Caleb MorganBy Caleb Morgan

Updated November 2026

To repair a dripping bathtub faucet, you shut off the water, remove the handle and trim, and replace the worn part causing the leak, which is usually a cartridge, washer or valve seat. Most drips come from one inexpensive component wearing out, so the job is often under an hour once the parts are exposed. This guide walks through the process for common single-handle and two-handle tub faucets.

Identify the Source of the Drip

Before you take anything apart, figure out where the water is coming from. A drip from the spout when the faucet is off usually points to a worn cartridge or washer. A drip that runs only when the tub is set to shower often means the diverter is failing. Leaks around the handle base suggest a loose packing nut or an O-ring that has dried out.

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Check whether the drip is hot, cold or both. A single-handle faucet with a drip usually has a cartridge problem, while two-handle faucets often need a washer or valve seat replaced on the leaking side.

Shut Off the Water and Remove the Handle

Close the tub’s supply valves, which are usually behind an access panel or in the wall near the faucet. If you cannot find them or they do not fully close, shut off the main water supply to the house. Open the tub faucet to drain any remaining water and release pressure.

  1. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle with a flat-blade screwdriver.
  2. Remove the handle screw and lift the handle off the stem.
  3. Unscrew the trim plate or escutcheon, then remove the stop or bonnet nut with an adjustable wrench or a deep socket.
  4. Pull out the cartridge or stem. Note its orientation before you remove it, since a misaligned reinstall causes new leaks.

Replace the Worn Cartridge, Washer or Seat

Inspect the removed part. Cartridges with mineral crust, scoring or a torn rubber seal need replacing. On compression-style faucets, a worn rubber washer and brass seat are the usual culprits. Take the part to a hardware store or match it using the faucet brand and model number, since tub valves are not interchangeable.

Clean the valve body with a soft brush and white vinegar to remove scale. Coat new O-rings with silicone plumber’s grease, and avoid petroleum-based lubricants, which can degrade rubber. Reinstall the new part in the same orientation, then reassemble in reverse order.

Test the Repair and Reassemble

Turn the water supply back on slowly. Open the faucet to flush any debris, then close it and watch the spout for at least a minute. If the drip persists, the new part may be seated incorrectly or the valve seat may be damaged, which usually requires a seat-wrench tool or professional help.

Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting to shut off the water fully, which leads to a flood once the cartridge comes out.
  • Installing a cartridge backward or rotated a notch, which keeps the leak going.
  • Overtightening the bonnet or packing nut, which can crack the body or make the handle hard to turn.
  • Using the wrong replacement part because the faucet brand was not identified first.
  • Skipping the diverter check when the drip only happens in shower mode.
  • Silicone plumber’s grease keeps new O-rings sealed and moving smoothly. View on Amazon
  • Adjustable wrench lets you grip the bonnet nut without marring the finish. View on Amazon
  • Faucet cartridge puller helps remove a stuck cartridge without damaging the valve body. View on Amazon

FAQ

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

No. In most cases, replacing the cartridge, washer or valve seat is enough. A full replacement is only needed if the body is cracked or the faucet is no longer available in parts.

How do I know which cartridge my tub faucet uses?

Remove the cartridge and note the brand stamped on it, or check the faucet’s model number on the packaging or under the trim. Matching by brand and model is more reliable than measuring by eye.

Can a dripping tub faucet waste much water?

Yes. A steady drip can add up to a significant amount of water over a month, and it can also stain the tub and raise your water bill. Fixing it early limits both problems.

Conclusion

A dripping bathtub faucet is usually caused by one worn part, and the repair is a manageable weekend task with basic tools. Shut off the water, identify the leaking component, and replace it in the correct orientation. If the drip continues or the valve body is damaged, consult a licensed plumber.

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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.