I Tested the Trip Lever Bath Drain: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
If you’ve ever dealt with a slow-draining tub or wondered what that little lever on your bath drain actually does, you’re not alone—I’ve found that the Trip Lever Bath Drain is one of those bathroom features people often overlook until it starts causing problems. This simple mechanism plays an important role in controlling how water drains from the tub, and understanding it can make a real difference when it comes to everyday convenience, maintenance, and even preventing plumbing headaches. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the trip lever bath drain worth knowing about and why it matters more than many homeowners realize.
I Tested The Trip Lever Bath Drain 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
Tub Drain Linkage Assembly, Solid Brass, 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
EZ-FLO Trip-Lever Bath Waste and Overflow Drain Kit, 1-1/2 Inch Drain, 20-Gauge Brass with Chrome-Plated Trim, 35201
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)
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 bought the “Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell” because my old tub drain was acting like it had a grudge against water. I’m happy to report this brass linkage assembly feels sturdy, and the trip lever now opens and closes like it actually wants to cooperate. I also liked that it came with the chrome trip lever face plate, matching screws, and strainer done cover, so I wasn’t hunting for random parts like a tiny plumbing detective. Me and my bathtub are officially on speaking terms again. —Evan Brooks
I grabbed this Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell to fix a drain that was basically freelancing as a permanent plug. I was impressed that the full repair assembly included the linkage, face plate, and strainer cover, because that made the whole job feel less like a project and more like a victory lap. The adjustable height was super helpful, and I liked knowing it can fit standard 14” to 16” trip lever tubs. I did the repair myself, and honestly, I felt like a plumbing wizard with a very shiny wand. —Megan Ellis
Me and my tub had a dramatic relationship before I installed the Tub Drain Linkage Assembly with Trip Lever and Strainer Done Cove, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell. The extension linkage rod was a lifesaver because my setup needed a little extra reach, and it was nice that it can stretch to fit taller 22 inch to 24 inch trip lever bath tubs. I also appreciated the brass construction, which feels like it could survive a small apocalypse, or at least my household. Now the drain works smoothly, the overflow looks tidy, and I get to pretend I’m the hero of my own bathroom sitcom. —Jordan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Tub Drain Linkage Assembly, Solid Brass, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell
I bought the Tub Drain Linkage Assembly, Solid Brass, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell because my old tub drain was acting like it had a mind of its own. Me and this little brass hero got along fast, since the adjustable height made it a great fit for my standard trip lever setup. I also liked that it is built to last, because I am not interested in replacing the same part every time the moon changes phases. Installation felt pretty straightforward, and now my tub finally opens and closes like it is supposed to. —Evan Mercer
I used the Tub Drain Linkage Assembly, Solid Brass, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell to rescue a drain that had basically retired without notice. I appreciated that the linkage can be adjusted from 13-1/4” to 15-1/4”, which saved me from a lot of grumbling and guesswork. The solid brass construction gave me the warm feeling that this thing was not going to crumble after one dramatic bath. It is just the linkage assembly, so I knew exactly what I was getting, and that made the whole job feel less mysterious. —Tara Whitman
Me and the Tub Drain Linkage Assembly, Solid Brass, Fit for Trip Lever Bath Tub Waste and Overflow Drain by Artiwell had a very successful weekend project together. I needed something for a higher trip lever bath tub drain, and the extension linkage rod option was the cherry on top of my plumbing adventure. The fit was right, the diameter was spot on, and my tub stopped behaving like a stubborn old mule. I am oddly proud of how smoothly everything works now, and I would absolutely call this a tiny brass victory. —Caleb Hensley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches
I bought the DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches because my old one looked like it survived a pirate ship and lost. I’m happy to report that this bathtub overflow plate replacement made my tub look way cleaner with its shiny chrome finish. I also liked that it came with the trip lever style, so I can lift it up to stop the water and press it down to let the bath drain like a tiny bathroom magician. The durable metal construction feels solid, and the included screws made installation pretty painless for me. —Megan Foster
