Product reviewPlumbing & Water

Best Tub Drain and Overflow Kit: Top Picks Compared for Fit and Finish

Updated 10 min read

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Choosing the best tub drain and overflow kit starts with matching the kit to your tub’s drain size, depth, and plumbing layout. The options below include slip-joint kits in plastic or brass, plus a glue-in PVC assembly, with different stopper styles and finishes. Check the fit requirements before ordering, especially if you’re replacing an existing drain rather than installing one on a new tub.

Quick Comparison

ProductConstructionStopperBest For
Artiwell Black Tubular Bath Drain KitPlastic tubing, metal trimTip-toeBlack hardware and standard-depth tubs
Citymoor Brushed Gold Drain and Overflow KitMetalTip-toeBrushed-gold trim and compatible waste openings
Artiwell Brass Tubular Bath Drain KitBrass tubing and metal trimTip-toeBrass construction and a broader stated tub-depth range
Westbrass Black Tubular Waste and OverflowPolypropylene tubing, metal trimTip-toeA 14-inch black tubular assembly
Westbrass PVC Bath Waste and OverflowSchedule 40 PVCTip-toeA glue-in installation and a clean overflow look

Our Picks: Best Tub Drain And Overflow Kit reviews

1. Artiwell Black Tubular Bath Drain Kit: Best for Black Fixtures

This Artiwell kit combines black-finish trim with 1-1/2-inch plastic tubular plumbing. The package includes the waste and overflow tubing, drain shoe, stopper, overflow faceplate, and matching screws, so the main drain and overflow parts come together in one assembly.

The tip-toe stopper opens and closes with a press: press once to hold water and press again to let it drain. Artiwell describes the kit as fitting most standard tubs with depths from 14 to 16 inches. Its slip-joint connections allow adjustments to the tubing, which can help when the drain assembly needs to be aligned with the tub.

The main trade-off is material. The tubing is plastic, while the stopper and overflow trim are metal. If you want brass tubing or need to accommodate a deeper tub, the brass Artiwell option below has a wider stated depth range. This black kit is a practical match when finish coordination and a standard tub depth matter most.

Pros:

  • Includes the main waste, overflow, stopper, and trim components.
  • Black metal trim helps coordinate with black bathroom hardware.
  • Tip-toe stopper has a simple press-to-open, press-to-close operation.
  • Slip-joint connections allow adjustment for the stated tub-depth range.

Cons:

  • Plastic tubing may not suit shoppers looking specifically for a brass assembly.
  • Its stated 14- to 16-inch tub-depth range is narrower than the brass Artiwell kit’s.

Verdict: Choose this kit if you want black trim, a complete component set, and a standard tub-depth fit.

2. Citymoor Brushed Gold Kit: Best for a Metal Finish

Citymoor’s kit is a metal tip-toe drain and overflow assembly with a brushed-gold finish. The brand describes it as compatible with bathtub drain brands and designed for 1-3/8-inch or 1-1/2-inch waste sizes. Those sizing details are useful, but you should still compare them with your tub and existing plumbing before ordering.

The stopper is operated by pressing it with your toe to hold or release water. That straightforward mechanism avoids a separate lift handle. The metal construction and corrosion-resistant finish are intended for a wet environment, while the brushed-gold appearance makes this option worth considering when you want the drain trim to match other gold-toned fixtures.

The product information does not give a tub-depth range or list the individual connection parts in as much detail as the Artiwell kits. Confirm that the assembly suits your tub’s layout and installation conditions before you buy. It may also be less suitable if you need a specific pipe material or an overflow style that is not shown in the product details.

Pros:

  • Metal construction with a brushed-gold finish.
  • Designed for 1-3/8-inch or 1-1/2-inch waste sizes.
  • Tip-toe stopper provides press-to-close and press-to-open operation.
  • Made for replacing compatible drain assemblies without replacing the tub.

Cons:

  • The supplied product details do not specify a tub-depth range.
  • Verify the full plumbing layout and included connections before purchase.

Verdict: Consider the Citymoor kit if brushed-gold metal trim is your priority and its waste-size compatibility matches your tub.

