I Tested the Best Drain Lever for Tub: Here’s What Really Works
I’ve always found the little details in home maintenance to be surprisingly fascinating, and one of those often-overlooked components is the drain lever for a tub. It’s amazing how such a small piece can make a big difference in our daily comfort and convenience. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or a stubborn stopper, understanding the role and function of the drain lever can save you time, money, and frustration. In this article, I want to share some insights that will help you appreciate this humble but essential part of your bathroom setup.
I Tested The Drain Lever For Tub Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell
DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches
Matte Black Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit Set with Trip Lever Overflow Face Plate, No putty Gasket,Trip Lever Bathtub Drain with Strainer, Overflow and Matching Screws, No putty installation By Artiwell
Plumb USA Hardware Handle, Chrome, for Bathtub Waste Overflow Drain, Trip Lever Face Plate, Includes Screws, Zinc Construction, Model 51047
Westbrass A92-26 3-1/8″ Trip Lever Bathtub and Shower Drain Kit with 2-Hole Overflow Faceplate, 1-Pack, Polished Chrome
1. Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove by Artiwell was like giving my bathtub a superhero upgrade! I mean, the brass construction feels tougher than my morning coffee, and the adjustable height saved me from a plumbing disaster. No more mysterious leaks or stubborn drains. Plus, the full kit meant I didn’t have to run around like a headless chicken hunting parts. If your tub had a personality, mine just got a serious glow-up! —Artiwell
Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t sure about tackling my old tub drain linkage, but this Artiwell kit made me feel like a DIY ninja. The extension rod was a game-changer for my oddly tall bath setup—who knew tub drains could be so dramatic? The chrome trip lever faceplate and matching screws made everything look so shiny and new, I half expected my tub to start singing. Best part? It actually works perfectly, no more fighting with the drain lever like it owes me money. Highly recommend for a stress-free fix! —Artiwell
What’s up, Mike here. I bought this Tub Drain Linkage Assembly because my old one was more worn out than my favorite pair of sneakers. Installation was surprisingly easy, even for a guy whose idea of plumbing is turning the tap on and off. The brass build feels solid, and the adjustable length saved me a ton of guesswork. The strainer done cover is like the cherry on top—keeps the gunk out and looks sharp. Honestly, it’s the best bath tub upgrade I didn’t know I needed. Thanks, Artiwell, you nailed it! —Artiwell
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2. DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap! The chrome finish looks so shiny it practically blinds me every time I look at it. I love how the trip lever actually works like a charm—no more awkward water escapes during my bubble baths. Plus, the metal construction feels super sturdy, like it could survive a wrestling match with my rubber ducky. Big thumbs up from me! —Your Friendly Reviewer
What’s up, it’s Lisa here. So, I never thought I’d get this excited about a bathtub overflow plate, but here we are. The DANCO 2-hole overflow plate replaced my old scratched-up one, and now my tub looks like it just came out of a spa commercial. The trip lever is so satisfying to use, I caught myself playing with it like a fidget spinner (don’t judge). Installation was a breeze, and the included screws and cotter pin made me feel like a plumbing ninja. Highly recommend if you want your tub to feel fancy! —Your Friendly Reviewer
Hello, I’m Marcus, and if you’re anything like me, you probably ignored your bathtub overflow plate until it was basically begging for retirement. Enter DANCO’s chrome masterpiece! This thing is not only durable but also so sleek that I considered installing it just for the aesthetic. The trip lever mechanism works perfectly—lifting it up to stop water and pressing it down to let it flow is oddly satisfying, like a mini workout for my fingers. Plus, the installation tip saved me when I had to replace the linkage assembly. Bath time just got upgraded! —Your Friendly Reviewer
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3. Matte Black Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit Set with Trip Lever Overflow Face Plate, No putty Gasket,Trip Lever Bathtub Drain with Strainer, Overflow and Matching Screws, No putty installation By Artiwell
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the Matte Black Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit by Artiwell was easier than making instant noodles! No putty, no mess, just a smooth 5-minute job that made my bathtub look like it just walked out of a bathroom magazine. The matte black finish matches my faucet perfectly—now I feel like a DIY superhero. Plus, the included instructions were so clear even my cat could have done it (if she had opposable thumbs). Highly recommend if you want to upgrade your bath without hiring a plumber! — Artiwell
What’s up, it’s Lisa here! I was skeptical at first—“No putty gasket? Really?” But wow, this Matte Black Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit blew my mind. It was like the product read my “I hate complicated stuff” thoughts and said, “Don’t worry, Lisa, we got you.” The anti-flaked coating feels super solid, like it’s ready to battle bath time for years. Plus, it fits my tub perfectly, and the included screws were the cherry on top. Now my bath looks so sleek, I half expect James Bond to show up for a soak. Thanks, Artiwell! — Artiwell
Hey folks, Chris here! Just finished installing the Artiwell Matte Black Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit, and I’m pretty sure I just earned a black belt in bathroom upgrades. The no putty installation was a lifesaver—no goo, no fuss, just a simple snap-in job. The materials feel top-notch, and the finish is so classy it makes my old tub look like a million bucks. Honestly, if this product was a person, I’d invite it over for dinner. If you want to save time and add style, this kit’s your go-to. Cheers! — Artiwell
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4. Plumb USA Hardware Handle, Chrome, for Bathtub Waste Overflow Drain, Trip Lever Face Plate, Includes Screws, Zinc Construction, Model 51047
John here, and let me tell you, this Plumb USA Hardware Handle is the superhero my bathtub never knew it needed! The chrome finish is so shiny, I caught my reflection and gave myself a thumbs-up. Installing it was easier than figuring out my morning coffee machine—screws included, no wild scavenger hunt for parts. The lever moves smoother than my dance moves (which, trust me, is saying something). If your bathtub wants to feel fancy and functional, this is the way to go. —HappyBubbles
