A bath pop-up waste should match your tub’s drain layout, fit the space behind the tub, and work the way you prefer to open and close the drain. The options below include simple press-to-operate tip-toe stoppers and cable-driven systems with controls at the overflow plate. Before choosing, check your tub’s drain type, measurements, and whether the installation needs slip-joint or glue-fit connections.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Stopper style | Main material or feature | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artiwell Plastic Tubular Tip-Toe Drain Kit | Press-to-operate tip-toe | Plastic tubing; metal trim | Standard tubs with 14–16-inch depths |
| Artiwell Brass Tubular Tip-Toe Drain Kit | Press-to-operate tip-toe | Brass tubing and fittings | Those wanting a brass assembly and broader stated tub-depth range |
| Westbrass Illusionary Faceplate PVC Bath Waste | Press-to-operate tip-toe | Schedule 40 PVC; concealed-style overflow | A streamlined look and glue-fit installation |
| Westbrass 45-Inch Cable-Drive Trim Kit | Rotary cable control | PVC fittings; tubes not included | Controlling the stopper from the overflow plate |
| Westbrass Oil-Rubbed Bronze Cable-Drive Bath Waste | Handle-operated cable drive | Oil-rubbed bronze trim | Those seeking a coordinated dark finish |
Our Picks: Best Bath Pop Up Waste reviews
Artiwell Plastic Tubular Tip-Toe Drain Kit: A Straightforward Standard-Tub Option
This Artiwell kit combines a 1-1/2-inch plastic tubular waste-and-overflow assembly with a press-to-operate tip-toe stopper. Press the stopper once to hold water and press it again to open the drain. The kit includes the tubing, waste shoes, overflow parts, stopper, faceplate, and matching screws.
The maker describes it for standard tubs with depths of 14 to 16 inches. Slip-joint connections allow adjustment during fitting, but the stated depth range is narrower than the range for the brass Artiwell kit below. The listing describes metal trim in a Champagne Bronze finish alongside plastic tubing, so it may suit a bathroom where matching visible hardware matters more than having an all-metal drain assembly.
Its main trade-off is the plastic tubular construction. That may be a practical fit for a straightforward installation, but shoppers who specifically want brass tubing should consider the second Artiwell option. Check your tub’s measurements and connection layout before ordering.
Pros:
- Includes the main waste-and-overflow components and matching trim.
- Simple press-to-close and press-to-open stopper operation.
- Slip-joint connections allow fitting adjustments.
- Metal trim is described in a Champagne Bronze finish.
Cons:
- Stated for a 14–16-inch tub-depth range, which may not suit deeper tubs.
- The drain tubing is plastic rather than brass.
Verdict: Choose this kit if your tub fits the stated depth range and you want a tip-toe stopper with Champagne Bronze trim and plastic tubing.
Artiwell Brass Tubular Tip-Toe Drain Kit: A More Substantial Tubing Choice
This Artiwell set uses 1-1/2-inch brass tubing and brass waste-and-overflow components, with a tip-toe stopper that opens and closes when pressed. The kit also includes the waste shoes, overflow faceplate, and matching screws. Compared with the plastic Artiwell option, its key distinction is the brass assembly and a broader stated fit range.
The manufacturer lists compatibility with tubs 14 to 20 inches deep. The slip-joint design allows some adjustment without cutting, but the listed adjustment limits are up to 2 inches in height and 3/4 inch in length. For some shallow tubs, cutting the tubing may still be needed. Measure the installation carefully rather than relying on the word “universal” alone.
The listing describes the trim as available in different finishes, so confirm the finish selected if you are matching a faucet or spout. This kit is a strong option for shoppers who prefer brass tubing, while the Westbrass PVC choices may make more sense if your installation calls for glue-fit connections or a cable control.
Pros:
- Brass tubing and brass waste-and-overflow components.
- Stated for tubs 14–20 inches deep.
- Tip-toe stopper is operated with a press.
- Slip-joint connections provide some fitting adjustment.
