How to Fix a Bathroom Faucet: 14 Steps

A dripping bathroom faucet is like a tiny, very annoying metronome that also
wastes water and money. The good news: most leaks come from a few small,
cheap parts and can be fixed in under an hour with basic tools. Major U.S.
home-improvement guides agree that worn washers, gaskets, O-rings, or a
tired cartridge are usually to blame, not some mysterious plumbing curse.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to fix a typical bathroom faucet in 14
clear steps. We’ll focus mainly on modern cartridge-style faucets (the most
common in bathrooms now), but we’ll also touch on other types and give you
realistic tips for when to DIY, when to replace the faucet, and when to call
in a pro.

Before You Grab a Wrench: Is This a DIY Job?

Most U.S. plumbing and home-repair pros say a simple dripping faucet is a
perfect starter project for a confident DIYer. If the faucet is otherwise in
good shape and the leak is coming from the spout or around the handle, a
repair kit and a free afternoon are usually enough.

However, if the faucet is very old, heavily corroded, leaking from multiple
places, or you see rusted, crumbling parts, many service companies suggest
that replacement might actually be cheaper and faster than fighting with
it.

As a rule of thumb:

• Repair if the faucet is relatively modern, in decent shape, and the leak seems localized.
• Replace if it’s decades old, looks rough, or you’ve “fixed” it several times already.
• Call a pro if you can’t shut off the water, the shutoff valves are frozen, or you’re dealing with complex or very old plumbing.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Here’s a typical tool list based on major DIY and plumbing repair guides:

• Adjustable wrench or small set of open-end wrenches
• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Allen (hex) wrench set (many faucet handles use these)
• Needle-nose pliers
• Utility knife
• Plumber’s grease (silicone-based)
• Replacement cartridge or stem (if needed)
• Replacement O-rings, washers, and seals (often part of a repair kit)
• Cleaning cloths and a non-scratch scrub pad
• Bucket or towel for any stray drips

Know Your Faucet Type

Knowing your faucet type helps you buy the right parts and follow the right
instructions. Most bathroom sink faucets fall into one of these categories:

• Compression faucet: Two handles (hot and cold) that twist multiple turns. They use rubber washers that press against a seat. Common in older homes.
• Cartridge faucet: One or two handles that move in a small arc. A replaceable cartridge controls the flow and temperature.
• Ball faucet: Single handle with a rounded ball mechanism under the cap. More common in kitchens, but sometimes in bathrooms.
• Ceramic disc faucet: Single handle and a wide cylindrical body. Uses durable ceramic discs; often lasts longer than compression styles.

You don’t have to become a faucet historian. Take a clear photo of the
faucet and, if in doubt, bring the old cartridge or stem to the store so
staff can match it with a reference guide.

How to Fix a Bathroom Faucet in 14 Steps

The steps below describe a typical repair for a bathroom sink faucet with a
cartridge or stem. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions too, but
this sequence matches what many U.S. guides recommend.

1. Step 1: Diagnose Where the Leak Is Coming From

   Watch the faucet closely. Is water dripping from the spout? Seeping
   around the base? Leaking under the sink? If it’s dripping from the
   spout when the faucet is off, the internal valve (washer, seal, or
   cartridge) is usually the culprit. If the leak is around the base of
   the faucet or handles, the O-rings or external seals might be worn.

2. Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

   Look under the sink for the shutoff valves. Turn both hot and cold
   valves clockwise until they stop. If they won’t budge or you can’t find
   them, you may need to shut off the main water supply for the house.
   After the water is off, open the faucet to relieve pressure and drain
   remaining water from the lines.

3. Step 3: Plug the Drain and Clear the Area

   Put a sink plug or a rolled-up cloth over the drain. This simple step
   keeps tiny screws and clips from vanishing into the plumbing abyss.
   Clear the countertop so you have room for parts, tools, and the “Wow, I
   actually did this” victory coffee later.

4. Step 4: Remove the Decorative Cap and Handle

   Many faucet handles have a small plastic or metal cap hiding a screw.
   Gently pry it off with a small flathead screwdriver. Use a screwdriver
   or Allen wrench to remove the handle screw, then lift the handle off.
   Some handles stick; rocking gently side to side (not forcing straight
   up) helps.

