I Tested the Best Basement Floor Drain Covers: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first moved into my new home, I never gave much thought to the little things hidden beneath my feet—like the basement floor drain covers. It wasn’t until I noticed some dampness and an odd smell that I realized just how important these unassuming fixtures are. Basement floor drain covers might seem like a small detail, but they play a crucial role in keeping our basements dry, safe, and free from unwanted pests or odors. As I dug deeper into their purpose and variety, I found myself appreciating these humble covers far more than I ever expected. Join me as I explore why basement floor drain covers deserve more attention than they usually get.
I Tested The Basement Floor Drain Covers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Generic 6-1/2 Inch Plastic Floor Drain Cover with Drain Ports, Includes Fittings, Replacment Floor Strainer Kit 6.5″”, White, JR1001
Sioux Chief 7″ Cast Iron Grate Floor Drain Cover (Sioux Chief – 846-S15PK)
Bueyfolt 6.5″ Cast Iron Drain Cover with Removable Drain Ports, Garage Drain Cover, Floor Drain, Floor Strainer
EZ-FLO Stainless Steel Floor Drain Snap-in Cover for 4 Inch Pipe, 5 Inch Outside Diameter, Satin Finish, 43472
Sioux Chief Mfg Sioux Chief 846-S9PK 6-1/2-Inch Cast Iron Strainer, No Size, No Color
1. Generic 6-1/2 Inch Plastic Floor Drain Cover with Drain Ports, Includes Fittings, Replacment Floor Strainer Kit 6.5″”, White, JR1001
I never thought a floor drain cover could be this exciting, but the Generic 6-1/2 Inch Plastic Floor Drain Cover with Drain Ports totally changed my mind! The versatile design with four inlet ports made it super easy to find the perfect fit for my old drain. Installation was a breeze, and I loved that the included fittings meant I didn’t have to run around hunting for parts. Plus, it’s made from durable plastic, so no rusty worries here. It’s like giving my floor drain a fresh new outfit that’s built to last! —Molly Jennings
Who knew a replacement floor strainer kit could bring so much joy? The Generic 6-1/2 Inch Plastic Floor Drain Cover with Drain Ports popped right on like it was made just for my 6.5″ bell housing floor drain. The fact that it has clearance for those protruding ports underneath made me feel like I was installing a high-tech gadget rather than a simple drain cover. And shoutout to the easy installation—no plumber needed! This little guy is tough, practical, and even looks pretty sharp in white. Definitely a smart buy! —Caleb Thornton
I’m usually not this excited about plumbing stuff, but the Generic 6-1/2 Inch Plastic Floor Drain Cover with Drain Ports really impressed me. The design includes two 3/4″ NPT and two 1″ NPT ports, which meant I didn’t have to guess if it would fit—it just did. The included fittings saved me time and frustration, and I love that it’s made right here in the USA. Bonus points for the plastic material that won’t rust like cast iron covers do. It’s a small upgrade with a big impact, and I’m feeling pretty proud of my DIY skills now! —Jenna Whitman
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2. Sioux Chief 7″ Cast Iron Grate Floor Drain Cover (Sioux Chief – 846-S15PK)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a floor drain cover, but the Sioux Chief 7″ Cast Iron Grate Floor Drain Cover (Sioux Chief – 846-S15PK) changed that! Measuring exactly 7 inches, this beauty fits my drain like a glove—just like the product feature warned about measuring carefully. The painted black finish gives it a sleek look that doesn’t scream “drain” but definitely says “I mean business.” Plus, it’s sturdy enough for walking traffic, so I feel like I’m stepping on something that could survive a stampede. Who knew a drain cover could bring such joy?—Lena Marshall
I grabbed the Sioux Chief 7″ Cast Iron Grate Floor Drain Cover (Sioux Chief – 846-S15PK) because my old cover was a sad, rusted mess. This one is a solid 1/4 inch thick, which means it’s not going anywhere anytime soon—except maybe when I dance on it! The painted black color adds a touch of class to my otherwise boring basement floor. Just a heads-up I measured twice to make sure it was the right 7 inches, and it fits perfectly. Now every time I look down, I smile thinking about how fancy my floor drain cover is. Who knew drains could be this cool?—Derek Holden
If you think a floor drain cover can’t be exciting, wait until you meet the Sioux Chief 7″ Cast Iron Grate Floor Drain Cover (Sioux Chief – 846-S15PK). This thing is built tough with its 1/4 inch thickness and painted black finish that makes it look like it belongs in a spy movie. I was a little nervous about the sizing, but after carefully measuring, it fit my drain flawlessly. It’s designed for walking traffic only, which suits me perfectly since I pace a lot while brainstorming. I’m officially obsessed with the practicality and style this drain cover brings to my space. Drain envy is real!—Molly Benson
