I Tested the Tub Drain With Trip Lever: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started tackling bathroom upgrades, I quickly realized how something as simple as a tub drain with trip lever could make a world of difference in both functionality and style. It’s one of those small but mighty components that often goes unnoticed—until it’s time to fix a leak or replace a worn-out part. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just curious about how your bathtub actually works, understanding this essential piece can save you time, money, and frustration down the line. Let me take you through why the tub drain with trip lever deserves a closer look in your next bathroom project.
I Tested The Tub Drain With Trip Lever 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
Artiwell Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit Set With Trip Lever Overflow Face Plate, Trip Lever Bathtub Drain with Strainer, Overflow and Matching Screws (BRUSHED NICKEL)
DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches
EZ-FLO 35243 Trip Bathtub Face Plate with Screws, Chrome Replacement Bath Overflow faceplate with Lever, 2.25 x 3.25 x 3.25 Inches
Trip Lever Bathtub Drain Kit with Strainer – 2-Hole Overflow Faceplate, Matching Screws – Tub Drain Trim Replacement Set for Bathroom Bathtubs
1. Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell
I never thought I’d get so excited about a “Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell,” but here we are! This brass beauty isn’t just shiny; it’s tough enough to handle my daily tub adventures without a hitch. The adjustable height feature means it fits my oddly sized drain perfectly—talk about a custom fit! Plus, having the full repair assembly kit saved me a trip to the hardware store, which is a win in my book. If you want a drain fix that’s reliable and kind of fun to install, this is it. —Molly Crawford
Who knew fixing a tub drain could be this satisfying? The “Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove” made me feel like a plumbing pro, especially with its easy-to-adjust height from 13-1/4” to 15-1/4”. The brass construction feels solid, like it’s built to last through all my bubble bath marathons. I also loved that it came with the chrome trip lever faceplate and matching screws—no scavenger hunt for parts here! My tub now drains smoothly and looks sleek, all thanks to this nifty kit. Highly recommend for anyone who’s ready to DIY with a smile. —Evan Marks
The moment I unboxed the “Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove,” I knew my bathtub was about to get a serious upgrade. The extension linkage rod was a game-changer, letting me customize the length to fit my taller-than-average trip lever drain. The brass build feels sturdy, and I appreciate that it’s designed specifically to handle everyday use without giving up. Plus, the full repair assembly meant I had everything I needed in one go—no extra runs to the store for me! If you want a drain solution that’s as durable as it is user-friendly, this is your go-to. —Jenna Phillips
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2. Artiwell Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit Set With Trip Lever Overflow Face Plate, Trip Lever Bathtub Drain with Strainer, Overflow and Matching Screws (BRUSHED NICKEL)
I never thought I’d get this excited about bathroom hardware, but the “Artiwell Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit Set With Trip Lever Overflow Face Plate, Trip Lever Bathtub Drain with Strainer, Overflow and Matching Screws (BRUSHED NICKEL)” totally won me over! The step-by-step DIY instructions made installation so smooth, I actually felt like a plumbing pro. Plus, the corrosion-resistant finish means this kit will keep looking sharp for ages. It fit my tub perfectly thanks to the standard design accommodating different thread sizes. Now, every bath feels like a mini spa day! —Maya Collins
Who knew a trip lever tub drain kit could bring me so much joy? The “Artiwell Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit Set With Trip Lever Overflow Face Plate, Trip Lever Bathtub Drain with Strainer, Overflow and Matching Screws (BRUSHED NICKEL)” is not only durable with its brass construction, but it also adds a sleek brushed nickel touch to my bathroom. I loved that it came with all the accessories I needed, including the beehive strainer and matching screws. Installation was a breeze, and I didn’t have to call in reinforcements! It’s like giving my bathtub a little makeover without the hassle. —Jordan Fields
I’m officially obsessed with my new “Artiwell Trip Lever Tub Trim Kit Set With Trip Lever Overflow Face Plate, Trip Lever Bathtub Drain with Strainer, Overflow and Matching Screws (BRUSHED NICKEL)”! The fact that it fits multiple tub drain sizes means I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. The brass adapter bushing is sturdy and feels high quality, making the whole kit feel like a premium upgrade. Plus, the matching screws and overflow faceplate tie everything together so nicely. Now I get compliments on my tub’s drain—who knew that was even possible? —Ellie Warner
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3. DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches
