

Shower drains and bathtub drains differ in both design and function:

Showers use permanent strainers or linear drains.
Bathtubs require sealable stoppers for water retention.

That said, some universal stoppers like flat covers, rubber plugs, and suction-based products can work in both setups temporarily—but aren’t ideal for long-term use.

Conclusion: Making the Right Drain Choice for Your Bathtub

Selecting the right bathtub drain stopper isn’t just a small detail—it directly affects your bathing experience, your tub’s efficiency, and your bathroom’s overall functionality.

Whether you need to replace a tub drain , choose between different types of bathroom tub drains , or troubleshoot a bathtub that slowly drains when stopped , this guide has covered everything—from measuring, material selection, and compatibility to maintenance tips and user-specific recommendations.

Key Takeaways:

There are over 25 types of bathtub drains , ranging from simple toe-touch models to advanced cable-operated and remote-controlled stoppers .
Standard drain size is 1.5 inches , but measuring your specific drain is essential before buying.
Choose a drain based on tub type , user needs , aesthetic preferences , and ease of maintenance .
Consider high-flow drains for soaking tubs , universal or removable stoppers for rentals or travel, and stylish finishes like brushed nickel or matte black for exposed plumbing.
DIY replacement is possible for simple drain types, but complex systems may require professional installation .

Need Help Selecting a Bathtub Drain?

At Aquatica USA , we offer a curated selection of luxury bathtub drains and drain assemblies designed to pair perfectly with our freestanding, built-in, and whirlpool tubs. Our customer care team is ready to help you choose the right fit for your tub , whether you need a replacement drain , a high-flow solution , or a designer-finished assembly .

Explore our drain products
Contact our support team for compatibility guidance
Or speak with a bathroom expert for tailored recommendations

Final Tip

Still not sure which type to choose? Measure your current drain, check your overflow configuration, and match your preferred mechanism using this guide. Bookmark this resource or share it with your contractor or plumber when planning your upgrade.

Practical suggestions,

Accessories,

How tos,

Installation,

Materials and composition