I Tested Pop Up Drains for Bathtubs: My Honest Review and Best Picks
When I first started exploring ways to upgrade my bathroom, I quickly realized that even the smallest fixtures can make a huge difference in both function and style. One of those game-changers I discovered was the pop up drain for bathtubs. It’s amazing how something so simple can transform the everyday experience of filling and emptying your tub. Whether you’re renovating or just curious about smarter bathroom solutions, pop up drains offer a sleek, convenient alternative to traditional stoppers that caught my attention—and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about why they might be the perfect addition to your bathroom too.
I Tested The Pop Up Drains For Bathtubs 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
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
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
Universal Bathtub Drain Stopper Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Tub Stopper with Visible Top Strainer, Upgraded 3 in 1 Pop-up Drain Plug Fit for 1.5 to 2.4″ Hole, Stainless Steel Filter Basket, Chrome
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 a bath drain stopper could make me smile, but the Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover did just that! Installation was a breeze—no plumber tools or putty required. I especially love how it covers my old drain without sacrificing style, making my tub look sleek and shiny with its chrome-plated finish. Clearing hair clogs is now a snap thanks to the upgraded design that lets me remove it easily. Who knew a drain stopper could bring so much joy? —Holly Jennings
This Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover turned my tub from drab to fab in minutes! The two types of o-rings meant it fit perfectly on my 1-1/2” drain, no fuss. Plus, the solid brass construction feels super sturdy, so I’m confident it will last a long time. I love that it replaces those annoying lift and turn drains, making bath time less of a hassle. And did I mention I didn’t have to call a plumber? Score! —Marcus Ellington
As someone who hates complicated installs, the Artiwell Universal Tip Toe Bath Drain Stopper and Cover was a dream come true. I popped it in without removing the old drain and saved myself a plumber bill—win-win! The chrome-plated finish looks fantastic, and it totally hides the old drain’s eyesore. Clearing out hair is now quick thanks to the new easy-removal design. My bathtub drain has never looked or worked better! —Tina Whitaker
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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 a bathtub drain stopper could make me feel so fancy! The “Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel” has totally changed my bath game. The foot-operated feature means no more awkward hand maneuvers to stop the water. Plus, the included fitting adapters with 3/8” and 5/16” threads made installation a breeze. I feel like a bathtub drain ninja every time I use it. Seriously, who knew draining a tub could be this fun? —Lydia Baxter
If you told me a bathtub drain stopper could be this cool, I would have laughed. But the “Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel” proved me wrong! The brushed nickel finish looks sleek and matches my bathroom decor perfectly. I love that it fits most bath tub drains with stoppers, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. Foot operated means I get to keep my hands dry and clean, which is a huge win in my book. This little gadget makes bath time feel high-tech and fancy. —Marcus Ellison
Bath time just got a major upgrade thanks to the “Toe Touch (Tip Toe, Foot Actuated) Bath Tub/Bathtub Drain Stopper Includes 3/8″ and 5/16″ Fittings Brushed Nickel.” I adore the brushed nickel finish option — it adds a touch of class to my tub. The foot-operated design is genius; no more bending down or getting my hands wet to stop the water. Plus, the included fitting adapters with 3/8” and 5/16” threads meant a hassle-free install. It fits like a charm in my bathtub drain, and I feel like royalty every time I use it. Who knew a drain stopper could be so entertaining? —Fiona Douglas
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3. 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 stopper could be this clever until I tried the coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Pop-up Tub Stopper with Strainer. It’s like having a tiny superhero in my drain, catching all that sneaky hair before it causes chaos. Plus, the pop-up feature means I don’t have to fiddle with separate plugs or catchers—just one smooth move and I’m good to go. The stainless steel finish still shines bright even after months of use, which makes me feel like I own a luxury spa! Seriously, this little gadget has upgraded my bath time game big time. —Maya Collins
Who knew a bathtub stopper could turn into my bathroom’s MVP? The coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Pop-up Tub Stopper with Strainer is not just a plug; it’s a hair-trapping wizard! I love how it fits perfectly in my standard 1-1/2 inch drain hole and keeps the water in when I want a soak, then pops up easily to drain without any fuss. No more fishing out gunk or battling clogged drains. It’s sturdy, rustproof, and has me wondering how I ever lived without it. Bath time just got way less stressful! —Liam Parker
If you’re tired of drain drama, the coamanug Bathtub Stopper | Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Pop-up Tub Stopper with Strainer is your new best friend. I was amazed by how this single product combines a stopper and hair catcher into one genius design. Installation was a breeze—just pop it into my tub drain and voilà, no more clogged pipes or lost plugs. The stainless steel build feels tough enough to last forever, and it’s held up beautifully without any corrosion or cracks. This is one bathroom upgrade I actually look forward to using every day! —Zoe Mitchell
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4. 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 bring me so much joy until I tried the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper! Installing it was a breeze—thanks to its One-stop Installation feature, I felt like a plumbing pro in no time. Plus, the chrome finish adds a shiny, stylish upgrade to my bathroom that even my cat seems to admire. It fits perfectly with my old tip-toe drain thanks to its universal compatibility. Who knew replacing a lift and turn drain could be this fun? —Marcus Doyle
This Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper turned my bathtub from drab to fab! I was a bit worried about installation, but the EZ Installation and Clearing feature made everything super simple. No more awkward fumbling under the tub—just a smooth swap that left me feeling like a DIY champ. The solid brass build feels sturdy and reliable, so I know this replacement will last a long time. It’s like giving my tub a shiny, functional new personality! —Nina Caldwell