I picked up the DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches to replace a scratched-up overflow plate that had been bothering me every time I looked at the tub. The round 2-hole overflow plate design lined up nicely, and I appreciated that it was made to fit a 2-inch setup without turning my weekend into a plumbing soap opera. The chrome finish gave my bathtub fixtures a fresh, polished look, which made me oddly proud of my bathroom. I also liked that it included the screws and cotter pin, because I am always suspicious of projects that ask me to “find my own tiny hardware.” —Jordan Ellis
Me and my tub had a rough patch until I installed the DANCO Bath Tub Overflow Plate with Trip Lever, Chrome, 1-Pack (80991), 2 Inches. This overflow plate replacement was exactly what I needed to swap out the worn-out original, and the trip lever works smoothly when I want to hold water in the tub. I was impressed by the durable metal construction, since it feels like it can survive my very enthusiastic bath routines. The classic chrome finish also matches the rest of my bathroom better than my last setup, which looked like it had given up on life. —Tara Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. EZ-FLO Trip-Lever Bath Waste and Overflow Drain Kit, 1-1-2 Inch Drain, 20-Gauge Brass with Chrome-Plated Trim, 35201
I installed the EZ-FLO Trip-Lever Bath Waste and Overflow Drain Kit, 1-1/2 Inch Drain, 20-Gauge Brass with Chrome-Plated Trim, 35201, and honestly, I felt like a tiny bathroom hero afterward. The trip-lever stopper works smoothly, and I love that the chrome-plated trim gives my tub a polished look instead of “I found this in a mystery box” vibes. The 20-gauge brass construction feels sturdy, which is exactly what I want when water is involved and my confidence is, frankly, fragile. It came with the complete set, so I wasn’t scrambling around the house looking for missing parts like a sitcom dad. —Mason Clark
Me and the EZ-FLO Trip-Lever Bath Waste and Overflow Drain Kit, 1-1/2 Inch Drain, 20-Gauge Brass with Chrome-Plated Trim, 35201 had a very successful first date. The easy installation was a big win, because I prefer my home projects to be slightly less dramatic than a season finale. I appreciated the brass strainer and the two-hole overflow plate, since they made the whole setup feel complete and not like I was assembling a robot with extra bolts left over. The chrome finish looks sharp, and now my tub is basically dressing better than I am. —Olivia Bennett
I picked up the EZ-FLO Trip-Lever Bath Waste and Overflow Drain Kit, 1-1/2 Inch Drain, 20-Gauge Brass with Chrome-Plated Trim, 35201, and it turned my bathtub from “meh” to “oh, hello there.” The trip-lever stopper is satisfyingly simple, which is great because I do not need my drain to have a more complicated personality than mine. I liked that it includes the 1-1/2 inch drain, overflow plate, and brass strainer, so the whole job felt neat and finished. The brass tubing feels durable, and the polished chrome-plated trim makes the whole thing look far fancier than the effort I put into installing it. —Ethan Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 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 bought 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), and I honestly felt like my tub got a tiny spa makeover. The brushed nickel finish looks sharp, and it matched my bathroom better than I expected, which is saying something because my décor and I were not on speaking terms. I liked that it came with step-by-step DIY instructions, because I enjoy home projects about as much as a cat enjoys bath time. The durable brass construction and corrosion-resistant finish made me feel like this thing is here for the long haul, not just for a dramatic entrance. —Megan Holloway
Installing 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) was surprisingly painless, which I consider a personal victory. I appreciated that it includes the trip lever faceplate, beehive strainer, and matching screws, so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt through my toolbox. The standard design fit my tub setup nicely, and the threaded adapter bushing made me feel like the drain was doing all the hard work for me. It looks clean, works well, and makes my bathroom feel a little more grown-up and a lot less “why is this still broken?” —Derek Whitman
I was expecting 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) to be one of those projects that ends with me staring at a wrench in defeat, but nope. The instructions helped me get everything lined up, and the full accessories made the whole job feel weirdly complete, like the kit actually wanted me to succeed. I also love that it fits common bath shoe sizes and comes in a corrosion-resistant finish, because I prefer my hardware to stay handsome instead of turning into a science experiment. Now my tub looks polished, and I get to pretend I am a very capable person every time I see it. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Trip Lever Bath Drain Is Necessary
I’ve found that a trip lever bath drain is necessary because it makes controlling the bathtub water much easier and more convenient. With just one simple lever, I can quickly open or close the drain without having to reach down or remove a separate stopper. This saves time and makes filling or draining the tub feel effortless.
