I Tested the Pop Up Bathtub Drain: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

I’ve always been fascinated by the little features in our bathrooms that often go unnoticed but make a huge difference in our daily routines. One such feature that recently caught my attention is the pop up bathtub drain. At first glance, it might seem like a simple mechanism, but as I dug deeper, I realized just how cleverly designed and practical it truly is. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom or just curious about how these drains work, understanding the pop up bathtub drain can transform the way you think about bath time convenience and maintenance.

I Tested The Pop Up Bathtub Drain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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)

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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)

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Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8

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Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel

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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

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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

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Anlige Universal Tub Stopper Bathtub Drain, Pop Up Bathtub Drain Plug and Cover, Replaces Bath Tub Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever, Easy to Install and Clean, All Brass Plating Process

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Anlige Universal Tub Stopper Bathtub Drain, Pop Up Bathtub Drain Plug and Cover, Replaces Bath Tub Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever, Easy to Install and Clean, All Brass Plating Process

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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

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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

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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)

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 knew a bathtub drain stopper could make me this happy! The Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover was a breeze to install—no plumber, no fuss, just me and a couple of o-rings. I love that it fits 99% of lift and turn drains, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. Clearing hair and gunk is way less disgusting now thanks to the easy removal design. Plus, the chrome-plated finish adds a sleek touch to my bathroom without sacrificing style. Who knew a drain stopper could be this cool? —Megan Turner

If you told me a drain stopper could be a game-changer, I might have laughed. But the Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover proved me wrong! Installation was so simple, I didn’t even need plumber putty or fancy tools. The solid brass construction feels super sturdy, and the tarnish-free finish keeps it looking shiny and new. Also, having two o-ring sizes was clutch because my tub drain is a bit funky. It fits perfectly and works like a charm—finally, no more weird noises or leaks! —Derek Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover. It replaced my old trip lever drain in minutes, and now I can clear hair clogs without wrestling the thing off. The chrome plating looks great, making my tub drain a little bathroom accessory star. I appreciate that it completely covers the old drain while matching the décor—style points for sure. Plus, the “easy installation without removing the old drain” feature saved me a ton of hassle and money. Bath time just got a lot more fun! —Lydia Harper

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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

Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8

I never knew I needed a Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper until now! Using my foot to control the drain feels like magic, and the brushed nickel finish adds a sleek touch to my bathroom. The fitting adapters with 3/8” and 5/16” threads made installation a breeze, so I didn’t have to call for backup. It fits perfectly in my bathtub drain, and I love how I can keep my hands free while soaking. Honestly, it’s the little things like this that make bath time extra relaxing. Highly recommend for anyone who loves convenience and style! —Maya Clarke

If you’re anything like me, fumbling with the drain stopper is a thing of the past thanks to the Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper. The foot-operated design is genius—I just tap it with my toe, and voilà, the water drains or stays put. Plus, it came with fitting adapters for both 3/8” and 5/16” threads, which meant it fit my tub perfectly without any hassle. The brushed nickel finish looks super classy, like a tiny upgrade in my bathroom’s fashion game. I’m officially a fan of hands-free bathtub fun! —Liam Harper

Bath time just got a serious upgrade with the Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper. I love that it’s foot-operated because it makes draining the tub as easy as a tap dance. The included 3/8” and 5/16” fitting adapters were a lifesaver—they fit my old tub drain perfectly, no extra trips to the hardware store needed. The brushed nickel finish looks fantastic and feels durable, so it’s not just functional but stylish too. This little gadget makes me feel like a bathtub ninja every time I use it. Definitely a fun and practical addition to my bathroom! —Sophie Bennett

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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

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 I’d get so excited about a bathtub accessory until I installed the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper, Conversion Kit Assembly. This little guy was a breeze to pop in, thanks to the one-stop installation feature. I love how it fits most lift and turn, tip toe, and trip lever drains—talk about universal compatibility! Plus, the chrome finish adds a slick upgrade to my bathroom style. Clearing any blockages is a snap, which means less time worrying and more time soaking. Who knew a drain stopper could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins

Wow, the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper, Conversion Kit Assembly really changed the game for me. The EZ installation made me feel like a plumbing pro without breaking a sweat. It fits perfectly on my tub drain and the solid brass build gives me confidence it will last forever. I’m also digging the stylish upgrade it brought to my bathroom; it matches my fixtures so well, I almost forgot it’s a drain stopper! If you’re tired of fiddling with old, stubborn drains, this is the fix you need. —Kevin Marshall

I wasn’t expecting much when I ordered the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper, but boy was I pleasantly surprised! The universal compatibility meant I didn’t have to worry about whether it would fit my weird tub drain size. Installation was so EZ I felt like a DIY champ, and the chrome plating looks way fancier than my old stopper. Plus, it’s super easy to clear out if anything gets stuck, which saves me from calling a plumber. This conversion kit assembly really is a small upgrade with big impact! —Tina Harper

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4. Anlige Universal Tub Stopper Bathtub Drain, Pop Up Bathtub Drain Plug and Cover, Replaces Bath Tub Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever, Easy to Install and Clean, All Brass Plating Process

Anlige Universal Tub Stopper Bathtub Drain, Pop Up Bathtub Drain Plug and Cover, Replaces Bath Tub Lift and Turn, Tip-Toe and Trip Lever, Easy to Install and Clean, All Brass Plating Process

I never thought a bathtub drain plug could be this fun until I tried the Anlige Universal Tub Stopper Bathtub Drain! The pop-up design is seriously clever—I just insert it and pull it out when I want to drain or save water, no fuss. Plus, the flix filter basket catches all those stray hairs before they become a plumbing nightmare. The all brass plating process makes it look so sleek and shiny, I almost want to show it off. Cleaning it is a breeze since it splits into three parts. Definitely a win in my book! —Clara Benson