5. Step 5: Take Off the Retaining Nut or Clip

   Under the handle, you’ll usually see a retaining nut, bonnet, or a
   U-shaped clip holding the cartridge or stem in place. Use an adjustable
   wrench to loosen a nut, or pliers to gently pull out a clip. Set these
   pieces aside in a safe spotyou will need them later.

6. Step 6: Pull the Cartridge or Stem

   Grasp the top of the cartridge or stem with pliers and pull straight up.
   Avoid twisting hardsome cartridges must stay oriented a certain way to
   line up with internal channels. If it’s stubborn, a dedicated cartridge
   puller (sold at many hardware stores) can save the day.

7. Step 7: Inspect Washers, O-Rings, and the Cartridge

   Look for cracks, flattening, or mineral buildup on the cartridge,
   rubber washers, and O-rings. A warped washer or brittle O-ring is a
   classic source of leaks; a cracked cartridge body can also let water
   sneak through. Many U.S. plumbing guides point out that leaks are
   almost always traced to these small components, not the faucet body
   itself.

8. Step 8: Match and Buy Replacement Parts

   Take the old cartridge or stem, plus any damaged seals, to a hardware
   or home center. Match the brand and model if possible. If you’re not
   sure, store staff can often look it up using your parts or even a photo
   of the faucet. Buying an exact match saves a lot of frustration during
   reassembly.

9. Step 9: Clean the Valve Seat and Faucet Body

   While everything is apart, wipe down the inside of the faucet body and
   the valve seat area with a damp cloth. Use a non-scratch pad to remove
   mineral deposits. If the valve seat is visibly pitted or badly
   corroded, some guides recommend a seat wrench or, in extreme cases,
   replacing the faucet because rough surfaces can keep new washers from
   sealing well.

10. Step 10: Install the New Cartridge or Rebuild the Stem

    Lightly coat O-rings on the new cartridge or stem with plumber’s
    grease. Align any tabs or “ears” with notches in the faucet body, then
    press the cartridge straight down into place. For stem or compression
    faucets, install new washers and reassemble according to the kit’s
    instructions.

11. Step 11: Replace O-Rings and Reassemble the Spout (If Needed)

    If your faucet was leaking at the base, lift the spout (once allowed by
    your faucet design), remove the old O-rings with a utility knife, and
    replace them with new ones of the same size. Again, a thin coat of
    plumber’s grease helps them seat and seal properly. Slide the spout
    back on.

12. Step 12: Reinstall the Retaining Nut or Clip and Handle

    Reinstall the retaining nut or clip that holds the cartridge or stem in
    place. Tighten the nut snugly but avoid over-tightening, which can
    damage threads or crush internal parts. Then reinstall the handle and
    handle screw, and pop the decorative cap back on.

13. Step 13: Turn the Water Back On and Test

    Slowly open the shutoff valves under the sink. Turn the faucet on and
    off a few times, then check for leaks at the spout, around the handle,
    and under the sink. Some manufacturers recommend briefly removing the
    aerator so trapped debris can flush out before you test the final
    flow.

14. Step 14: Final Check and Preventive Maintenance

    After a few minutes, dry all visible areas and check again for new
    moisture. If everything is still dry after a short test period, your
    repair is likely a success. It’s also a good time to clean or replace
    the aerator, which can improve flow and prevent odd spray patterns. A
    quick once-over every few months (checking for loose handles or minor
    drips) can catch issues long before they become major leaks.

Troubleshooting Common Faucet Fix Problems

Still Dripping After the Repair

If your faucet still drips after replacing the cartridge or washers, double
check that:

• The cartridge is oriented correctly (tabs lined up with notches).
• The retaining nut is snug but not cross-threaded.
• You replaced all seals, not just the obviously damaged one.

Some plumbing guides note that persistent leaks may indicate damage to the
valve seat or faucet body, which can push you toward replacing the entire
faucet instead of chasing the leak forever.

Low Water Flow After Reassembly

If the flow is weak, unscrew the aerator at the tip of the spout. Minerals
or debris from the repair can clog its tiny screens. Clean or replace the
aerator and test again. Many big-box store guides include aerator cleaning
as a standard part of faucet repair.

