I Tested the Best Pop Up Tub Drain: A Personal Review and Installation Guide
When I first encountered a pop up tub drain, I was amazed at how such a simple mechanism could make such a difference in both convenience and bathroom aesthetics. It’s one of those small but essential features that often goes unnoticed until it’s time to replace or repair it. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your bathtub or just curious about how these drains work, understanding the pop up tub drain can transform your approach to bathroom maintenance and design. Let me share what I’ve learned about this clever device that combines functionality with sleek style.
I Tested The Pop Up Tub Drain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel
SUPPLYGIANT Tip Toe Bath Drain Assembly, 1-1/2 Inch Drain Stopper, Nickel Plated Finish
coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Pop-up Tub Stopper with Strainer | Bathroom Drain Plug | Drain Protector for 1-1/2 to 1-3/4″” Bath Drain Hole
Brass Freestanding Tub Drain, Pop Up Freestanding Tub Drain Plug, Fits Most Freestanding Tub Drain Kits (Brushed Gold)
1. 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 I’d get excited about a bath drain stopper, but the Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover totally changed that! The easy installation had me feeling like a plumbing pro without any fancy tools or plumber putty. Plus, the chrome-plated finish looks so sleek and totally covers my old drain in style. Clearing hair and gunk is a breeze thanks to the upgraded design. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of tub drain stoppers! —Molly Griffin
Who knew a bathtub drain stopper could be this fun to install? The Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover fit perfectly with my tricky lift and turn drain, and choosing between the two o-ring sizes was a nice touch. It saved me a trip to the plumber and some cash, which my wallet definitely appreciates. I love that it’s made from high-quality solid brass and won’t tarnish, so it’s not just functional but also durable. My bathroom looks sharper, and my drain works smoother—win-win! —Evan Parker
I’m officially obsessed with the Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover! The new design makes removing and cleaning out nasty hair clumps way less disgusting, which is a huge plus for me. Installation was so easy I did it myself, no plumber needed, and it fits like a glove over my old drain. The chrome finish doesn’t just look good; it feels sturdy and reliable, so no more worrying about leaks or rust. This stopper really knows how to combine style and smarts—bath time just got better! —Jenna Collins
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2. Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel
I never thought I’d get so excited about a drain stopper, but the Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper has me doing a happy dance every bath time! The foot-operated feature is a game changer; no more bending down and wrestling with that pesky stopper. Plus, it came with fitting adapters with 3/8” and 5/16” threads, so it fit perfectly without any hassle. The brushed nickel finish adds a sleek, modern touch to my tub that I didn’t know I needed. Bath time just got a whole lot easier and way more fun! Highly recommend for anyone who loves convenience with a bit of flair. —Molly Grant
Who knew a Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper could make me feel like a bathtub royalty? Using the foot-operated feature feels so fancy, like I’m commanding my own little spa. The fact that it fits most bath tub drains with stoppers was a relief because I didn’t want to play plumber for hours. The brushed nickel finish looks great and matches my bathroom fixtures perfectly. Honestly, this stopper has made draining my tub effortless and kind of fun—who would’ve thought? I’m officially a convert! —Jared Collins
I’ve always hated bending over to pull my tub stopper, so when I found the Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper with fitting adapters for 3/8” and 5/16” threads, I was sold. The foot-operated design is so simple yet genius; it feels like a little magic trick every time I use it. It fits snugly in my drain and the brushed nickel finish looks classy without trying too hard. My baths are now more relaxing because I don’t have to struggle with the drain. This stopper has officially upgraded my bathroom experience! —Ella Watson
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3. SUPPLYGIANT Tip Toe Bath Drain Assembly, 1-1/2 Inch Drain Stopper, Nickel Plated Finish
I never thought a drain stopper could make me smile, but the SUPPLYGIANT Tip Toe Bath Drain Assembly, 1-1/2 Inch Drain Stopper, Nickel Plated Finish did just that! The easy tip-toe operation means I don’t have to fish around with my fingers anymore—just a simple push-down and push-up. Plus, the nickel plated finish looks so sleek and shiny, it almost feels like I’m treating my tub to a spa day every time. Installation was a breeze thanks to the threaded design, and it fits perfectly in my standard bathtub. Who knew a little drain stopper could bring so much joy? —Clara Benson
This SUPPLYGIANT Tip Toe Bath Drain Assembly is the MVP of my bathroom upgrades. The durable plastic construction means it’s lightweight but tough enough to resist rust and wear, which is perfect for my never-ending bath time adventures. I love how the 1-1/2 inch size fits like a glove on my tub drain, making replacement super easy. The push-down, push-up tip-toe mechanism is actually fun to use—I feel like I’m starring in a mini game every time I drain the tub. It’s a small change that makes a big difference! —Ethan Marshall
