How to Replace a Bathtub Drain Stopper

Bathtub stoppers are the workhorses of the bathroom, yet they are often ignored until they stop holding water or refuse to open. Whether you are dealing with a stuck lift-and-turn model or a corroded push-button stopper, the mechanism is rarely complex. Most issues stem from mineral buildup or simple mechanical fatigue, making this a perfect task for an afternoon update. Successfully replacing a drain stopper requires identifying your specific model before buying a replacement. Once you pull the old one out, the rest is a straightforward matter of cleaning the flange and ensuring a water-tight seal. When done well, you will have a drain that snaps shut firmly and opens easily, leaving your tub ready for a soak without a slow leak.

  1. Know Your Stopper Type. Look closely at your stopper to determine if it is a lift-and-turn, push-button, or toe-touch model. Check for a small set screw on the side of the cap, or try to unscrew the entire assembly by rotating it counter-clockwise while holding the body steady.
  2. Unscrew the Old Assembly. Loosen the set screw with a small hex key if present, or rotate the entire assembly counter-clockwise to unscrew it from the drain crossbar. If it is stuck, apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the threads and let it sit for ten minutes before trying again.
  3. Scrub the Drain Flange Clean. Scrape away any old plumber's putty or silicone residue from the drain flange using a plastic putty knife. Scrub the area with a stiff nylon brush and a mild bathroom cleaner to ensure the new seal sits perfectly flat.
  4. Apply the Putty Seal. Roll a small amount of plumber's putty into a thin pencil-sized coil and press it into the underside of the new stopper's mounting flange. This acts as a gasket to prevent water from leaking underneath the drain assembly.
  5. Thread in the New Stopper. Thread the new stopper into the drain hole by turning it clockwise until it is hand-tight. If it uses a set screw, tighten the screw firmly against the drain post, ensuring the stopper does not wobble.
  6. Test the Water Seal. Close the stopper and fill the tub with two inches of water. Let it sit for ten minutes to check for any drop in water level, then test the opening mechanism to ensure it retracts fully.