3. Artiwell Brass Tubular Kit: Best for Brass Construction

This Artiwell assembly uses 1-1/2-inch brass tubing and includes brass waste and overflow parts, a tip-toe stopper, an overflow faceplate, and matching screws. It is the most complete choice in this group for shoppers who want brass throughout the main tubular drain assembly rather than plastic tubing paired with metal trim.

Artiwell lists a tub-depth range of 14 to 20 inches. The slip-joint connections allow some adjustment, and the product description says some shallow tubs may require cutting the tubes. Check the measurements and available clearance before installation; adjustability does not mean every tub configuration will fit without changes.

The stopper works by pressing it to hold water and pressing it again to drain. The trade-off is that brass construction may be more than you need if your main goals are a particular finish or a basic replacement. Compared with the black Artiwell kit, this option gives you brass tubing and a broader stated depth range, but you should confirm that its finish works with your fixtures.

Pros:

  • Brass tubing and brass drain components.
  • Stated to fit tubs 14 to 20 inches deep, with adjustments available.
  • Includes the waste, overflow, stopper, faceplate, and matching screws.
  • Tip-toe stopper has a simple press-to-operate design.

Cons:

  • Some shallow tubs may require the tubing to be cut.
  • Confirm the finish and fit for your exact tub before purchasing.

Verdict: Pick this kit if brass tubing and the wider stated tub-depth range are more important than choosing a basic plastic-tube assembly.

4. Westbrass Black Tubular Assembly: Best for a 14-Inch Kit

Westbrass pairs 1-1/2-inch polypropylene tubing with black trim for a dark, coordinated look. The kit includes 14-inch tubing, slip-joint washer seals, a two-hole elbow, a drain shoe, a tee, and a two-hole overflow faceplate. Its tip-toe plug is pressed to seal or release the drain.

The two-hole faceplate and included screws are worth checking against your tub before ordering, since the overflow cover needs to match the tub’s existing mounting arrangement. The tubing size and 14-inch length also make it important to compare the assembly with your drain and overflow measurements rather than assuming it fits every standard tub.

Unlike the Artiwell black kit, this Westbrass option specifies a 14-inch tube length and a two-hole faceplate. That added detail can help if those features match your current setup, but it may be a limitation if you need a different faceplate arrangement or more flexibility in the tubing length.

Pros:

  • Black trim with 1-1/2-inch polypropylene tubing.
  • Includes the drain shoe, tee, elbow, overflow cover, and washer seals.
  • Two-hole faceplate design is clearly specified.
  • Tip-toe plug uses a press-to-seal and press-to-release action.

Cons:

  • The listed tubing length is 14 inches, so check it against your tub layout.
  • The two-hole faceplate may not match every existing overflow arrangement.

Verdict: This is a sensible option if you need black trim, a 14-inch tubular assembly, and a two-hole overflow faceplate that matches your tub.

5. Westbrass PVC Assembly: Best for a Glue-In Setup

This Westbrass kit uses 1-1/2-inch Schedule 40 PVC pipes and fittings. It also has an “illusionary” overflow design with no visible holes, which gives the tub a more streamlined look. The stopper is a larger European-style tip-toe closure that presses to seal and presses again to open.

Unlike the slip-joint assemblies in this list, this kit uses glue-in installation with primer and cement. That can suit a plumbing setup designed for glued connections, but it is not the same as a slip-joint kit that can be adjusted at its connections. Plan the fit and installation method carefully before starting.

The product description says it fits standard tub openings and can be adjusted or extended for various tub designs. Still, the right fit depends on your tub and plumbing layout. The hidden-hole overflow design may also be a poor match if you want a conventional visible overflow faceplate.

Pros:

  • Schedule 40 PVC pipes and fittings.
  • Overflow design has no visible holes for a cleaner appearance.
  • Tip-toe stopper opens and closes with a press.
  • Designed for glue-in installation with primer and cement.

Cons:

  • Requires primer and cement rather than slip-joint connections.
  • The hidden-hole overflow style may not suit every tub or design preference.