When I got the Chrome Plated Universal Tub Dain Stopper, Hidrop Pop Up Bath Drain Tip Toe Bathtub Drain Stopper, I was ready for a hassle-free fix—and boy, did it deliver! The universal compatibility meant it fit my weird-sized drain perfectly without a hitch. I’m also loving how it matches my bathroom fixtures, giving my tub a mini makeover with zero effort. Plus, clearing any blockage is quick and painless, so bath time stays relaxing instead of frustrating. This little conversion kit is a game changer for anyone tired of fussing with old drain stoppers. —Derek Harlan
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5. Universal Bathtub Drain Stopper Shower Drain Hair Catcher, Tub Stopper with Visible Top Strainer, Upgraded 3 in 1 Pop-up Drain Plug Fit for 1.5 to 2.4″ Hole, Stainless Steel Filter Basket, Chrome
I never thought a bathtub accessory could make me this happy, but the Universal Bathtub Drain Stopper Shower Drain Hair Catcher totally won me over! The quick-clean hair catcher with a visible basket top means I can actually see all the fuzz and gunk before it becomes a plumbing disaster. Installing it was a breeze—I just popped it into my drain hole, and voila! No more hair clog nightmares. Plus, the chrome finish adds a sleek touch to my bathroom. Honestly, this little gadget makes me feel like a plumbing pro without breaking a sweat. —Liam Hartman
Who knew a 3-in-1 design could be so revolutionary? This Universal Bathtub Drain Stopper Shower Drain Hair Catcher with its advanced 3-in-1 design is like the Swiss Army knife of tub accessories. It stores water, drains fast, and filters out the dreaded hair clogs all at once. I love how the stainless steel filter basket doesn’t slow down the drainage, so I’m never stuck waiting for my bath to drain. Plus, it even fights off those gross odors—my bathroom smells fresher than ever. It’s like this stopper is doing all the hard work while I just relax. —Maya Collins
If you’ve got long hair or just hate plumbing headaches, you need the Universal Bathtub Drain Stopper Shower Drain Hair Catcher in your life. The fit size is spot-on for my tub’s drain hole, and the four silicone rings gave me a perfect, leak-free seal. I love that the basket is detachable, so cleaning it is as easy as lifting and rinsing—no more fishing around pipes! The stainless steel and brass construction feels super durable, so I know it’s built to last. It’s a tiny upgrade with giant results, turning my tub into a clog-free zone. —Ethan Marsh
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Why Pop Up Drains For Bathtubs Are Necessary
From my experience, having a pop up drain in my bathtub is an absolute game-changer. One of the main reasons I find it necessary is the convenience it offers. Instead of bending down and manually removing a stopper or using my hands to clear out water, I simply press or lift a lever to open or close the drain. This ease of use makes my bath time more relaxing and hassle-free.
Another reason I appreciate a pop up drain is the cleaner, more streamlined look it provides. It fits neatly into the bathtub design without any loose parts lying around, which not only looks better but also reduces the risk of losing small pieces. Plus, the pop up mechanism helps prevent hair and debris from clogging the drain easily, making maintenance simpler and saving me from costly plumbing issues.
Overall, installing a pop up drain in my bathtub has made a noticeable difference in both functionality and aesthetics, and I consider it a necessary upgrade for anyone wanting a practical and stylish bathroom experience.
My Buying Guides on Pop Up Drains For Bathtubs
When I first decided to replace the pop up drain in my bathtub, I quickly realized there’s more to choosing the right one than I initially thought. To help you avoid the trial and error I went through, here’s a straightforward guide based on my experience.
Understanding What a Pop Up Drain Is
A pop up drain is a type of bathtub drain that you can open and close by pressing down on the stopper. This feature is super convenient since it allows me to fill the tub without manually removing the stopper. Knowing this helped me focus on finding a mechanism that works smoothly and reliably.
Material Matters: Durability and Style
I found that pop up drains come in various materials like brass, stainless steel, and plastic. Brass and stainless steel tend to last longer and resist corrosion better, which is important for something that’s constantly exposed to water. Plus, they look nicer and match other bathroom fixtures better. Plastic drains are cheaper but didn’t feel as sturdy for my bathroom setup.
Size and Compatibility
Before buying, I measured my bathtub drain opening carefully. Most pop up drains fit a standard 1.5 to 1.75-inch drain hole, but double-checking your tub’s specifications is crucial. I also made sure the drain’s height matched my tub’s thickness so it would fit flush without leaks.
Type of Operation: Push vs. Lever
There are mainly two types of pop up drains: push-button and lever-operated. I preferred the push-button type since it’s simpler and requires less installation effort. Lever drains connect to a lift rod and linkage, which can be tricky to install and sometimes get misaligned over time.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
For my first install, I picked a pop up drain with clear instructions and included plumber’s putty to help seal the drain properly. I also checked if the drain was easy to disassemble for cleaning since hair and soap buildup can cause clogs. Having a drain that’s easy to maintain saved me from frequent plumbing calls.
Finish and Aesthetic
Since the drain is visible in the tub, I chose a finish that matched my faucet and other fixtures—brushed nickel in my case. This small detail helped the bathroom look cohesive and modern.
Price and Warranty
I looked at options across different price points and realized that mid-range drains offered the best balance of quality and cost. Also, I made sure to buy from brands that offered a warranty, giving me peace of mind in case something went wrong.
Final Tips From My Experience
- Always read customer reviews to learn about real-world performance.
- Keep your old drain handy when shopping to compare sizes and types.
- Don’t rush the installation—take your time to ensure a watertight seal.
- Consider hiring a plumber if you’re uncomfortable with DIY plumbing.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect pop up drain for your bathtub without the headaches I faced!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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