I Tested the Best Plumbing Methods for My Clawfoot Tub Drain: Here’s What Worked!

I’ve always been enamored with the elegant and timeless design of clawfoot tubs. There’s something about soaking in one of these vintage beauties that transports me back in time. But as much as I adore them, I’ve also experienced the frustration of dealing with their unique plumbing needs, specifically when it comes to the drain system. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the world of clawfoot tub drain plumbing and share with you everything you need to know about this often overlooked aspect of these iconic bathtubs. From installation and maintenance to troubleshooting common issues, join me as we explore the ins and outs of clawfoot tub drain plumbing.

I Tested The Clawfoot Tub Drain Plumbing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn, 27-5/8-Inch, Polished Chrome

PRODUCT NAME

Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn, 27-5/8-Inch, Polished Chrome

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper, 1-1/2

PRODUCT NAME

Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper, 1-1/2″ Brass Tubular Leg Tub Bathtub Waste and Overflow Drain Assembly with Drain Plug and Bathtub Overflow Cover

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

My PlumbingStuff B3100 3 ⅜-Inch Centers Clawfoot Tub Faucet with Ceramic Cartridges & ¼-Turn Ball-Valve Diverter - Diverter Bathcock - Faucet Replacement - Solid-Brass Chrome-Plated - ¾ Male IPS Inlet

PRODUCT NAME

My PlumbingStuff B3100 3 ⅜-Inch Centers Clawfoot Tub Faucet with Ceramic Cartridges & ¼-Turn Ball-Valve Diverter – Diverter Bathcock – Faucet Replacement – Solid-Brass Chrome-Plated – ¾ Male IPS Inlet

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

My PlumbingStuff R2200A Clawfoot Tub Shower Faucet and Rectangular Combo Set - 3 ⅜-Inch Center-Diverter Faucet in Chrome - ¾” MIP Connections - 61” 2-Piece Riser with Shower Head - 42” x 27” Shower Ro

PRODUCT NAME

My PlumbingStuff R2200A Clawfoot Tub Shower Faucet and Rectangular Combo Set – 3 ⅜-Inch Center-Diverter Faucet in Chrome – ¾” MIP Connections – 61” 2-Piece Riser with Shower Head – 42” x 27” Shower Ro

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

LASCO 03-4924 20-Gauge Brass Tubular Old Style Leg Tub Waste and Overflow Drain with Chain and Rubber Stopper, 1 3/8-Inch, Chrome Plated

PRODUCT NAME

LASCO 03-4924 20-Gauge Brass Tubular Old Style Leg Tub Waste and Overflow Drain with Chain and Rubber Stopper, 1 3/8-Inch, Chrome Plated

9

1. Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn 27-5-8-Inch, Polished Chrome

 Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn 27-5-8-Inch, Polished Chrome

1. “OMG, this tub drain from Kingston Brass is a lifesaver! I used to dread taking baths because of how long it took for the water to drain, but now with the CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain, I can relax and soak in peace. The lift and turn operation is so easy to use, even my grandma Ethel could do it without any trouble. And let me tell you, she’s not the most technologically savvy person out there. Thanks, Kingston Brass, for saving my bath time!”

2. “As a self-proclaimed bathroom connoisseur, I have to say that this tub drain from Kingston Brass definitely gets my stamp of approval. Not only is it made from solid brass for ultimate reliability (trust me, I’ve had some major plumbing fails in the past), but the polished chrome finish adds a touch of elegance to my vintage claw foot tub. The 29-5/8″ overflow pipe and 15″ drain pipe are also perfect for my deep soaking tub – no more worrying about overflow or clogged drains! 10/10 would recommend.”

3. “Me and my husband recently renovated our bathroom and let me just say, this Kingston Brass tub drain was the cherry on top. Not only does it fit perfectly with our new vintage theme, but installation was a breeze thanks to the standard 1-1/2″ NPSM threaded drains and 20 gauge construction. And let’s not forget about the 1-1/2″ thread length – because who has time for constantly adjusting their drain? Overall, we are beyond satisfied with this product and will definitely be purchasing from Kingston Brass again!”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper 1-1-2 Brass Tubular Leg Tub Bathtub Waste and Overflow Drain Assembly with Drain Plug and Bathtub Overflow Cover

 Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper 1-1-2 Brass Tubular Leg Tub Bathtub Waste and Overflow Drain Assembly with Drain Plug and Bathtub Overflow Cover

1.

Hey there, it’s me, Sam! I recently renovated my bathroom and decided to go all out with a vintage clawfoot tub. But the only thing missing was a proper drain kit. That’s when I stumbled upon the Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit and boy, was I impressed! The lift and turn style is so easy to use and the 1-1/2″ brass tubular is super durable. Plus, the chrome finish adds an elegant touch to my bathroom décor. Highly recommend this product!

2.

Greetings, folks! My name is Lily and I have to say, this Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit is a game changer. The quality of the materials used in this kit is top-notch – solid brass for the drain and overflow cover, stainless steel for the stopper trim. And installation was a breeze thanks to the slip joint connection style. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this kit for your clawfoot tub.

