How to Keep Water in a Bathtub When the Stopper Doesn't Work

Saturate five to six paper towels with water and wring out the excess. Bunch the towels into a plastic bag and seal it. Wedge the plastic bag into the bathtub drain.

Place a circular plastic lid, such as the kind found on a container of butter or a plastic kitchen container, over the drain. Pressure from the water will hold the lid in place. The lid should be large enough to cover the drain and several inches around it.

Cut a medium-sized rubber ball, or a tennis ball, in half using a utility knife. Place the ball into the drain, concave side facing upward, to form a tight seal. As with the plastic lid, the water pressure will lock the ball's beveled edge into the drain.

Drop a golf ball into the drain. Golf balls will fit most bathtub drains perfectly, providing a watertight seal without falling too far down the drain.