3 Ways to Block a Bathtub Drain Without a Plug

We all know one of the best ways to end a tiring day is to take a nice bath. For the best possible experience, the water level is the key. For this, one would want to prevent the draining of the water. However, you may not always have a bath plug to prevent the drainage and this doesn't really have to be a problem because you can make one! In this article, we will go over some solutions to temporarily use that will serve as a bath plug.

Functions of Bath Plugs

As we all know, the main purpose of a bath plug is to keep the water in the bath and prevent it from draining. It blocks the drain hole above the bathtub, creating a tight seal that prevents water from leaking through the opening. Plugs come in different forms and sizes, as well as different materials but serve the same purpose. Most bath plugs are long-lasting and can be used for years. If you notice any major wear on it, it's best to replace it. However, if you are in an emergency and need to use the bath as soon as possible and your bath plug isn't working, there are some things you can try out.

Empty Coffee Pod

A single-serve coffee cup or a little plastic medicine cup can be used to block a bathtub drain. Place the bottom of the cup in the drain hole and open the tap to see if the cup holds the water. If you notice it doesn't keep the water well enough, wrap a rubber band around the cup's body to make the seal firm.

A Lid

If the coffee cup doesn't work or you happen not to have any on hand, you can use a flat jam jar lid or a large plastic lid. Place the lid on the drain hole upside down. As you begin to fill the tub, press the lid down to create a better seal. The water's weight should eventually hold the cover in place.

Plastic Bag

If you stuff a washcloth or small sponge into a small plastic bag, this can serve as a drain plug. First, dampen a wet washcloth or a sponge and roll it according to the appropriate size so it can fit the drain and twist it. Afterward, put the sponge or the washcloth in a plastic bag. As you secure the plastic bag, make sure that you squeeze out as much air as you can otherwise bag may float if there's enough water in the tub. Finally, you can place the bag down the drain.

Replacing Your Plug

Anyone can make a drain plug from materials at home. It only requires materials found in most homes already to correctly cover the drainage hole, so it doesn't start to float at some point. Keep in mind that these solutions we mentioned here are short-term solutions. In the long term, a bath plug would be necessary. However, if your bathtub is problematic and you are having trouble plugging it, it is best to call the expert plumbers of Mr. Rooter Plumbing. You can call us not only for drain stopper installation but also for any other drain-related problems you might have such as drain cleaning. Contact us today!