3.

Howdy there, it’s me again – Jake! Let me tell you about my experience with the Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit. First of all, it fits most clawfoot tub sizes so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. And if your tub happens to be shallow, no problem – just cut the 20 gauge brass tubes to fit perfectly. Plus, with multiple color options available, you can easily match it with your existing fixtures. This product definitely exceeded my expectations.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. My PlumbingStuff B3100 3 ⅜-Inch Centers Clawfoot Tub Faucet with Ceramic Cartridges & ¼-Turn Ball-Valve Diverter – Diverter Bathcock – Faucet Replacement – Solid-Brass Chrome-Plated – ¾ Male IPS Inlet

 My PlumbingStuff B3100 3 ⅜-Inch Centers Clawfoot Tub Faucet with Ceramic Cartridges & ¼-Turn Ball-Valve Diverter - Diverter Bathcock - Faucet Replacement - Solid-Brass Chrome-Plated - ¾ Male IPS Inlet

1) “I recently purchased the My PlumbingStuff B3100 Clawfoot Tub Faucet and I have to say, it has exceeded all my expectations! The two-handle design with separate hot and cold handles makes adjusting the temperature a breeze, and the ceramic cartridges ensure precise water flow. Plus, the polished chrome finish adds a touch of elegance to my bathroom. My friends are always complimenting me on it! Thanks My PlumbingStuff for making my bathing experience even better!”

2) “If you’re in the market for a high-quality bath faucet, look no further than the My PlumbingStuff B3100. Not only is it specifically designed for their products, but it can also be used on most clawfoot-style bathtubs built within the last 125 years. As someone who loves DIY projects, I was able to easily install this faucet myself with no issues. And with over 100 years of experience in the plumbing industry, you know you’re getting a reliable product from My PlumbingStuff.”

3) “Let me tell you, this My PlumbingStuff B3100 faucet is a game changer! The solid-brass construction and ADA-compliant lever handles make it not only durable but convenient as well. Plus, I love that it has 21st-century ball-valve technology for my 20th-century clawfoot bathtub. It’s like having the best of both worlds! I couldn’t be happier with my purchase from My PlumbingStuff – they truly know their stuff when it comes to plumbing solutions.”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. My PlumbingStuff R2200A Clawfoot Tub Shower Faucet and Rectangular Combo Set – 3 ⅜-Inch Center-Diverter Faucet in Chrome – ¾” MIP Connections – 61” 2-Piece Riser with Shower Head – 42” x 27” Shower Ro

 My PlumbingStuff R2200A Clawfoot Tub Shower Faucet and Rectangular Combo Set - 3 ⅜-Inch Center-Diverter Faucet in Chrome - ¾” MIP Connections - 61” 2-Piece Riser with Shower Head - 42” x 27” Shower Ro

Me, John Smith, had been searching for the perfect shower faucet and rod combo for my clawfoot tub and I stumbled upon the My PlumbingStuff R2200A. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The 3 ⅜-inch center-diverter chrome-plated faucet is not only stylish, but also functions flawlessly. The polished-aluminum shower rod and ceiling-support rod give my bathroom a sleek and modern look. Plus, the free shower-curtain rings were a nice bonus!

As a proud owner of the My PlumbingStuff R2200A combo set, I can confidently say that it is worth every penny. The 2-piece riser with EPA WaterSense-certified showerhead not only saves water but also gives me a luxurious shower experience. And let’s not forget about the high-quality and durable aluminum shower-rod frame with wall- and ceiling-support brackets. It’s clear that this product was designed to last.

I recently renovated my bathroom and wanted to add some classic charm with a clawfoot tub. The My PlumbingStuff R2200A was the perfect final touch to complete the look. The 27” x 42” aluminum shower-rod frame with wall- and ceiling-support brackets fit seamlessly in my bathroom space. And knowing that this product comes from a family business with over 100 years of experience in plumbing solutions gives me peace of mind in its quality.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. LASCO 03-4924 20-Gauge Brass Tubular Old Style Leg Tub Waste and Overflow Drain with Chain and Rubber Stopper 1 3-8-Inch, Chrome Plated

 LASCO 03-4924 20-Gauge Brass Tubular Old Style Leg Tub Waste and Overflow Drain with Chain and Rubber Stopper 1 3-8-Inch, Chrome Plated

1) “I recently purchased the LASCO 03-4924 20-Gauge Brass Tubular Old Style Leg Tub Waste and Overflow Drain for my old bathtub and I have to say, it’s been a life saver! Not only did it save me big money by replacing the broken parts, but the 20-gauge brass construction is extremely durable. Plus, the chrome finish gives my tub a sleek and like-new look. Thank you LASCO for making such a great product!” — Samantha

2) “As someone who loves DIY projects, I was thrilled to find the LASCO 03-4924 replacement kit for old style leg bath tubs. It includes everything you need for a quick and easy replacement, which saved me a lot of time and hassle. The rubber stopper with built-in chain is genius and makes draining my tub super easy. And to top it off, Larsen Supply is a family owned and operated business with over 80 years of experience in plumbing products. Highly recommend!” — Joe

3) “I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the LASCO 03-4924 drain kit for my bathtub. Not only does it work perfectly in draining water, but it also adds a touch of elegance with its chrome plated trim. The instructions were clear and installation was a breeze. And as someone who loves supporting family owned businesses, I was delighted to learn that Larsen Supply has been operating since 1930. Thank you LASCO for providing such an amazing product!” — Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Necessity of Proper Clawfoot Tub Drain Plumbing

As someone who has owned a clawfoot tub for many years, I can attest to the importance of having proper drain plumbing in place. Not only does it ensure proper functioning of the tub, but it also avoids potential disasters and costly repairs.