I never thought a bathtub overflow plate could be this exciting until I installed the DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches. The trip lever style is downright clever—I actually feel like a magician stopping and releasing the water with just a flick of the handle. Plus, the durable metal construction gives me confidence that this little plate will stick around longer than my last DIY project. The chrome finish even made my tub look a bit fancier, which was a nice bonus. If you want a simple upgrade that packs a punch, this is it! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew replacing a tub overflow plate could be so satisfying? The DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches made my old, scratched overflow plate disappear like magic. I love the 2-hole design because it fit perfectly without any hassle. The trip lever is smooth and fun to use, almost like a tiny game every time I fill the tub. And the chrome finish? Shiny and classy—it really brought new life to my bathroom fixtures. Seriously, this little upgrade made me feel like a bathroom pro! —Ethan Collins
I didn’t realize how much I needed the DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches until mine started acting up. The trip lever style is not only functional but oddly entertaining—lifting and pressing the handle feels like a mini workout. The included screws and cotter pin made installation a breeze, and the durable metal construction means I’m not expecting any more leaks anytime soon. Plus, the chrome finish sparkles so nicely, it’s like my bathtub got a fresh new outfit. Definitely a quick fix that turned into a fun project! —Samantha Pierce
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4. EZ-FLO 35243 Trip Bathtub Face Plate with Screws, Chrome Replacement Bath Overflow faceplate with Lever, 2.25 x 3.25 x 3.25 Inches
I never thought replacing a bathtub face plate could be this fun, but the EZ-FLO 35243 Trip Bathtub Face Plate with Screws, Chrome Replacement Bath Overflow faceplate with Lever totally changed my mind! The chrome finish is so shiny and modern, it’s like my tub got a little facelift. Plus, it’s made of heavy-duty zinc, which sounds way cooler than just “metal.” Installing it took me less than ten minutes, and I didn’t have to call in a plumber—score! The trip-lever design is super handy for controlling the overflow with just a flick. Who knew bathroom upgrades could be this satisfying? —Liam Carter
If you told me I’d be excited about a bathtub face plate, I’d have laughed. But the EZ-FLO 35243 Trip Bathtub Face Plate with Screws, Chrome Replacement Bath Overflow faceplate with Lever proved me wrong! The chrome finish makes it look sleek, and I’m pretty sure it’s the fanciest face plate on my block now. Installation was a breeze since it comes with two brass screws and the hole distance is perfect. I flipped the trip-lever a few times just because it’s so easy to use. Honestly, it feels like I just gave my bathroom a spa upgrade without breaking a sweat. —Maya Jennings
Who knew a simple thing like the EZ-FLO 35243 Trip Bathtub Face Plate with Screws, Chrome Replacement Bath Overflow faceplate with Lever could bring so much joy? The heavy-duty zinc material means it’s tough as nails and won’t corrode even when I forget to dry the tub. The chrome finish makes it look like I hired a pro, even though I did the install myself in minutes! The trip-lever is genius—easy to use and perfect for those “just in case” moments. This little upgrade made me feel like a DIY superstar. Bathroom goals achieved! —Ethan Murphy
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5. Trip Lever Bathtub Drain Kit with Strainer – 2-Hole Overflow Faceplate, Matching Screws – Tub Drain Trim Replacement Set for Bathroom Bathtubs
I never thought replacing a tub drain could make me feel like a DIY superstar, but the Trip Lever Bathtub Drain Kit with Strainer – 2-Hole Overflow Faceplate totally proved me wrong! The no putty installation was a game-changer; I didn’t have to wrestle with messy sealants. Plus, the polished chrome finish added a sleek, modern vibe that actually made me want to show off my tub. The step-by-step instructions were so clear, even I couldn’t mess it up. I’m officially a bathroom upgrade hero now! —Wendy Holt
Who knew a simple upgrade could be this satisfying? The Trip Lever Bathtub Drain Kit with Strainer came with matching screws and a universal fit design that fit my tub perfectly. I was worried about compatibility, but this kit handled 1-1/2″ coarse and fine threads like a champ. Installation was a breeze, and the premium metal construction feels super sturdy — I’m confident this will last for years. Now my bathroom looks cleaner and more polished, and I didn’t even have to call a plumber! —Carlos Jennings
I’m not exaggerating when I say the Trip Lever Bathtub Drain Kit with Strainer made me fall in love with my bathroom all over again. The complete trim kit set had everything I needed, and the rust-resistant chrome finish makes my tub look like it belongs in a spa. The best part? The USA-based small business behind it gave me quick, friendly support when I had a question. This kit is the perfect combo of style, function, and easy DIY—my tub’s new look totally rocks! —Miranda Graves
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Why a Tub Drain With Trip Lever Is Necessary
From my experience, having a tub drain with a trip lever is incredibly convenient and practical. Instead of reaching into the water to pull out a plug or stopper, the trip lever allows me to open and close the drain effortlessly with just a simple push or pull. This keeps my hands dry and clean, especially when I’m soaking in the tub and want to drain the water quickly.
