The first step to repairing or replacing the drain hole in the bathroom is to remove the cover. If you've never done this, have nothing to fear. You don't need the help of a plumber or handyman to get it done. With the right tools and cleaning products, anyone can easily remove a drain cover!
Step
Method 1 of 3: Lubricating the Bathroom Drain
Step 1. Purchase a drain lubricant to loosen the cover
Old drains may not come off immediately after removing the screws. Purchase a drain or spray lubricant, such as WD-40, silicone grease, or PTFE. If the cover is rusty, we recommend using WD-40.
Do not pour oil or grease down the drain to loosen the cover
Step 2. Check for blockages in the drains before removing them
If the drain is badly clogged, you will need to unscrew it as wide as possible before removing the cover to avoid snagging. Turn on the faucet or shower head to check the ability of the drain to absorb water. If it seems clogged, try one of the following methods:
- Put a handful of baking soda and hot water down the drain.
- Pour 1 cup of vinegar and hot water down the drain.
- Use a drain snake tool to clean the clogged area.
Step 3. Dry the drain cover before applying lubricant
In order to secure the lubricant in the drain plug, it must be completely dry. Use a towel to dry the drain cover to remove any excess liquid and water before you proceed with the process.
Step 4. Coat the drain cover with lubricant
Apply a generous amount of lubricant over and around drains. Pour the lubricant directly into the hole as well so that the liquid reaches the deepest part. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before loosening the lid.
Method 2 of 3: Unscrew and Loosen the Drain Cover
Step 1. Check the location of the screws on the drain cover
Some drain covers are secured with screws, but some are fastened without them. If there are screws attached, use a screwdriver to loosen them.
Be careful not to drop the screw into the drain. Place the screws in a safe place outside the bathroom if you want to reinstall them later
Step 2. Insert 2 small pliers into the drain cover hole
Hold 1 small pair of pliers in each hand – you will need 2 small pliers to remove the drain cover. Find the two slits on either side of the drain cover, then place the tip of the pliers in the gaps.
Be careful when using pliers so you don't accidentally damage the drain cover
Step 3. Grasp the handle of the pliers firmly with both hands
Most drain covers are secured with screws so they must be removed first. Carefully turn the two handles to the left while starting to loosen the drain cover.
If the cover doesn't move at all, apply more lubricant
Step 4. Continue twisting the drain cover until it loosens completely
The drain cover can be removed from the screw that has been removed. Lifting the drain cover requires focus and hand strength. So, twist the cover to the right (to tighten it a bit more) until you're ready to lift it.
Method 3 of 3: Lifting the Drain Cover
Step 1. Grip the two pliers firmly and lift the drain cover from the hole
Lift the cover slowly so that it does not touch and damage. If it still feels stuck or is difficult to pull out, your drain may be badly clogged or rusty. Apply more lubricant or unblock the drain before removing it.
Step 2. Make sure your grip is consistent when removing the drain
Do not hold the pliers too tightly or too loosely as this may damage the cover. You may need to repeat the process if the object falls because the handle is too loose.
If you want to replace the drain cover with a new one, you can do this process more roughly
Step 3. Check the drain after removing it
If the water is clogged and you are planning to replace the drains in the bathroom, check for dirt, rust, or clogged areas. Sometimes, you can fix the part. Try to unblock, clean, or remove rust from the drain before draining it completely.
Step 4. Replace the non-repairable drain cover
Sometimes, rust or other damage may be too severe. Contact a plumber or home improvement specialist to determine what size or brand will fit the old drain, as well as install the item in the bathroom.
Tips
- If your drain is too rusty to remove or is badly clogged, hire a plumber to have it removed.
- Try to unblock the drain before replacing it with a new one. Sometimes, this method can make the old drain cover work like new again.
