Caleb MorganBy Caleb Morgan

Updated November 2026

To repair a dripping faucet in bathroom, you shut off the water, take the handle apart, and replace the worn part causing the leak, usually a cartridge, washer, or O-ring. Most bathroom drips come from a small rubber or plastic component that has worn down, and the fix takes under an hour with basic hand tools. This guide walks through identifying your faucet type, making the repair, and testing the result.

Identify Your Faucet Type Before You Start

Bathroom faucets come in four common designs, and the repair depends on which one you have. A compression faucet has separate hot and cold handles that you turn several times to open. A cartridge faucet uses a single cylinder inside the body, either one-handle or two-handle. A ball faucet has a dome-shaped cap on top and a slotted ball inside. A ceramic disc faucet has a lever that slides and rotates, with two ceramic discs inside.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Bathroom Moen Faucet Repair: Lever Handle Kit Review (2026).

Look at how the handle moves. If it turns several times, you likely have a compression valve. If it moves in a smooth single motion, check for a cartridge or disc design. Knowing this tells you which parts to buy, so take a quick look before ordering anything.

Shut Off the Water and Remove the Handle

Close the supply valves under the sink, then open the faucet to drain remaining water. Plug the drain with a rag so small screws do not disappear down it.

  1. Pry off the decorative index cap on each handle with a flathead screwdriver or utility knife.
  2. Remove the handle screw, usually a Phillips or Allen head.
  3. Lift off the handle. If it is stuck, wiggle it gently rather than forcing it.
  4. Unscrew the packing nut or retaining nut with an adjustable wrench, wrapping the jaws in tape to protect the finish.

Replace the Worn Cartridge, Washer or O-Ring

Pull out the stem, cartridge, or valve assembly. Compare it to the replacement part side by side, and match the brand, model, and number of handles. Most bathroom faucets from major manufacturers use proprietary cartridges, so the old part is the best reference.

Check the seats inside the faucet body for mineral buildup or grit. Wipe them clean with a cloth or a soft brush. Replace the O-rings and rubber washers with the included kit parts, applying a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the O-rings. Manufacturers generally specify silicone-based lubricant for faucet seals, so avoid petroleum products that can swell rubber.

Reassemble and Test for Leaks

Reverse the disassembly order. Snug the retaining nut firmly but do not overtighten, since this can crack the cartridge housing. Reattach the handle, the screw, and the index cap.

  1. Open the supply valves slowly.
  2. Run the faucet on hot and cold for 30 seconds each.
  3. Turn the handle fully off and watch the spout for 5 minutes.
  4. If a drip continues, the seat may be scored and need replacing, or the cartridge may not be seated correctly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to shut off the supply valves, which leads to a soaked vanity.
  • Buying a generic cartridge that does not match the faucet brand and model.
  • Overtightening the retaining nut, which can crack plastic parts.
  • Skipping the seat cleaning, so the new part leaks almost immediately.
  • Using petroleum-based grease on rubber seals.
  • Adjustable wrench with padded or rubber-lined jaws, which helps protect chrome and brass finishes while loosening retaining nuts. View on Amazon
  • Silicone plumber’s grease, which is safe for faucet O-rings and rubber washers. View on Amazon
  • Faucet cartridge puller, which removes a stuck cartridge without damaging the valve body. View on Amazon

FAQ

Do I need to replace the whole faucet to stop a drip?

Usually not. Most drips are caused by a worn cartridge, washer, or O-ring, and replacing that part costs far less than a new faucet. A new faucet makes sense only if the body is corroded or the design is outdated.

Why does my faucet still drip after replacing the cartridge?

The valve seat may be scratched or clogged with mineral deposits, so the new cartridge cannot seal properly. Clean the seat carefully, and replace it if it is pitted.

How long should a bathroom faucet repair take?

For a single handle with a standard cartridge, most people finish within 30 to 60 minutes. Stuck parts or corroded fittings can add time. If you are unsure about the water supply or plumbing connections, consult a licensed plumber.

Conclusion

Fixing a dripping bathroom faucet comes down to identifying the faucet type, replacing the worn part, and reassembling carefully. With the water off and the right replacement cartridge or washer in hand, most drips stop in a single session. Keep the original part as a reference, and you will be ready for the next repair.

Ready to choose one?

Caleb Morgan

About Caleb Morgan

Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our kitchen faucets & sinks guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.