The Handle or Nut Is Stuck

Stuck parts are common on older faucets. A little penetrating oil (applied
carefully and allowed to sit) can loosen screws or nuts. For truly
stubborn cartridges, a cartridge puller tool may be worth the small
investment and can prevent damage that might force a full replacement.

When to Stop and Call a Plumber

Plumbing companies consistently give similar advice: if you can’t shut off
the water, the shutoff valves or supply lines look corroded, or you see
signs of leaks inside walls or floors, it’s time for a professional.

It’s also smart to call in a pro if:

• The faucet is part of a complicated custom installation.
• You’ve tried a full repair kit but the leak keeps coming back.
• You’re uncomfortable working under the sink or dealing with older pipes.

The cost of a service call is still often lower than repairing water damage
from a hidden leak that went on too long.

Real-Life Faucet Fixing Experiences and Lessons Learned

If you talk to homeowners, you’ll find that fixing a bathroom faucet is
almost a rite of passageright up there with assembling flat-pack
furniture or installing your first smart thermostat. Many people start the
project nervous and end it feeling like they should be wearing a tiny
“Plumber in Training” badge.

One often-shared experience goes like this: the faucet drip has been going
on for months, maybe years. It’s the background soundtrack during late-night
scrolling. Finally, the water bill spikes or someone can’t take the “drip,
drip, drip” anymore. When the homeowner finally takes the faucet apart,
they discover a washer so worn it looks like a rubber pancake or a cracked
cartridge that practically falls apart in their hands. It’s a good reminder
that small leaks can waste gallons of water over time and that fixing them
isn’t just about comfortit’s about conservation, too.

Another common story involves family “training sessions.” A parent or
grandparent decides it’s time to pass down some basic DIY skills. They call
in a teen or young adult to “help” with the repair: handing over tools,
snapping photos of each step, and learning how the shutoff valves work.
Not only does the faucet get fixed, but the younger helper walks away with
a real understanding of how water gets to the sink and what to do if
something goes wrong. Those hands-on lessons tend to stick much better than
any manual.

Of course, not every story is smooth. In one widely shared “old house”
anecdote, a homeowner tracked a chronic bathroom mess back to a leaky
faucetand discovered that fixing it turned into a much larger family
project as they wrestled with stubborn old hardware and outdated parts. The
takeaway wasn’t “never try this at home,” but rather “go slowly, expect a
few surprises, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when things get weird.”

People who’ve repaired multiple faucets tend to repeat a few big lessons:

• Take photos at every stage. Your future self will thank you when you’re trying to remember how that clip or spring was oriented.
• Lay parts out in order. Lining up removed pieces in sequencehandle, screw, cap, cartridge, and so onturns reassembly into connect-the-dots.
• Use the right grease. A tiny bit of plumber’s grease on O-rings and moving parts helps them seal and move smoothly.
• Don’t overtighten. Overzealous wrenching can crack cartridges or deform seals, sending you back to square one.

Longtime DIYers also point out that the more you work on fixtures like
faucets, the more confident you become about your home’s plumbing in
general. That makes it easier to tackle other basic jobs, like replacing
a toilet flapper or installing a new showerhead. It also helps you describe
problems more clearly if you do need to call a plumber; you can explain
exactly what you tried, which parts you replaced, and where the leak seems
to originate.

Perhaps the biggest “experience” lesson is psychological: once you’ve fixed
one dripping faucet successfully, the sound of silenceno drip, no wasted
waterfeels incredibly satisfying. You realize that a job you’d been
avoiding for months was actually straightforward. That win often motivates
people to keep an eye on small issues and address them early instead of
waiting until they become expensive emergencies. In other words, a single
repaired faucet can quietly change the way you care for your entire home.

Conclusion

Fixing a bathroom faucet can look intimidating, but most leaks come down to
the same handful of parts: washers, O-rings, and cartridges. With basic
tools, a little patience, and the 14 steps outlined above, you can usually
stop that drip, protect your water bill, and gain a new level of DIY
confidence. When in doubt, take clear photos, keep your parts organized,
and don’t hesitate to call a professional if you run into corroded pipes or
won’t-budge valves.

The next time you hear that familiar drip in the middle of the night,
remember: you’re only a few steps away from fixing itand enjoying a much
quieter bathroom.