How to plug a bathtub without a plug
How to plug a bathtub without a plug?
by Shoshana
+15
Hey there, I'm in a bit of a pickle - my bathtub doesn't have a plug!
I don't want to rush out to the store to buy one if I can avoid it, so I'm hoping some DIY-savvy folks out there can help me out. Do you have any suggestions for how to plug a bathtub without a plug? What household items could I use to create a makeshift solution, and what specific steps should I take to make sure it works well and doesn't leak?
I'd really appreciate any detailed advice you can provide, as I'm in dire need of a relaxing bath. Thanks so much for your help!
Lowes or Home Depot sell bathtub and sink plugs.
This is what we use for our tub :https://amzn.to/3AwOQup It is essentially a round piece of soft plastic. The "pull" from the drain keeps it in place and leak proof so I'm thinking you may be able to find something around the house that could essentially do the same thing.
Cover the hole with any thin plastic . Saranwrap , or sandwich bag , plastic grocery bag anything . Then put a wet wash cloth ontop and stuff it down in the hole good and tight . Water won't leak out .
I bought a cover that fits over the drain and use that in my tub
https://www.ricksplumbing.com/blog/3-ways-to-block-a-bathtub-drain-without-a-plug/
Coffee can lid, plastic wrap, plastic bag, grocery bag.
Hi Shoshona, hope this helps you out.
Block a bathtub drain with a single-serve coffee cup or small plastic medicine cup. An empty pod (like a Keurig cup) or a 15 ml medicine cup may be just the right size to effectively block the drain. Firmly place the plastic pod or cup into the drain (bottom first) and begin filling the tub to see how well it holds
I use a rubber type "gripper" also used for opening lids on glass bottles for the first time. Just place it over the plug area and then use your bathtub. Remove when you want to drain. I use this little round in my shower each day so my feet are soaking in water while I shower.
They make plastic covers - check in your local home improvement store. In a pinch, use a plastic lid from a bowl.
You can get some silicone tub covers -- they're flat and just lay over the drain. They work really well as I have two.
Plugs are so cheap, but if you can find something heavy enough to cover the drain as a temporary answer then go ahead!
The Dollar Tree sells sink and bathroom plugs.
If you have anything with a flexible rubber top that will work. The cover that goes over a coffee mug to keep it warm comes to mind first. But anything that is slightly flexible and non porous will do. Worst case, turn a plastic mug upside down over it until you can pick on up. That will slow it down enough to allow you to take a soothing bath.
I would use one of those circular jar grips, you might moisten it to make a temporary seal.
They are really cheap why not just get one that fits your tub? I have tried other things in the past and usually after a while they lose the pressure seal that keeps them in place and they begin to leak.
This guide could help you out: https://www.ricksplumbing.com/blog/3-ways-to-block-a-bathtub-drain-without-a-plug/
All you need is a reliable lid that can cover the drain, such as the lid of a jar or other container. With one hand, position it over the aperture and keep it there. On the other hand, fill the bathtub up with water as you pour it over the cover. Check to see if the lid is airtight and free of holes.All you need is a reliable lid that can cover the drain, such as the lid of a jar or other container. With one hand, position it over the aperture and keep it there. On the other hand, fill the bathtub up with water as you pour it over the cover. Check to see if the lid is airtight and free of holes.