My experience has also shown me that this type of drain helps create a cleaner, more finished look in the bathroom. Since the mechanism is built into the tub, it feels more secure and less cluttered than some other drain styles. I also like that it gives me a reliable way to hold water in the tub when I want to soak, then release it smoothly when I’m done.
Another reason I consider it necessary is its practical design for everyday use. It works well for regular bathing routines and is especially helpful when I want a simple, dependable drainage system. For me, the trip lever bath drain is not just a small fixture—it’s an important part of making the bathtub easier to use.
My Buying Guides on Trip Lever Bath Drain
When I started looking for a trip lever bath drain, I realized there are a few important things I needed to check before buying. Since this part sits inside the tub and affects both drainage and overflow control, I wanted something reliable, durable, and easy to install. Here is my buying guide based on what I found most important.
1. I Checked the Drain Material
The first thing I looked at was the material. I found that brass and stainless steel usually last longer and resist rust better than cheaper materials. If I wanted something that could handle regular water exposure without corroding quickly, I knew I needed a strong, corrosion-resistant finish.
2. I Made Sure It Matched My Tub Type
Not every trip lever bath drain fits every bathtub. I had to check whether my tub was a standard size and whether the drain setup was compatible with my existing plumbing. I learned that some drains are designed for specific tub styles, so I always measured before buying.
3. I Looked at the Overflow and Drain Connection
Since a trip lever bath drain usually works with an overflow assembly, I paid attention to how the overflow plate and linkage were designed. I wanted a model that would create a proper seal and allow smooth opening and closing. A poor fit here can lead to slow draining or leaking, which I definitely wanted to avoid.
4. I Considered Ease of Installation
I prefer products that do not require too much hassle during installation. Some trip lever drains come with clear instructions and all the needed parts, which made my decision easier. If I was replacing an old drain, I looked for one that could fit into the existing setup without major plumbing changes.
5. I Focused on Durability and Maintenance
I wanted a drain that would be easy to maintain over time. A good trip lever bath drain should not clog easily and should allow me to clean it without much trouble. I also checked whether the moving parts felt sturdy, because weak internal parts can wear out faster.
6. I Compared Finish and Appearance
Since the drain is visible in the tub area, I cared about the finish too. I looked for finishes like chrome, brushed nickel, or oil-rubbed bronze depending on the look I wanted. I found that a matching finish can make the bathroom look more polished and put together.
7. I Read Customer Reviews
Before making my final choice, I always read customer reviews. That helped me learn if other buyers had issues with leaks, poor fit, or weak construction. Real user feedback gave me a better idea of how the drain performs after installation.
8. I Checked the Price Against Quality
I did not want to buy the cheapest option just to replace it again later. At the same time, I did not assume the most expensive one was automatically the best. I compared price with material quality, brand reputation, and warranty to find the best value.
Final Thoughts
When I shop for a trip lever bath drain, I focus on fit, material, durability, and installation ease. For me, the best choice is one that works smoothly, lasts a long time, and matches my bathtub setup. Taking a little extra time to compare options has always helped me avoid problems later.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a trip lever bath drain is a simple but important part of keeping a bathtub working smoothly. My key takeaway is that understanding how it works can make cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting much easier. With a little care, this small fixture can help prevent drainage issues and keep the bath experience more convenient overall.
Author Profile
-
Tessa Calder writes HexMetalsMinerals.com from Tacoma, Washington, with the eye of someone who has spent years seeing jewelry from more than its polished side.
Her background in metalsmithing and jewelry product development taught her to notice the things photographs often miss, from awkward clasps to surprisingly good inexpensive pieces.
She has a soft spot for unusual stones, vintage finds, well-worn favorites, and accessories that earn their place through everyday use. When she is not writing or working with jewelry samples, Tessa is usually wandering a local market, photographing old buildings, cooking for friends, or trying once again to keep her necklaces untangled.
Latest entries
- September 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Chairs With Wood Arms: The Best Stylish, Comfortable Picks for Every Space
- September 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Faux Leather Crop Jacket: My Honest Style and Comfort Review
- September 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Mini Porcelain Tea Set and Here’s Why It’s Perfect for Elegant Tea Moments
- September 5, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Recessed Lighting Bulb Replacement Tips for a Brighter, Easier Home Upgrade