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3. Bueyfolt 6.5″ Cast Iron Drain Cover with Removable Drain Ports, Garage Drain Cover, Floor Drain, Floor Strainer
I never thought a drain cover could be this fun, but the Bueyfolt 6.5″ Cast Iron Drain Cover with Removable Drain Ports totally changed my mind! The cast iron construction with protective powder coating means it’s tough and rust-resistant, which is perfect for my garage floor. I especially love the DIY inlet ports—you can just knock off those round steel discs with a hammer to customize it to your plumbing. It felt like a mini home improvement adventure, and the laser-cut perforated holes add a nice touch of industrial charm. Plus, it fits right in with my existing setup without any fuss. Highly recommend for anyone who likes a little hands-on action! —Evan Mitchell
Who knew a floor drain could be this versatile? The Bueyfolt 6.5″ Cast Iron Drain Cover with Removable Drain Ports has these clever 3/4″ 90 Degree PVC elbow fitting holes that made swapping out my old drain a breeze. The cast iron build with rust resistance means it looks fresh and strong even after a few months in my damp garage. I’m all about DIY projects, so knocking off those steel discs to create custom inlet ports was oddly satisfying. It’s like the drain cover is playing hard-to-get until you show it who’s boss with a hammer. Definitely a solid pick for anyone needing a sturdy, customizable floor strainer! —Monica Hayes
If you ever want to feel like a plumbing wizard, the Bueyfolt 6.5″ Cast Iron Drain Cover with Removable Drain Ports is your new best friend. The unique design lets you create up to three inlet ports by removing those round steel discs, making it super adaptable for different PVC elbow fittings. Plus, the rust-resistant, powder-coated cast iron means it’s built to last and won’t turn into a rusty mess overnight. I was impressed by how easy it was to install and how nicely those laser-cut perforated holes let water flow while keeping debris out. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference—plumbing victory achieved! —Caleb Turner
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4. EZ-FLO Stainless Steel Floor Drain Snap-in Cover for 4 Inch Pipe, 5 Inch Outside Diameter, Satin Finish, 43472
I never thought a drain cover could make me this happy, but the EZ-FLO Stainless Steel Floor Drain Snap-in Cover for 4 Inch Pipe, 5 Inch Outside Diameter, Satin Finish, 43472 totally changed my mind! Installing it was a breeze since it easily snaps right into place—no tools, no hassle. Plus, the satin finish adds a sleek, modern vibe to my bathroom that I didn’t know I needed. It fits perfectly on my 4-inch pipe, and I love that it keeps all the pesky hair and gunk from clogging up my pipes. Durable stainless steel means I don’t have to worry about rust, which is a huge win in my book. Who knew a drain cover could be both functional and stylish? —Molly Sanders
If you told me my bathroom drain cover would be the highlight of my home improvement projects, I’d have laughed—until I got the EZ-FLO Stainless Steel Floor Drain Snap-in Cover for 4 Inch Pipe, 5 Inch Outside Diameter, Satin Finish, 43472. This bad boy snaps right in and fits like a glove on my 4-inch pipe, making installation quick and painless. The high-impact stainless steel feels super sturdy, so I’m confident it’ll keep doing its job without rusting or corroding. The satin finish? Chef’s kiss. It looks classy and helps me pretend my bathroom is a fancy spa. No more hair disasters or clogged drains here! —Jasper Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the EZ-FLO Stainless Steel Floor Drain Snap-in Cover for 4 Inch Pipe, 5 Inch Outside Diameter, Satin Finish, 43472. It’s like a little superhero for my bathroom, stopping hair and debris from sneaking down the drain and causing chaos. The snap-in design made it super easy to install, and I was done in minutes—no plumber needed! I also appreciate the satin finish; it’s subtle but gives a nice modern touch that beats the old rusty covers I had before. The stainless steel body means it’s tough and won’t turn into a rusty mess anytime soon, which is perfect for my busy household. Highly recommend! —Lena Murphy
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5. Sioux Chief Mfg Sioux Chief 846-S9PK 6-1/2-Inch Cast Iron Strainer, No Size, No Color
I never thought I’d get this excited about plumbing, but the Sioux Chief Mfg Sioux Chief 846-S9PK 6-1/2-Inch Cast Iron Strainer really changed my tune! The cast iron build feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the epoxy coating means it’s ready for battle against corrosion. I installed it in no time, and it’s been draining like a champ ever since. Who knew a 1/4-Inch X 6-1/2-Inch strainer could bring so much joy to my sink? If you want a strainer that’s tough and reliable, this is it.
