Plunger-type Tub Drains

• 1). Remove the screws on the sides of the cover plate surrounding the lever. Carefully pull the whole assembly--coverplate, linkage and plunger--from the drain opening.
  
  
• 2). Pull any hair or debris from the plunger.
  
  
• 3). Dip a wire brush in vinegar and use it to clean the linkage and plunger.
  
  

Pop-up Tub Drains

• 1). Raise the lever to open the drain completely. Carefully pull the stopper and rocker arm from the drain opening. Use a wire brush to clean hair or debris from the rocker arm.
  
  
• 2). Remove the screws on the side of the cover plate and pull the entire assembly--cover plate, trip lever and linkage--out of the drain.
  
  
• 3). Remove any hair or debris caught in the wire coil at the bottom of the assembly.
  
  

Next Steps for Either Type

• 1). Run some water down the drain. If the drain does not clear quickly, the tub drain is clogged. Stuff a damp rag into the drain opening and use a plunger to clear the line.
  
  
• 2). If plunging does not solve the problem, you need to use a hand auger, sometimes called a "plumber's snake." Feed the end of the cable through the overflow opening at the top and crank clockwise until you feel firm resistance. Crank counterclockwise to withdraw the cable. Repeat until the drain runs freely.
  
  
• 3). Replace the drain assembly and reattach the cove plate.