Today, we will be discussing how to remove a lift and turn the drain stopper. This is an important skill for every plumber or anyone who works with sanitaryware.
Removing the drain stopper can initially seem daunting, but it is pretty simple.
Just follow these steps and tips, and you’ll be able to do it in no time!
What is Lift and Turn Drain Stopper?
A lift and turn drain stopper is a type of sink drain plug that can be easily lifted and turned to open or close the drain. It is usually made from plastic or metal and has a rubber gasket around the edge to create a watertight seal.
This type of drain plug is popular because it is easy to use and can be quickly opened or closed without having to remove it from the sink. It is also less likely to get stuck in the drain than some other types of plugs.

How Does it Work?
The lift and turn drain stopper use a lever system to control the release of the plug. When you lift the lever and turn the stopper counterclockwise, it opens a small slit in the plug that allows water to drain through.
The plug closes back up when you release the lever and seal off the opening. This design prevents water from flowing back out of the sink after you’ve drained it.
It’s also worth noting that this drain stopper is often easier to use than some other designs out there. You don’t have to fumble with a small plug or try to get your fingers underneath it. The lever makes it easy to open and close without touching the dirty stopper.
Why Should You Remove the Lift and Turn Drain Stopper?

You should remove the lift and turn the drain stopper for a few reasons.
- If the stopper leaks, it may need to be replaced.
Leaking can occur if the rubber gasket around the plug’s edge wears out or something is blocking the drain. Either way, you’ll need to remove the stopper so that you can inspect it and make any necessary repairs.
- If the stopper is not draining properly, it may need to be cleaned.
Sometimes, hair or other debris can get caught in the drain and cause the stopper to become clogged. In this case, you’ll need to remove the stopper to clean out the drain.
- If you’re having trouble opening or closing the stopper, it may need to be adjusted.
The lever on the lift and turn drain stopper can sometimes become loose over time. You’ll need to remove the stopper to tighten the lever if this happens.
- If replacing the sink, you’ll need to remove the drain stopper.
If you’re installing a new sink, you’ll need to remove the old one first. This means you’ll also have to take out the drain stopper.
What Will You Need?
There are a few things that you’ll need to remove the lift and turn the drain stopper.
- A Phillips head screwdriver
- A flathead screwdriver
- A pair of pliers
- A rag or towel
How to Remove the Lift and Turn the Drain Stopper?
Now that you know why you might need to remove the lift and turn the drain stopper let’s go over how to do it.
Step One: Find the screws.
The first thing that you’ll need to do is locate the two screws that hold the stopper in place. These screws are usually located on the underside of the stopper.
Step Two: Remove the screws
Once you’ve found the screws, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove them. Don’t strip the heads of the screws.
Step Three: Pull out the stopper
After the screws are removed, pull out the stopper. If the stopper is stuck, you can use a flathead screwdriver to pry it loose.
Step Four: Inspect the drain
Once you’ve removed the stopper, look at the drain to see if anything is blocking it. If you see any hair or debris, use a pair of pliers to remove it.
Step Five: Clean the stopper
You can clean the stopper with a rag or towel if it is dirty. Dry off the stopper before putting it back in place.
That’s all there is to it! Now you know how to remove a lift and turn a drain stopper.
How to Clean the Stopper?
If you need to clean the stopper, there are a few things that you’ll need.
- A rag or towel
- Some soap
- Water
Instructions:
- Step #1 Wet the rag or towel: Start by wetting the rag or towel with some water. Use a mild soap if the stopper is particularly dirty.
- Step #2 Wipe down the stopper: Use the rag or towel to wipe down the stopper, being sure to get rid of any dirt or soap scum.
- Step #3 Rinse off the stopper: Rinse off the stopper with some clean water.
- Step #4 Dry off the stopper: Use a clean towel to dry off the stopper. Be sure to remove any water that’s pooled in the drain.
That’s all there is to it!
How to Adjust the Lever?
If you’re having trouble with the lever, you may need to adjust it.
- Step #1 Find the screws: You first need to locate the two screws that hold the lever in place. These screws are usually located on the underside of the stopper.
- Step #2 Loosen the screws: Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screws.
- Step #3 Adjust the lever: Once you’ve loosened the screws, you can adjust the lever to your desired position.
- Step #4 Tighten the screws: After adjusting the lever, use the screwdriver to tighten the screws.
That’s all there is to it!
How to Put the Lift and Turn the Drain Stopper Back in Place?
Now, let’s go over how to put it back in place.
Step One: Place the stopper in the drain
The first thing that you’ll need to do is place the stopper back in the drain. Make sure it’s positioned correctly before moving on to the next step.
Step Two: Insert the screws
Once the stopper is in place, insert the screws and tighten them with a Phillips head screwdriver.
Step Three: Test the stopper
After you’ve put the stopper back in place, test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Open and close the lever to see if the stopper moves up and down smoothly.
If everything is working correctly, then you’re all done! You now know how to remove a bathtub drain stopper and place it back.
Tips and Tricks:

You should know these tips and tricks to keep our stopper in the best condition:
- Check the screws regularly: Be sure to check the screws regularly to ensure they’re tight. Over time, they may become loose and need to be tightened.
- Clean the stopper: If it becomes dirty, you can clean it with a rag or towel.
- Don’t force it: If the stopper is stuck, don’t force it. Use a flathead screwdriver to make it lose.
- Check for debris: Before putting the stopper back in, check for any debris that may have caught in the drain. Remove anything that you find.
- Adjust the screws: If the stopper is still not working properly, you may need to adjust the screws. Turn them clockwise to tighten them or counterclockwise to loosen them.
- Adjust the lever: If it is not working properly, you can adjust it by moving it up or down.
Now you know how to remove a lift and turn the drain stopper. You can keep your sink in top condition.
Other Types of Drain Stoppers
There are many other types of drain stoppers. The common one includes:
- Push-pull tub stopper: The push-pull tub stopper is easy to remove. Grab the knob and pull it up.
- Pop-up drain stopper: The pop-up drain stopper is attached to a lever.
- Toe touch tub stopper: The toe touch bathtub drain is operated by a lever near the drain.
- Flip it drain stopper: The flip-it drain stopper is operated by a lever near the drain.
- Push-pull tub stopper: The push-pull tub stopper is easy to remove. Grab the knob and pull it up.
A lift and turn tub stopper is the most common type. All of these bathtub drain stopper have the same process to remove.

Best Lift and Turn Drain Stoppers
DANCO Lift and Turn Tub and Bath Drain Stopper
The DANCO Lift and Turn Tub and Bath Drain Stopper is our top pick because it is easy to use and versatile.
With a lift-and-turn style, it is easy to open and close the stopper, and the two thread sizes make it compatible with most tub drains. The stopper is also durable brass and comes in various finishes to match your fixtures.
Whether you’re looking to replace a worn-out stopper or upgrade to an easy-to-use lift-and-turn style, the DANCO Tub, and Bath Drain Stopper is a great option.
PF WaterWorks PF0950-BN Universal n Bathtub Drain Stopper
The PF Waterworks Universal Bathtub Drain Stopper is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-use, hand-operated drain stopper. This stopper is made from a metal alloy and features a brass fitting, making it very durable.
The finish is also very resistant to scratches and fading. In addition, the stopper comes with adapters to fit both 3/8″ and 5/16″ fittings. Installation is quick and easy, and the stopper works with all types of tubs. The universal design means that it will also fit most drain openings.
Overall, the PF Waterworks Universal Bathtub Drain Stopper is a great option for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use drain stopper.
Eastman 35233 Lift-n-Turn Bathtub Drain Stopper
The Eastman 35233 Lift-n-Turn Bathtub Stopper is a great addition to any home bathroom. It is made of durable brass and has a sleek, contemporary chrome finish that blends nicely with your faucet decor.
The brass clevis has adjusting holes in the silver bath drain protector kit for easy installation.
The kit includes (1) 1-1/2-inch x 11.5-course thread, (1) 2-7/8-inch outer diameter body flange, and (1) 5/16-inch tapped washer. The bathtub drain replacement kit is easy to use and install.

Wrapping Up:
Removing a lift and turning the tub drain stopper is not as complicated as it may seem.
With a little patience and some basic tools, you should be able to complete this task efficiently. Be sure to refer to the instructions in this post if you run into any trouble. Have fun removing bathtub drain stoppers!
Hofensanitary.com is a manufacturer and supplier of high-quality sanitaryware. If you have any questions or need help finding the right product for your needs, please contact us today. We’re always happy to help!