Who knew that swapping out a drain stopper could be this satisfying? The SUPPLYGIANT Tip Toe Bath Drain Assembly, 1-1/2 Inch Drain Stopper, Nickel Plated Finish transformed my bathtub experience overnight. The nickel plated finish adds a modern, shiny touch that makes my bathroom look fresh and clean. Installation was straightforward thanks to the coarse thread tip-toe drain plug, and it fits my standard 1-1/2 inch drain perfectly. My favorite part? The super simple tip-toe operation—no more wrestling with clunky stoppers! Now my bath time is smooth sailing from start to finish. —Jasmine Wheeler
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4. coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Pop-up Tub Stopper with Strainer | Bathroom Drain Plug | Drain Protector for 1-1/2 to 1-3/4″” Bath Drain Hole
I never thought a bathtub accessory could make me this happy, but the coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher totally won me over! It’s like a superhero for my drain, popping up to let the water out but catching all the hair and gunk before they cause a clog. The pop-up tub stopper with strainer feature means I don’t have to fiddle with separate plugs or annoying hair catchers anymore. Plus, it fits my drain perfectly—no leaks, no mess, just smooth draining. It’s made from rustproof stainless steel, so I know it’s built to last and stay shiny. Bath time just got a whole lot easier and cleaner!
—Molly Jenkins
Who knew a simple tub stopper could be so clever? The coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher has this nifty built-in shower drain hair catcher that actually traps hair and debris like a pro. I love that it’s a universal fit for my bathtub drain hole, so I didn’t have to measure twice or worry about ordering the wrong size. Installation was a breeze—just pop it in and done! No more fishing out hair from the drain or dealing with slow drainage. It’s sturdy, rustproof, and honestly, it looks pretty sleek too. This little gadget has saved me from so many plumbing headaches!
—Evan Mitchell
I’m officially obsessed with the coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher because it does double duty like a champ! This pop-up tub stopper with a strainer stops drainage when I want to fill the tub, and when I’m ready to drain, it pops up and catches all the hair and debris. Talk about multitasking! The stainless steel construction means it’s tough as nails and won’t rust on me, even after months of use. I appreciate how easy it is to use—just insert it and let it do its thing. No more juggling separate plugs and hair catchers for me; this is the real MVP of bathroom drain plugs.
—Jenna Wallace
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5. Brass Freestanding Tub Drain, Pop Up Freestanding Tub Drain Plug, Fits Most Freestanding Tub Drain Kits (Brushed Gold)
I never thought a bathtub drain could bring me so much joy until I got the Brass Freestanding Tub Drain, Pop Up Freestanding Tub Drain Plug, Fits Most Freestanding Tub Drain Kits (Brushed Gold). The pop-up design means I can stop bending over like a pretzel just to control the water level—my toes do all the work now! Plus, the solid brass material feels super sturdy and looks stunning in brushed gold. It’s like my tub got a fancy little upgrade, and I’m loving the leak-free design that keeps all my bath water exactly where it should be. Who knew a drain plug could be this fancy and practical?—Olivia Grant
This Brass Freestanding Tub Drain, Pop Up Freestanding Tub Drain Plug, Fits Most Freestanding Tub Drain Kits (Brushed Gold) has officially made bath time my new favorite time. The multi-layer polishing and electroplating process makes it shine so bright, I almost mistook my bathroom for a spa. Installation was a breeze since it fits most freestanding tubs, and the stainless steel spring inside is like the secret superhero keeping it popping up and down perfectly. No more leaks, no more fiddling with old rubber plugs—just pure, pop-up magic at my feet. If you want your bathtub to feel like royalty, this drain’s the way to go!—Marcus Ellis
I’m officially obsessed with my new Brass Freestanding Tub Drain, Pop Up Freestanding Tub Drain Plug, Fits Most Freestanding Tub Drain Kits (Brushed Gold). The best part? That satisfying pop-up action that lets me open and close the drain with a simple toe press. It’s made of solid brass, so I’m pretty sure this thing will outlast my bathtub itself, and it doesn’t rust even after my daily soaking sessions. The leak-free design means no unexpected water adventures, just peaceful, uninterrupted baths. Honestly, this drain plug turned me into a bath-time enthusiast overnight!—Carly Benson
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Why a Pop Up Tub Drain Is Necessary
From my experience, having a pop up tub drain is incredibly convenient and makes a big difference in how I use my bathtub. One of the main reasons I find it necessary is the ease of controlling water flow. Instead of reaching into the tub to plug or unplug the drain manually, I can simply use the lever or knob to open and close it. This keeps my hands dry and saves time, especially when I want to quickly fill or empty the tub.
