How To Remove Shower Drain Cover [6 Easy Steps]

If you’re looking at this, you’re probably tired of standing in a slippery, conditioner-filled puddle. When your drain isn’t clearing quickly, the first step is to remove it and inspect for clogs, blockages, or any visible problems. You could also try a drain snake or specialised clearing crystals, but if these methods fail, you might have run out of options.

Best Approach

Tools Required:

For tougher grime, it might be helpful to have some extra paper towels or rags on hand, as well as an old toothbrush that you’re willing to discard after use.

Step 1. Identify your drain

Give your glasses a good wipe before putting them on, because you’ll need a clear view. Is it a flat cover, a snap-in, or a screw-in design? Can you spot any visible screws? Figuring out the exact type of shower drain cover is the first essential step to removing it properly.

Step 2. Is it a flat cover? How to remove flat shower drain cover

If your shower drain is completely level with the floor, you can probably remove the cover using just a flathead screwdriver. Simply slide the screwdriver’s tip beneath the edge and apply gentle upward pressure. Did it pop off easily?

Step 3. Does the cover snap in? 

If you don’t see any screws and the drain cover is round, it’s probably a snap-in style. To remove it, use needle-nose pliers to grip a noticeable part of the cover and pull it straight up. After all, what snaps in can just as easily snap out!

Step 4. Is it a screw-in-cover?

If you can see screws, it’s pretty clear what comes next: find the right screwdriver. Carefully remove each one without letting it fall into the drain, since you most likely won’t be getting it back. After that, the cover should lift right off.

See more details here

Step 5. Do you see a set screw?

It’s also possible there’s a set screw hidden beneath the cover, which you can usually loosen with an Allen wrench. Loosen it substantially, but DO NOT remove it entirely. Once it’s loose, the drain should lift right off.

See more details here

Step 6. You may need a special tool

How’s it going with removing your shower drain grate? Still no luck? It might be that your specific drain cover needs a specialised tool or a unique method. In that case, it’s time to call your plumber.

How to remove shower drain cover without screws

If your shower drain cover in Australia isn’t secured by screws, it’s probably held in place through pressure, gravity, or a built-in locking mechanism

Snap-in type

If the cover is round and you don’t see any screws, it could be a snap-in type. To remove it, use needle-nose pliers to grasp a section of the cover and pull straight upward.

Pull-out point drain cover

These covers don’t have screws and come off by pulling and wiggling. If they feel stuck, try using pliers or applying a bit of lubricant.

Pop-up

Once the top is lifted, unscrew the main component by turning it counterclockwise or pull it straight up. If it doesn’t come off easily, consult a plumber to prevent any damage to your drain.

How to remove square shower drain cover

To remove a square shower drain cover, first check for screws securing it in place. If screws are present, use the appropriate screwdriver to remove them, and store them safely. If there are no screws, the cover is likely press-fit or twist-lock. For press-fit covers, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry it up from one side, being careful not to scratch the surrounding area. For twist-lock covers, firmly twist counterclockwise to release them.

If the cover is stuck due to debris or buildup, you can use pliers (wrapped in tape to prevent damage) for better grip. In cases where the caulk is sealing the cover, carefully cut the caulk with a utility knife before removal. Clean the drain edges afterward to prevent future sticking. Avoid using excessive force to minimise the risk of damage.

How to remove shower drain cover that is grouted in

To remove a shower drain cover that is grouted in, use a utility knife or grout removal tool to carefully scrape away the grout around the edges of the cover. Work slowly to avoid damaging the surrounding tiles or the drain cover itself. Once the grout is sufficiently cleared, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry up the cover, or twist it if it has a twist-lock mechanism

If the cover remains stuck, apply gentle force with pliers or a flathead screwdriver wrapped in tape for extra grip. For stubborn cases, apply a lubricant like WD-40 around the edges and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again. After removal, clean the area and reapply grout if needed when reinstalling the cover or replacing it.

How to remove plastic shower drain cover

The same principles above apply to all plastic shower drain covers, be more delicate with it as it can break easier than metal or ceramic drain cover.

How to remove metal shower drain cover

The same principles above apply to all metal shower drain covers, beware that metal shower drains can bend.

Still having issues removing your shower drain cover?

If you live in the Ipswich region and have followed these steps but the issue isn’t resolving, AssureFix Plumbing is here to help with your drainage plumbing. Get in contact with us and get back to showering in comfort!