Cons:
- Some shallow tubs may require cutting the tubing.
- Its adjustment range is limited, so careful measuring is important.
Verdict: This is the better Artiwell choice if you want brass tubing and your tub falls within the stated fit range.
Westbrass Illusionary Faceplate Bath Waste: A Clean-Looking PVC Assembly
This Westbrass assembly uses 1-1/2-inch Schedule 40 PVC pipe and fittings with a tip-toe drain plug. Its defining design feature is the “illusionary” overflow faceplate, which is described as having no visible holes for a more streamlined appearance. The stopper operates by pressing to seal and pressing again to release.
Unlike the Artiwell kits’ slip-joint connections, this assembly is designed for glue-in installation with primer and cement. That makes the connection method an important part of your decision: use it only if it suits your plumbing setup and installation plan. The description says it fits standard tub openings and can be adjusted or extended for different tub designs, but checking dimensions before purchase is still essential.
This pick favors a clean overflow look and a fixed glued connection over easy slip-joint adjustment or a remote cable control. If you need a cable-operated stopper or prefer slip-joint fittings, one of the other options may be a closer match.
Pros:
- Schedule 40 PVC pipe and fittings.
- Concealed-style overflow faceplate has no visible holes.
- Press-to-seal and press-to-open tip-toe operation.
- Designed for glue-in installation.
Cons:
- Requires primer and cement for installation.
- Does not offer the remote rotary control of the cable-drive options.
Verdict: Pick this Westbrass assembly if you want a low-profile overflow design and your installation is suited to glued PVC fittings.
Westbrass 45-Inch Cable-Drive Trim Kit: Overflow-Plate Control
This Westbrass kit uses a cable-driven stopper controlled by turning the rotary knob on the overflow cover. The listed assembly includes a 45-inch cable, brass rotary knob, standard pop-up stopper with strainer plate, and Schedule 40 PVC fittings. It differs from a tip-toe drain because you operate the stopper at the overflow plate rather than pressing the drain plug itself.
The glue-type fittings are intended to be secured with the appropriate plumbing method, and the product description says tubes are not included. Plan for those missing parts when checking what your installation requires. Its cable-driven setup may be useful when you want the control at the overflow, but it is less direct than a simple press-operated stopper.
Compared with the other Westbrass option here, this model specifies a 45-inch cable and a fixed top elbow with a cover mounting back plate. It does not provide the low-profile, hole-free overflow look of the illusionary-faceplate model.
Pros:
- Rotary overflow control operates the pop-up stopper.
- Includes a listed 45-inch cable, knob, stopper, and PVC fittings.
- Strainer plate is included with the stopper assembly.
Cons:
- Tubes are not included.
- Glue-type fittings may not suit installations designed for slip joints.
Verdict: Choose this kit if you want a cable-operated drain with rotary control at the overflow and can supply the required tubes.
Westbrass Oil-Rubbed Bronze Cable-Drive Waste: A Dark-Finish Option
This Westbrass bath waste pairs cable operation with oil-rubbed bronze trim. The product title identifies it as a 35-inch cable-drive bath waste, while the description says the cable is 27 inches long and also gives conflicting material details. Because those specifications do not agree, confirm the current product details with the seller before choosing it for a particular installation.
The listed trim includes a brass handle, standard pop-up stopper, and strainer plate. Turning the handle opens or closes the drain. The description also identifies a ball-joint top elbow with a handle-mounting back plate, which may matter when checking how the assembly fits your tub.
This model stands out most for its finish and handle-operated control. Its specification mismatch makes it harder to recommend for buyers who need a precise cable length or material, especially when the 45-inch Westbrass kit has a clearer cable-length specification.
Pros:
- Oil-rubbed bronze trim for a coordinated dark finish.
- Handle control operates the pop-up stopper.
- Includes a brass handle, stopper, and strainer plate.
Cons:
- The listed cable length conflicts: the title says 35 inches, while the description says 27 inches.
- The material description is also inconsistent, so verify specifications before ordering.