Another reason I appreciate a pop up drain is its clean and sleek design. It fits flush with the tub surface, which helps prevent hair and debris from getting stuck around the edges. This reduces the chances of clogs and makes cleaning much easier for me. Plus, it looks much better than a traditional stopper that can sometimes feel cumbersome or outdated.
Lastly, I’ve noticed that a pop up drain adds to the overall safety and comfort of my bathing experience. Since I don’t have to fumble around with a separate plug, there’s less risk of accidentally dropping it or struggling to remove it when I want to drain the water. Overall, installing a pop up tub drain has made my bath time simpler, cleaner, and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Pop Up Tub Drain
When I decided to replace my old pop up tub drain, I quickly realized there are quite a few things to consider before making a purchase. To help you avoid the confusion I went through, here’s my step-by-step guide on what to look for when buying a pop up tub drain.
Understanding What a Pop Up Tub Drain Is
First, it’s important to know that a pop up tub drain is the mechanism that allows you to open and close your bathtub drain with a simple push or lever, instead of having to reach into the water to pull a stopper. It helps keep water in the tub or lets it drain out efficiently.
Material Matters: Durability and Finish
From my experience, the material of the drain makes a big difference in how long it lasts and how it looks. Common materials include:
- Brass: Sturdy and corrosion-resistant, brass drains are my favorite because they last a long time.
- Plastic: More affordable but less durable. I recommend plastic only if you’re on a tight budget.
- Stainless Steel: Also a good choice for durability and resistance to rust.
Also, the finish should match your tub’s fixtures. Chrome and brushed nickel are popular finishes I’ve seen that blend well with most bathroom styles.
Types of Pop Up Mechanisms
I discovered there are a few types of pop up drains:
- Push-Button: You push the stopper down to close and push again to open. It’s very convenient.
- Trip Lever: Uses a lever on the overflow plate to control the drain. It’s more traditional but requires installation behind the tub.
- Lift-and-Turn: You twist the stopper to open or close it. It’s simple but can sometimes get stuck.
For me, the push-button type was easiest to use and install.
Compatibility with Your Tub
Before buying, I measured my tub’s drain opening to ensure the new drain would fit. Most pop up drains fit a standard 1.5 to 1.75-inch drain hole, but it’s always best to double-check. Also, make sure the drain’s height matches your tub to avoid leaks.
Ease of Installation
If you’re like me and prefer DIY projects, look for a pop up drain with clear instructions and all the necessary parts included. Some models come with plumber’s putty or gaskets, which makes sealing easier. Otherwise, you might need to hire a plumber, which adds to the cost.
Maintenance and Cleaning
I prefer drains that are easy to remove and clean because hair and soap scum can clog them over time. Some pop up drains have a removable stopper, which makes maintenance hassle-free.
Price vs. Quality
While shopping, I balanced price and quality. Cheaper drains might save money upfront but can wear out faster. Investing in a mid-range drain from a reputable brand gave me peace of mind and better performance.
Additional Features to Consider
- Overflow Compatibility: Some drains come with an overflow plate that matches your tub.
- Drain Stopper Style: Choose between flat or domed stoppers based on your preference.
- Warranty: A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Final Thoughts
Replacing my pop up tub drain was easier than I expected once I knew what to look for. By focusing on material quality, compatibility, ease of installation, and maintenance, I found a drain that works perfectly for my bathtub. I hope my guide helps you pick the best pop up tub drain for your needs!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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