How to Remove a Lift & Turn Tub Stopper

To remove the lift-and-turn stopper, push the stopper down.

Lift-and-turn stoppers use a shaft that threads into a hole in the center of the drain basket. You cannot remove the lift-and-turn stopper with the stopper in the open position. You will need to close the stopper, and then remove it from the drain. Once you remove the stopper, you should replace the unit if the rubber seal is worn or has cracks. You can purchase replacement stoppers at home improvement stores.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Vise grips

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Instructions

1. Push the stopper down to fully seal the stopper against the tub drain.

2. Turn the knob on top of the stopper counterclockwise with your fingers. Do not lift the stopper while turning the knob. Remove the knob from the stopper.

3. Insert a large flathead screwdriver into the slot on the center shaft of the stopper. You will see the center shaft when you remove the knob. Turn the shaft counterclockwise to unthread it from the retaining hole in the bathtub drain basket.

4. Use a pair of vise-grip pliers to turn the shaft if the center hole has corrosion and will not accept a screwdriver. Lock the jaws of the pliers securely around the shaft, and turn the shaft counterclockwise.

5. Pull the stopper out of the tub by lifting it by the shaft.

Tips & Warnings

• Attempting to remove a lift-and-turn stopper in the open position with pliers can damage the stopper and the threads inside the drain basket.

References

• 101 Plumbing: Clearing Clogged Drains