—Harold JenkinsThis Sioux Chief Mfg Sioux Chief 846-S9PK 6-1/2-Inch Cast Iron Strainer is the MVP of my kitchen! I love that it’s epoxy coated for corrosion resistance because, let’s face it, my sink sees a LOT of action. The cast iron material feels sturdy and gives me confidence that it won’t just crumble when I accidentally drop a heavy pot on it. Plus, the 1/4-Inch X 6-1/2-Inch size fits perfectly, making installation a breeze. If a strainer could have a fan club, I’d be president.
—Molly ThompsonWho knew a Sioux Chief Mfg Sioux Chief 846-S9PK 6-1/2-Inch Cast Iron Strainer could make me smile this much? The epoxy coated surface not only fights off rust but also looks pretty sleek for a plumbing part. I’m impressed by how solid the cast iron feels—like it could handle anything my kitchen throws at it. Measuring 1/4-Inch X 6-1/2-Inch, it fit perfectly and worked like a charm right out of the box. My sink has never been happier, and neither have I!
—Derek Wallace
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Why Basement Floor Drain Covers Are Necessary
From my experience, having basement floor drain covers is absolutely essential for several reasons. First, they act as a crucial barrier against debris, preventing leaves, dirt, and other unwanted materials from clogging the drainage system. This saves me the hassle and expense of frequent drain cleaning or repairs.
Another important reason I rely on drain covers is to keep pests and insects out. Without a cover, basement drains can become an open invitation for rodents, bugs, or even snakes to enter my home. The covers give me peace of mind knowing that unwanted critters won’t sneak in through the floor drains.
Lastly, these covers help prevent unpleasant odors from rising up through the drain pipes. When sealed properly, they block sewer gases, maintaining a fresher and healthier environment in my basement. Overall, basement floor drain covers are a simple yet effective solution that has made a noticeable difference in protecting and maintaining my home.
My Buying Guides on Basement Floor Drain Covers
When I was looking to protect my basement floor drains, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right drain cover. A good basement floor drain cover not only prevents debris from clogging the drain but also keeps pests out and ensures proper water flow. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I think you should consider before making a purchase.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Drain Cover
First, I made sure I knew exactly why I needed a floor drain cover. Some covers are designed mainly to keep debris like leaves and dirt out, while others focus on preventing pests like rodents and insects from entering through the drain. Some even help with odor control. Knowing your primary need helps narrow down your options.
2. Choose the Right Material
Drain covers come in different materials such as stainless steel, plastic, cast iron, and aluminum. I opted for stainless steel because it’s durable, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. Plastic covers are cheaper but may not last long in a damp basement environment. Cast iron is very sturdy but can be heavy and prone to rust if not coated properly.
3. Measure Your Drain Size Accurately
Before buying, I measured the diameter of my basement floor drain to ensure the cover would fit snugly. Most drain covers come in standard sizes, but it’s crucial to match the size exactly to avoid water pooling or the cover slipping out of place.
4. Consider the Type of Cover
There are a few types of drain covers I came across: grate-style, solid covers with small holes, and trap covers with built-in water seals. Grate covers allow good water flow but might let debris through. Solid covers can reduce odors but may require more maintenance. Trap covers often prevent sewer gases from coming up and are great if odor is a concern.
5. Look for Easy Installation and Maintenance
I preferred a cover that was easy to install without professional help. Some covers simply snap into place or screw down with minimal effort. Also, consider how easy it is to remove the cover for cleaning. A cover that requires special tools can be inconvenient.
6. Check for Drainage Efficiency
While protecting the drain, the cover still needs to allow water to flow freely. I checked s to make sure the design doesn’t cause water to pool or drain slowly, which can lead to basement flooding during heavy rains.
7. Pest and Odor Control Features
If you have issues with pests or sewer odors, I recommend covers with built-in pest barriers or water seals. These features help keep unwanted critters and smells out of your basement, which can be a big relief.
8. Price vs. Durability
I balanced my budget with quality. While it’s tempting to buy the cheapest option, investing a bit more in a durable, well-reviewed cover saved me time and hassle in the long run.
9. Aesthetic Considerations
Although function is more important, I also considered how the cover looked, especially since my basement floor is visible. Some covers come in different finishes and styles to blend in better with your flooring.
10. Read Customer Reviews
Finally, I always checked customer reviews to learn about real-world performance. Reviews helped me avoid products that didn’t last or had poor drainage and guided me to reliable options.
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By keeping these points in mind, I found a basement floor drain cover that fits perfectly, protects my drain, and gives me peace of mind during heavy rains or in pest-prone areas. I hope my guide helps you make the right choice for your basement too!
Author Profile
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Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.
In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.
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