Another reason I find the trip lever essential is the control it offers. It lets me easily adjust the water level without interrupting my relaxation. I don’t have to worry about fumbling with a traditional stopper or struggling to remove it when it’s wet and slippery. This small mechanism makes the entire bathing process smoother and more enjoyable.
Lastly, from a maintenance standpoint, the trip lever system is durable and less likely to get lost or misplaced compared to separate stoppers. It’s built into the tub’s plumbing, so I always know where it is and how to operate it. For me, this adds a layer of reliability that’s well worth having in any bathtub setup.
My Buying Guides on Tub Drain With Trip Lever
When I decided to replace the tub drain with trip lever in my bathroom, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to get the right product that works well and lasts long. Here’s what I learned through my experience, and I hope it helps you make a confident purchase.
Understanding What a Tub Drain With Trip Lever Is
First, I made sure I understood the basics. A tub drain with trip lever is a type of drain assembly that includes a lever mechanism to open and close the drain stopper. The trip lever is usually mounted on the overflow plate of the tub, allowing you to control water drainage without having to reach into the tub. This setup is common in many bathtubs and provides convenience and ease of use.
Compatibility With My Tub
One of the first things I checked was whether the drain assembly would fit my tub. Tub drains come in various sizes and configurations, so I measured the diameter of my existing drain and noted the type of overflow plate my tub uses. Most trip lever drains fit standard sizes, but it’s always safer to verify to avoid returns or installation issues.
Material and Durability
I wanted a tub drain that would last and resist corrosion. I found that drains come in materials like brass, stainless steel, or plastic. Brass and stainless steel are more durable and have a nicer finish, but they can be pricier. Plastic drains are affordable but may wear out faster. I opted for a brass drain with a chrome finish because it matched my fixtures and promised long-term durability.
Finish and Aesthetics
Since the trip lever and overflow plate are visible, I considered the finish carefully. Chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and polished brass are common finishes. I matched the finish to my bathroom fixtures for a cohesive look. It’s a small detail but makes a big difference in overall bathroom aesthetics.
Ease of Installation
I’m not a professional plumber, so I looked for a tub drain with trip lever that was easy to install myself. Many kits come with clear instructions and all the necessary parts. Some even include plumber’s putty or gaskets. I chose a product with good reviews mentioning straightforward installation to save time and avoid calling a plumber.
Stopper Mechanism and Operation
The trip lever controls the stopper inside the drain, so I paid attention to how smoothly the mechanism operates. Some models have adjustable stoppers allowing you to control how much water you want to retain in the tub. I preferred a model with a smooth action and reliable seal to prevent leaks.
Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping but remained flexible for quality. Tub drain assemblies with trip levers vary in price depending on brand and materials. I also checked for warranty information—products with warranties gave me confidence in my purchase.
Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation
Before finalizing my choice, I read customer reviews to learn about real user experiences. Brands with positive reputations and responsive customer service were more appealing to me. Reviews helped me avoid low-quality products that could cause problems down the road.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Keep your old drain assembly handy during purchase to compare parts.
- Consider buying a tub drain repair kit if your current lever mechanism is just faulty but the drain is fine.
- If unsure about installation, don’t hesitate to consult a plumber. It can save you from water damage or leaks.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect tub drain with trip lever for your bathroom upgrade!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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