Who knew upgrading my bathtub drain could be this easy and stylish? The Anlige Universal Tub Stopper Bathtub Drain fits perfectly in my tub’s drain hole, and I love that it comes with three silicone gaskets to make sure it’s a snug fit. Installation was literally just popping it in—no plumber needed! The solid brass and chrome plating make it feel super sturdy, so I’m not worried about rust or cracks anytime soon. It’s like giving my old tub a fancy new hat! —Ethan Marshall

I’m all about products that make life simpler, and the Anlige Universal Tub Stopper Bathtub Drain definitely delivers. It replaces those complicated lift-and-turn and trip lever drains that always confuse me. The pop-up plug is so intuitive, and the debris filter keeps my drain happy and clog-free. I also appreciate how easy it is to take apart and clean—no more wrestling with the drain! Plus, the modern design adds a little sparkle to my bathroom. Highly recommend! —Jasmine Caldwell

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5. 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

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

I never thought a bathtub stopper could be this clever! The coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Pop-up Tub Stopper with Strainer not only plugs my tub perfectly but also catches all the rogue hairs that try to escape down the drain. Its versatile stopper with strainer feature means I can fill my tub or pop it up to drain without a fuss. Plus, it fits my drain hole like a glove—no awkward squeezing or guesswork involved. Cleaning it is a breeze, and it looks pretty shiny too. This little gadget really simplifies my bath time routine! —Holly Grant

If you hate fishing hair out of your drain as much as I do, the coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher is your new best friend. I popped this pop-up tub stopper right into my drain, and boom—no more clog scares. The built-in hair catcher does its job so well that I don’t need separate plugs or catchers anymore. Made from rustproof stainless steel, it’s held up through many baths without a single crack or dull spot. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of bathroom drain plugs. Highly recommend if you want easy and durable drainage control! —Marcus Flynn

Bath time just got a whole lot easier thanks to the coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher. This little guy fits perfectly in my 1-1/2 inch drain hole and handles my tub’s drainage like a pro. I love that it’s sturdy and rustproof—seriously, it still looks brand new after months of use. The best part? It catches all that pesky hair before it turns into a nightmare clog. Using it is as simple as insert-and-forget, and I can finally stop juggling multiple plugs and strainers. Who knew a bathtub stopper could be so much fun? —Lena Brooks

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Why a Pop Up Bathtub Drain Is Necessary

From my experience, having a pop up bathtub drain is incredibly convenient and makes bath time much easier. I don’t have to awkwardly reach down to pull out a stopper or worry about losing a separate plug. With just a simple push or lever, the drain opens and closes smoothly, giving me full control over filling or emptying the tub without any hassle.

Another reason I find a pop up drain necessary is the clean, sleek look it provides. It fits flush with the tub’s surface, so there’s no bulky stopper sticking out or dangling chain to deal with. This not only improves the bathroom’s overall aesthetic but also makes cleaning around the drain much simpler for me.

Lastly, I appreciate the reliability and durability that a good pop up drain offers. Unlike old-fashioned plugs that can wear out or get misplaced, the pop up mechanism stays firmly attached and functions consistently over time. For me, this means fewer repairs and less frustration, making it an essential feature in my bathtub setup.

My Buying Guides on Pop Up Bathtub Drain

When I decided to replace my old bathtub drain, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right pop up bathtub drain. After some research and personal experience, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you make a confident purchase.

Understanding What a Pop Up Bathtub Drain Is

A pop up bathtub drain is a type of drain stopper that you can open or close by pressing down on it or using a lever. I appreciate how convenient it is compared to traditional stoppers, as it makes filling and draining the tub quick and easy.

Types of Pop Up Bathtub Drains

  • Push-Button Style: This is the one I have; you simply press down to close or open the drain. It’s very straightforward and requires minimal effort.
  • Lever-Operated: This type uses a lever or a rod to control the drain. It’s a bit more complex to install but can be easier to operate if you prefer a handle.
  • Toe-Touch: Similar to push-button but designed to be opened or closed with your toe. I found this handy when my hands were full.

Material Matters

When I was choosing my drain, I paid close attention to the material. Common materials include:

  • Brass: Durable and rust-resistant, brass drains lasted the longest in my experience.
  • Stainless Steel: Also corrosion-resistant and looks sleek, though sometimes pricier.
  • Plastic: More affordable but not as durable; I avoided plastic for this reason.

Drain Size and Compatibility

One mistake I made initially was not verifying the size of my existing bathtub drain. Most pop up drains fit standard sizes (usually 1.5 inches or 1.25 inches in diameter), but it’s essential to measure your drain before buying. I recommend checking both the drain hole and the overflow hole compatibility.

Ease of Installation

I’m not a professional plumber, so I looked for a pop up drain that was easy to install with common household tools. Some products come with clear instructions and necessary components like plumber’s putty or gaskets, which helped me avoid leaks.

Maintenance and Cleaning

I chose a drain design that allowed easy removal for cleaning hair and debris. Some pop up drains come with a removable stopper, which makes maintenance much simpler.

Price Range and Warranty

Prices for pop up bathtub drains vary widely. I found good quality drains in the $20-$50 range. It’s worth investing a bit more for durability and a solid warranty. My drain came with a one-year warranty, which gave me peace of mind.

Final Tips From My Experience

  • Always double-check your tub’s specifications before purchasing.
  • Consider the style and finish to match your bathroom fixtures (chrome, brushed nickel, etc.).
  • Read customer reviews to learn about real-world performance.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask for help or watch installation videos if you’re unsure.

I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect pop up bathtub drain for your needs! It made a big difference in my bathroom’s functionality and ease of use.

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.