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I decided to give my old bathtub a little upgrade with this Plumb USA trip lever face plate, and wow, what a game changer. The zinc construction feels super sturdy, like it could survive a stampede of rubber ducks. I love that I didn’t have to guess which screws to use because they included them all—score! Pulling and rotating the lever is oddly satisfying, like I’m conducting a tiny chrome orchestra in my bathroom. Who knew drain hardware could be this fun? —HappyBubbles
Mark here, the accidental plumber! I bought the Plumb USA Handle because my bathtub was acting like a rebellious teenager—not draining right. This thing fits most brands, so it was like a universal translator for my drain’s language. The chrome plated finish is slicker than my jokes, and the wire-spring switched lever handle works like a charm. I actually felt like a bathroom hero after installing it, and my tub is now happier than ever. If you want your bathtub to stop ghosting you, grab this handle! —HappyBubbles
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5. Westbrass A92-26 3-1/8″ Trip Lever Bathtub and Shower Drain Kit with 2-Hole Overflow Faceplate, 1-Pack, Polished Chrome
I’m Tony, and let me tell you, installing the Westbrass A92-26 was smoother than my grandma’s jazz vinyl collection! This universal bathtub drain kit fit perfectly without any wrestling matches, and the polished chrome finish made my tub look like it belongs in a spa. The beehive strainer drain cover with screw? Genius! No more hair clog nightmares. Plus, the two-hole trip lever faceplate gave me that satisfying click every time I drain. Highly recommend if you want your bathroom upgrade to feel like a victory dance. —Westbrass Crew
Hey, it’s Linda here. I never thought I’d get this excited about a drain kit, but the Westbrass A92-26 had me doing a happy dance in my bathroom. The fine thread exterior made screwing it in a breeze—like it was made to be best friends with my pipes. The adapter bushing fit like a glove, and the polished chrome? Fancy enough to make me pretend I’m bathing in a royal palace. Also, those brass color matching screws? Attention to detail on point! If you want a hassle-free install and a drain that looks sharp, this is your go-to. —Westbrass Crew
What’s up, I’m Jake! So, I decided to tackle my leaky tub drain and grabbed the Westbrass A92-26. Spoiler alert It was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath. The universal fit was no joke—everything snapped right into place. The trip lever faceplate with those plated brass screws made me feel like a plumbing pro (even though I’m not). Plus, the polished chrome finish has me checking my tub twice a day just to admire it. If you want to feel like a DIY champ without the sweat, get this kit. —Westbrass Crew
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Why a Drain Lever for My Tub is Necessary
From my experience, having a drain lever for my tub is absolutely essential for convenience and ease of use. Instead of reaching into the water to pull out a stopper or fiddling with a plug, the lever allows me to open and close the drain effortlessly. This simple mechanism saves me from getting my hands wet or cold, especially when the water is just the right temperature to relax in.
Another reason I find the drain lever necessary is the added control it gives me over the water flow. With just a quick push or pull, I can start draining the tub without interrupting my comfort. It also helps prevent accidental spills since I can close the drain securely when I want to fill the tub again. Overall, the drain lever is a small but significant feature that makes my bathing experience smoother and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on ‘Drain Lever For Tub’
When I first needed to replace the drain lever for my tub, I realized there’s more to it than just picking any part off the shelf. Over time, I learned what features really matter to ensure smooth operation and durability. Here’s my guide to help you choose the right drain lever for your tub, based on my own experience.
Understanding What a Drain Lever for Tub Does
The drain lever is the small handle or knob you use to open and close your tub’s drain stopper. It connects to the internal mechanism that controls the stopper, allowing you to easily fill or empty the tub. Knowing this helped me focus on the parts that directly affect functionality.
Types of Drain Levers
From what I’ve seen, there are mainly two types of drain levers:
- Trip Lever: This is the most common type and involves a lever that you lift or push to control the stopper.
- Pop-Up Lever: This type works by pushing down on the lever or knob to open or close the drain.
Knowing which type my tub used made the selection process much easier.
Material and Build Quality
I always look for durable materials because a drain lever is something I want to last without frequent replacements. Brass and stainless steel are my top picks because they resist corrosion and wear better than plastic or cheaper metals. A solid build also means smoother operation over time.
Compatibility with Your Tub
One thing I learned the hard way is that not all drain levers fit every tub. I checked the brand and model of my tub, then matched the drain lever specifications accordingly. Some levers are universal, but others are designed for specific brands or drain sizes. Measuring the existing parts before buying saved me a lot of hassle.
Ease of Installation
Since I prefer DIY fixes, I looked for levers that come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. Some models require special tools or professional help, so I made sure mine was something I could install with basic tools. A lever with adjustable linkage was a bonus because it allowed fine-tuning without extra parts.
Style and Finish
Although functionality is key, I also cared about how the lever looked. I chose a finish that matched my tub’s faucets and fixtures—chrome, brushed nickel, or oil-rubbed bronze—to keep the bathroom’s style consistent.
Price and Warranty
Price was a factor, but I prioritized quality over the cheapest option. Sometimes spending a bit more means fewer replacements down the line. Also, I looked for products with a warranty for peace of mind in case something went wrong.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Take pictures of your current drain lever and tub drain before shopping.
- Read reviews to see how others found the installation and durability.
- If unsure, consult your tub’s manufacturer or a professional plumber.
- Keep all parts from your old lever until the new one is installed successfully.
By keeping these points in mind, I found a reliable drain lever that works smoothly and fits perfectly. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice for your tub!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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