🕷️ Crawler Inspector

Skip to main content [Save big with deals before Black Friday. Shop Early Black Friday Now \>](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Start-saving/1665133836?int_cmp=Home%A1:NoDivision%25Other:FW39_25_EARLY_BLACK_FRIDAY_GLOBAL) [Lowe's Credit Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/Credit)[Order Status](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/orders)[Weekly Ad](https://www.lowes.com/weekly-ad)[Lowe's PRO](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/pro-benefits) ###### DIY & Ideas Menu [Link to Lowe's Home Improvement Home Page](https://www.lowes.com/ "Link to Lowe's Home Improvement Home Page") MyLowesSign In ##### Sign in or [create an account]() Get \$5 off\* when you join Earn points on eligible purchases FREE shipping with Silver Key status\* Sign In [Cart with 0 itemsCart]("Cart Count") [Shop All]() [MylowNew](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/repair-a-leaky-bathtub-faucet) [Holiday Decorations]() [Appliances]() [Bathroom]() [Building Supplies]() [Flooring]() [Lawn & Garden]() [Lighting]() [Outdoor]() [Tools]() [Plumbing]() [Gift Zone](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/gift-ideas) [Find a Store Near Me](https://www.lowes.com/store/) ## Deals by Department [Shop All](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings) - [Appliances](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294937007) - [Bathroom](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294737305) - [Building Supplies](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294934297) - [Flooring](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294934373) - [Home Décor](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294935484) - [Lawn & Garden](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=1011552124422) - [Lighting & Ceiling Fans](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294935637) - [Outdoors](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294612886) - [Paint](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294729418) - [Tools](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294936478) ## Don't Miss These Deals  [Shop All](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Start-saving/1665133836)  [Shop Now](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/daily-deals) ## More Ways to Save [Member Deals](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/profile/wallet/promotions) [Clearance](https://www.lowes.com/pl/The-back-aisle/2021454685607?refinement=2) [Weekly Ad](https://www.lowes.com/weekly-ad) Design Get Inspired [Shop by Room](https://www.lowes.com/shopbyroom/bestseller) Visualize [Flooring Visualizer](https://www.lowes.com/room-visualizer)[Kitchen Visualizer](https://kitchendesign2.lowes.com/?deviceid=25a68afc-4f9f-44ff-a523-31ac4391bf72)[Paint Visualizer](https://www.lowes.com/home-visualizers/paint) Plan [Projects](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/projects) DIY & Ideas [View All DIY Projects & Ideas](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas) - [Buying Guides](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/buying-guide) - [Calculators](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/calculators) - [Events & Inspiration](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/lowes-events-inspiration) - [Gift Ideas](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/gift-ideas) - [How-Tos](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/how-to) - [Project Center](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/ideas-inspiration) - [Project Videos](https://www.lowes.com/nl/videos) [](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas) Ideas [Appliances](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/appliances)[Bathroom](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/bathroom%09)[Flooring](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/flooring)[Kitchen](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/kitchen%09)[Lawn & Garden](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/lawn-garden%09)[Outdoor Living](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/outdoor-living%09)[Paint](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/paint) Shop Installation & Services Deals DIY & Ideas [Shop By Room](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/shop-by-room) [Order Status](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/orders) [Weekly Ad](https://www.lowes.com/weekly-ad) [Find a Store](https://www.lowes.com/store/) [Gift Cards](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/gift-cards) [Lowe’s Credit Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/Credit) [MyLowe’s Pro Rewards](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/pro-benefits) Make Project Planning Easier. Download our mobile app. [](https://lowes.app.link/lmh25 "Download from AppStore")[](https://lowes.app.link/lmh25 "Download from PlayStore") Prices, Promotions, styles, and availability may vary. Our local stores do not honor online pricing. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Lowe's reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted. 1. [Home](https://www.lowes.com/) 2. [DIY Projects & Ideas](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas) 3. [How-Tos](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/how-to) 4. [Bathroom](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/how-to/bathroom) # How to Fix a Leaking Bathtub Faucet  By Caylin Harris Updated June 3, 2025 Hearing a steady dripping sound from your bathtub faucet is annoying, but it also wastes hundreds of gallons of water per year. There’s no need to live with a leaky bathtub faucet or call a pro just yet. DIY it yourself with these instructions on how to fix a leaky bathtub faucet quickly and easily. Skill Beginner Time Few Hours  ### Table of Contents - [Tools and Materials](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/repair-a-leaky-bathtub-faucet#tools-and-materials) - [What