Verdict: Choose this Westbrass kit when your installation calls for glued PVC connections and you want a less visible overflow opening.

How to Choose a Tub Drain and Overflow Kit

Confirm the Drain Size and Tub Measurements

Start by checking the drain opening, waste size, tub depth, and distance between the drain and overflow. The kits here do not all list the same fit range: some specify 1-1/2-inch tubing, Citymoor lists compatibility with 1-3/8-inch or 1-1/2-inch waste, and the Artiwell kits state different tub-depth ranges. Compare the product dimensions with your tub and existing plumbing before buying.

Match the Connection Style to Your Plumbing

Slip-joint assemblies use nuts and washers to connect sections, while the Westbrass PVC option calls for primer and cement. These methods are not interchangeable in every setup. If you are replacing an existing assembly, identify its connection type and check that the new kit’s parts will connect to your plumbing. Get help from a plumber if you cannot confirm the layout.

Choose Materials for Your Needs

The options include plastic or polypropylene tubing, brass tubing, metal trim, and Schedule 40 PVC. Review which parts use each material instead of judging a kit by its finish alone. For example, the Artiwell black kit combines plastic tubing with metal trim, while the Artiwell brass kit lists brass tubing and brass drain components.

Check the Stopper and Overflow Design

All five kits use a tip-toe stopper, operated by pressing the plug. Overflow designs differ: some use a faceplate with visible holes, while the Westbrass PVC kit has a no-visible-hole design. Check the number and placement of faceplate holes on your tub so the replacement cover can mount properly.

Consider Finish and Appearance

Drain and overflow trim is visible, so look for a finish that works with your faucet, shower hardware, and other bathroom fixtures. The choices here include black and brushed gold, as well as other finish options described for the Artiwell brass kit. Confirm the exact finish offered on the product page, since the tubing material and trim appearance are separate considerations.

Plan for Installation and Adjustments

Some kits include adjustable slip-joint connections, while others require cutting or glued connections. Read the fit details before starting and make sure you have the right tools and materials for the installation method. A drain that does not align with the tub or waste pipe can leak, so call a qualified plumber if you are unsure about the measurements or connection work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tub drain and overflow kits universal?

Not always. Some kits are described as fitting standard tubs, but sizes, tub depth, faceplate holes, and connection styles vary. Check the kit’s stated fit range against your tub and plumbing before ordering.

What is a tip-toe tub drain stopper?

A tip-toe stopper is operated by pressing it. In these kits, one press closes the drain to hold water and another press opens it to let water drain.

How do I know what size tub drain kit I need?

Measure or identify the drain and waste opening size, tub depth, and the distance between the drain and overflow. Compare those measurements with the kit’s product details. If you cannot identify your existing plumbing, ask a plumber to check it.

Is brass or plastic better for a tub drain assembly?

It depends on the parts and your priorities. Brass tubing is available in the Artiwell brass kit, while other options use plastic, polypropylene, or PVC tubing. Check the material of the full assembly and make sure its connection style and fit suit your installation.

Can I install a tub drain and overflow kit myself?

Installation depends on your plumbing experience and the kit’s connection method. Slip-joint kits use nuts and washers, while the Westbrass PVC kit requires primer and cement. If the parts do not align, or you are unsure how to make watertight connections, hire a plumber.

What does a two-hole overflow faceplate mean?

It means the overflow cover mounts with two screw holes. The Westbrass black tubular kit includes a two-hole faceplate, so check that your tub’s mounting arrangement matches before you order.

Can I replace only the tub stopper?

Possibly, but it depends on whether the stopper can be replaced separately and whether the existing drain components are compatible. If the tubing, overflow, or connections also need replacement, a complete assembly may be more suitable.

Conclusion

The Artiwell brass tubular kit is a strong choice if you want brass tubing and a stated 14- to 20-inch tub-depth range. For black trim, consider the Artiwell plastic-tubing kit or the Westbrass 14-inch assembly, depending on your measurements and faceplate layout. Choose the Citymoor option for brushed-gold metal trim, or the Westbrass PVC kit if your setup calls for glued connections and a less visible overflow. In every case, verify the fit and installation method before ordering.

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