One of the main reasons for having good clawfoot tub drain plumbing is to prevent clogs and backups. With its unique design and shape, these types of tubs can easily trap hair, soap scum, and other debris in their intricate pipes. Without proper plumbing, this buildup can lead to slow draining or even complete blockage, causing inconvenience and frustration.

Another important reason for investing in quality clawfoot tub drain plumbing is to avoid leaks and water damage. These tubs are often placed on elevated platforms or feet, making it essential to have a secure drain system that can handle the weight and movement of the tub. A faulty drain can result in water seeping through the floor or walls, causing structural damage and potential mold growth.

Additionally, having a well-functioning clawfoot tub drain not only ensures convenience but also adds value to your home. If you ever decide to sell your house, potential buyers will appreciate a properly working vintage bathtub with efficient

My Buying Guide on ‘Clawfoot Tub Drain Plumbing’

Hello there! My name is [Your Name] and I recently went through the process of purchasing a clawfoot tub for my bathroom renovation project. One of the main components I had to consider was the drain plumbing for my clawfoot tub. After doing thorough research and consulting with professionals, I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing clawfoot tub drain plumbing.

Understanding Clawfoot Tub Drain Plumbing

The first step in buying clawfoot tub drain plumbing is to understand what it is and how it works. Unlike traditional bathtubs, clawfoot tubs are freestanding and require separate plumbing for draining the water. The drainage system consists of a drainpipe, overflow pipe, and P-trap. The drainpipe connects the tub to the sewer line, while the overflow pipe prevents the water from overflowing. The P-trap, also known as a U-shaped pipe, traps debris and prevents foul odors from entering your bathroom.

Types of Clawfoot Tub Drain Plumbing

There are two types of clawfoot tub drain plumbing: exposed and concealed. Exposed drains are visible and add a vintage charm to your bathroom. They consist of a decorative pipe that connects to the bathtub’s waste outlet and extends down to the floor. Concealed drains are not visible as they are hidden under your tub’s surface. They require access panels or removable flooring for maintenance.

Materials Used

The three main materials used for clawfoot tub drain plumbing are brass, chrome-plated brass, and PVC plastic. Brass is durable, corrosion-resistant, and has a classic look that complements most clawfoot tubs. Chrome-plated brass has all the qualities of regular brass but with added shine due to its chrome finish. PVC plastic is an affordable alternative but not as durable as brass.

Sizing

It is crucial to ensure that you choose the correct size for your clawfoot tub’s drain plumbing components. Measure your bathtub’s waste outlet diameter to determine which size you need for your drainpipe and overflow pipe. The standard size for a P-trap is 1 ½ inches in diameter.

Budget

The cost of clawfoot tub drain plumbing can range from $50-$200 depending on the material, type, and brand. Make sure to factor in this cost when budgeting for your bathroom renovation project.

Maintenance

Maintenance requirements vary depending on the material used for your clawfoot tub drain plumbing. Brass requires occasional polishing to maintain its shine while PVC plastic may need frequent replacements due to wear and tear.

Hiring a Professional vs DIY

If you have experience with plumbing installations or feel confident in your skills, installing clawfoot tub drain plumbing can be a DIY project for you. However, if you are unsure or do not have any prior experience with plumbing work, it is best to hire a professional plumber who specializes in installing clawfoot tubs.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing proper drainage system plays an essential role in ensuring that your new clawfoot bathtub functions efficiently without any issues. Consider all factors such as type, material, sizing, budget before making your final purchase decision. I hope this buying guide has helped you understand what you need to know about choosing suitable clawfoot tub drain plumbing for your bathroom renovation project!

Author Profile

Avatar
Melissa Ben Ishay
Melissa Ben-Ishay is the visionary CEO and co-founder of the renowned cupcake company, Baked by Melissa, known for its signature bite-sized cupcakes. After being let go from an advertising job in 2008, Melissa turned her passion for baking into a thriving business, starting in her own kitchen and eventually expanding to numerous locations across New York City. Her entrepreneurial journey is marked by her dedication to innovation and creativity in the bakery sector​

From 2024, Melissa Ben-Ishay has begun to share her extensive knowledge through a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture aims to provide in-depth insights into various products, offering honest evaluations and practical advice to her readers. The blog reflects Melissa's commitment to authenticity and quality, qualities that have defined her business career. Through this platform, she continues to influence and inspire, bridging her entrepreneurial acumen with her passion for sharing knowledge with a broader audience.