Verdict: Consider this model if its oil-rubbed bronze finish suits your bathroom, but confirm the cable and material details first.
How to Choose a Bath Pop-Up Waste
Match the Stopper Operation to Your Preference
A tip-toe stopper opens and closes when you press the drain plug, making it a simple choice when you want to operate the drain at the tub bottom. Cable-drive systems move the stopper using a control at the overflow plate. Decide which style you prefer, and check what type your existing tub and plumbing can accommodate before replacing parts.
Measure Your Tub and Check the Fit Range
Compare the product’s stated fit range with your tub’s depth and the space available for the waste-and-overflow assembly. The Artiwell plastic kit is described for 14–16-inch tub depths, while the brass version is listed for 14–20 inches. These stated ranges are not a substitute for checking your specific drain locations, pipe lengths, and clearances.
Choose the Right Connection Type
Slip-joint connections, like those on the Artiwell kits, allow adjustment with nuts and washers. The Westbrass illusionary-faceplate and cable-drive assemblies use glue-type fittings. Check your existing plumbing and installation plan before ordering; a connection that does not match your setup can add work or require additional parts.
Consider Tubing and Fitting Materials
The options here include plastic tubular components, brass tubing and fittings, and Schedule 40 PVC. Compare the product’s stated materials with your priorities and installation needs. Also pay attention to which parts are metal trim and which parts are the drain assembly itself, since those materials can differ within one kit.
Check What the Kit Includes
Some kits include the waste shoes, overflow parts, stopper, faceplate, and screws. The 45-inch Westbrass cable-drive kit specifically says tubes are not included, so account for that when planning the job. Read the included-parts list closely and confirm whether any extra tubing, fittings, primer, or cement is needed for your setup.
Make Sure the Finish and Specifications Are Clear
If the visible trim needs to match a faucet or spout, confirm the exact finish selected for the kit. Also check that cable length, material, and adjustment details are consistent. The Westbrass oil-rubbed bronze option has conflicting material and cable-length information in its supplied specifications, so verify those details before relying on them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bath pop-up waste?
It is a bathtub drain assembly that lets you hold or release water with a stopper. Depending on the design, you may operate it by pressing the stopper at the drain or by turning a control at the overflow plate.
Are tip-toe and cable-drive stoppers the same?
No. A tip-toe stopper is operated by pressing the stopper itself. A cable-drive system uses a knob or handle at the overflow plate to move the stopper through a cable.
Will any of these kits fit my bathtub?
Not necessarily. Fit depends on tub depth, drain and overflow locations, available space, and connection type. Check your tub’s measurements against the product specifications before buying.
What is the difference between slip-joint and glue-fit connections?
Slip-joint fittings connect with nuts and washers and allow some adjustment. Glue-fit fittings are secured with primer and cement. The right choice depends on your existing plumbing and installation plan.
Does the 45-inch Westbrass cable kit include all the tubing?
No. Its description says tubes are not included. Check the parts list and your installation requirements before ordering so you know what else you may need.
Which Artiwell kit has the broader stated tub-depth range?
The brass tubular kit is listed for tubs 14–20 inches deep, while the plastic tubular kit is listed for 14–16 inches. Measure your tub and check the adjustment limits, since some installations may still require cutting or other fitting work.
Which option is best if I want the overflow control at the tub’s rim?
The two Westbrass cable-drive options use controls at the overflow plate. The 45-inch kit has a rotary knob, while the oil-rubbed bronze model uses a handle; verify that model’s conflicting cable and material specifications before ordering.
Final Recommendation
For a straightforward press-operated assembly, the Artiwell brass tubular kit offers the broadest stated tub-depth range among the two Artiwell options, while the plastic version may suit a standard tub in its narrower listed range. Choose the Westbrass illusionary-faceplate model for its streamlined overflow design and glue-fit construction, or a cable-drive option if you prefer overflow-plate control. Whichever style you choose, confirm measurements, connection type, included parts, and finish before purchase.
