One of the simplest types is the standard plug and waste. This uses a separate plug, often rubber or metal, which is placed into the waste hole to hold water in the bath and removed to let it drain away. It is straightforward, reliable, and easy to replace.

Pop-up and click-clack wastes are modern alternatives. These have a built-in mechanism in the waste fitting itself. You press the top down to seal the bath and press again to release the water. They remove the need for a loose plug and chain and provide a neater, more contemporary appearance.

Lift-and-turn wastes operate by lifting and twisting the waste cap to open or close the drain. This type is simple to use and commonly found in many baths. Another, more traditional style is the trip lever waste, where a small lever located on the bath operates an internal mechanism that opens or closes the drain. This style is often used in older or heritage-style baths.

Bath wastes may be described as slotted or unslotted. A slotted waste has openings that allow water from the overflow to drain through the same fitting, making it suitable for baths with an overflow hole. An unslotted waste does not have these openings and is used where there is no overflow connection or where the overflow is managed separately.

Some baths use a combined waste and overflow assembly. In this system, the overflow opening near the top of the bath is connected by pipework to the main waste fitting, so water can drain away either through the plug hole or through the overflow channel if the water level gets too high.

When choosing a bath waste fitting, it is important to ensure compatibility with the bath’s design, especially regarding the overflow. Ease of use, style, and the finish of the visible waste cover are also considerations, as these can be matched to taps and other fittings. Regular cleaning and maintenance help prevent blockages and ensure the waste seals properly when the bath is filled.