Why Is My Bathtub Faucet Dripping After I Turn It Off?

A dripping bathtub faucet usually means a worn-out washer or O-ring. Learn how to replace these parts and stop the drip.

Category:Plumbing

Difficulty:Easy

Time:30 min

Success:50%

Updated:Jun 18, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Why Is My Bathtub Faucet Dripping After I Turn It Off?, start with "Turn off water supply and remove handle": Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise. Remove the faucet handle by prying off the decorative cap and unscrewing the Phillips screw beneath it. Stop DIY if the faucet body is cracked or corroded. This is listed as a easy recovery and usually takes about 30 min.

verifiedGuide Snapshot

Repair areaPlumbing

Estimated time30 min

DifficultyEasy

Stop conditions3

Last updated Jun 18, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceBathtub

Current stateDripping Faucet

Specific stateWasher Wear

Failed stepWasher Wear

Likely failure typeWorn Part

DIY boundaryDIY recovery first

paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

A dripping bathtub faucet is almost always caused by a worn-out washer, O-ring, or cartridge. Over time, these rubber components degrade due to mineral deposits and constant use, breaking the seal that stops water flow. Fixing it yourself can save water and prevent costly damage to your tub finish.

build_circle2. Try This First

Best First Step

Turn off water supply and remove handle

Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise. Remove the faucet handle by prying off the decorative cap and unscrewing the Phillips screw beneath it.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

See what's happening and how to try the first recovery step.

Remove the packing nut and stemUse an adjustable wrench to unscrew the packing nut (the hex nut behind the handle). Pull the stem assembly straight out.

Replace the rubber washerRemove the small screw at the bottom of the stem to release the old washer. Install a new washer of the same size and type (flat or beveled).

Reassemble and testInsert the stem back into the faucet, tighten the packing nut, reattach the handle, and turn the water supply back on. Test the faucet for drips.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Replace the entire faucet cartridgeIf the washer doesn't stop the drip, the cartridge may be damaged. Replace it with an exact match for your faucet model.

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