You're Probably Using The Wrong Bathtub Drain Removal Tools And Here's Why

Bathtub drains can get clogged and dirty fairly easily, and they can be a pain to clean. This is especially frustrating when you do not have the best tools for the job. And, unfortunately, most people don't. If you want to do things the right way, put the pliers away. It is tempting to use tools you already have, but trying to remove a bathtub drain with pliers, though it may work in a pinch, can cause damage that will make your drain more difficult to maintain. Instead, consider picking up a tub drain wrench. They are fairly inexpensive and can save time and energy compared to other tools.

Bathtub drains can be quite fragile due to rust and deterioration over time, so using the wrong tool when you're fixing your slow-to-drain tub has the potential to harm the components. While some people — and even companies — recommend using locking needle nose pliers to remove drain baskets, pliers of any shape are not a great fit for this job because they put undue pressure on a part of the drain that is prone to breaking. Pliers do not fit the exact shape of the opening and only enter two of the four openings on a traditional drain basket shape, creating conditions that can break the crossbar, an important piece that helps prevent clogs. Tub drain wrenches, on the other hand, fit perfectly into the openings of a drain and reduce pressure on potentially fragile areas, making damage much less likely.

Using a tub drain wrench is one of the easiest way to remove an old bathtub drain, but it can be tough to justify buying a tool for one specific use. Luckily, you can find a wrench like the Hautmec Tub Drain Remover Wrench Tool for less than $10 on Amazon. This price isn't particularly high, but it seems like an even better deal once you consider that you'd need to purchase a specialty drain extractor tool that typically costs around $25 if you break the crossbars with pliers. You might even need to buy new parts, so the cost of using the wrong plumbing tools can add up.

If you want to care for your own bathroom, you need the right tools to avoid common bathroom plumbing mistakes. Bathtub drain removal wrenches are pretty particular tools, but they are probably worth it if you've got $10, frequent clogs, or old plumbing. Plus, most tub drain wrenches are two-sided and have a different size on each end. While it is still not the most versatile tool, you can use it on multiple drain sizes around your home. By investing in the correct tools, you can save yourself plenty of trouble down the line.