Causes a Bathtub Faucet to Leak?](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/repair-a-leaky-bathtub-faucet#WhatCausesaBathtubFaucettoLeak?) - [Before You Start Your Bathtub Faucet Repair](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/repair-a-leaky-bathtub-faucet#BeforeYouStartYourBathtubFaucetRepair) - [Fixing Your Leaking Bathtub Faucet: A Great DIY](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/repair-a-leaky-bathtub-faucet#FixingYourLeakingBathtubFaucet:AGreatDIY) ### Recommended For Your Project [56DeltaWindemere Oil Rubbed Bronze 2-handle Deck-mount Roman High-arc Bathtub Faucet](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Delta-Windemere-Oil-Rubbed-Bronze-2-Handle-Residential-Deck-Mount-Roman-Bathtub-Faucet/3353610) [2051Oatey0.5-in x 520.0-in Plumber's Tape](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Oatey-0-6-in-x-43-ft-Plumber-s-Tape/4751313) [1546CRAFTSMAN12-in Adjustable Wrench](https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-12-in-Steel-Adjustable-Wrench-Individual/1000596495) [264Kobalt18 -Piece 8-in Magnetic Screwdriver Set](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-18-Piece-Plastic-Handle-Magnetic-Assorted-Screwdriver-Set/5013732097) [427Kobalt10-in Cast iron Pipe Wrench](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-10-in-Cast-Iron-Pipe-Wrench/50069717) [206Kobalt1/2-in x 50-ft High carbon wire Hand auger for Drain](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-Kobalt-1-2-In-X-50-FT-Drain-Auger/5013102021) [3650GESilicone 1 All Purpose, Windows, Doors, Exteriors 10.1-oz Window and Door Clear Silicone Caulk](https://www.lowes.com/pd/GE-Silicone-1-All-Purpose-Windows-Doors-Exteriors-10-1-oz-Clear-Silicone-Caulk/5013443639) [38KobaltLarge Synthetic leather Safety Gloves 1 -Pairs](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-Mens-Synthetic-Leather-Utility-Gloves-Large-1-Pair/5013192299) [841Lowe's5-gallon BPA-Free Plastic General bucket](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Encore-Plastics-5-Gallon-General-Bucket/3083565) [588SELLARSToolBox Professional White Rags 200 -Pack Paper Shop towel](https://www.lowes.com/pd/SELLARS-200-Pack-Paper-Towels/999982036) [92KobaltSwivel Head 500-Lumen 4 -Adjustable Mode LED Flashlight](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-Kobalt-Swivel-Head-Flashlight-500/5002008801) [1049Oatey14-oz Off-white Plumbers Putty](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Oatey-Off-white-Plumbers-Putty/4754110) [24KobaltT-Handle Seat Wrench](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-Wrench/1002599748) [80Superior ToolFaucet handle puller](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Superior-Tool-Faucet-Handle-Puller/5013483601) [141Danco200 -Pack 1/2-in x Assorted Rubber Faucet O-Ring](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Danco-200-Pack-Assorted-in-x-Assorted-in-Rubber-Faucet-O-Ring/1000107709) ## Tools and Materials #### Tools - [Flathead screwdriver](https://www.lowes.com/pl/hand-tools/screwdrivers/flathead/4294857613-821568801606) - [Allen wrench set](https://www.lowes.com/pl/hand-tools/nut-drivers-keys/hex-keys-torx-keys/4294707925) - [Phillips head screwdriver](https://www.lowes.com/pl/hand-tools/screwdrivers/phillips/4294857613-4294837013) - [Channel lock pliers](https://www.lowes.com/pl/hand-tools/pliers-plier-sets/pliers/channellock/4294425053-4294862784) - [Needle nose pliers](https://www.lowes.com/pl/hand-tools/pliers-plier-sets/pliers/needle-nose-pliers/4294425053-1111172458810) #### Materials - [A new bathroom faucet cartridge](https://www.lowes.com/pl/plumbing-parts-repair/faucet-parts-repair/cartridge/4294639577-4294822206) ## What Causes a Bathtub Faucet to Leak? ![A white tub with a black tile backsplash.]() The most common causes of a leaking [bathtub faucet](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Bathtub-faucets-Bathroom-faucets-shower-heads-Bathroom/4294737291 "/pl/Bathtub-faucets-Bathroom-faucets-shower-heads-Bathroom/4294737291") are a corroded washer or a failing cartridge. In some cases, it could be old bathtub faucet handles that have worn over time, that’s usually easier to identify since you will notice rust or cracking. If the source of the bathtub faucet leak is the pipe leading to the faucet, it may be a trickier repair that could require a plumber to help fix. ## Before You Start Your Bathtub Faucet Repair ![A water shut off valve.]() Locate your home’s water shut-off valve, they’re typically in the basement, and turn off the water supply. Once your valve is closed, turn your bathtub faucet on to drain any remaining water in the pipe. ### Step 1: Remove the Bathtub Faucet Handle Every bathtub faucet cover might be slightly different. Start by assessing what [screwdriver](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/%20/pl/hand-tools/screwdrivers/flathead/4294857613-821568801606 " /pl/hand-tools/screwdrivers/flathead/4294857613-821568801606") or [Allen wrench](https://www.lowes.com/pl/hand-tools/nut-drivers-keys/hex-keys-torx-keys/4294707925 "/pl/hand-tools/nut-drivers-keys/hex-keys-torx-keys/4294707925") you need to remove the cover from your single-handle bathtub faucet. Gently remove the handle and set aside on a towel with its corresponding screws. ### Step 2: Remove the Trim Sleeve or Trim Plate Unscrew the screws using whatever corresponding screwdriver or Allen wrench best suits your bathtub faucet. ### Step 3: Remove the Bonnet or Retainer Clip ![]() Depending on how your bathtub faucet is constructed, you’re either going to use channel lock pliers to remove the bonnet/ retainer nut or use your pliers to grab the top of the retainer clip and pull up to remove the retainer clip. Place these pieces on the towel as well. ### Step 4: Remove the Bathtub Faucet Cartridge ![]() Use your hand or a pair of pliers to remove the cartridge from the faucet pulling it straight out of the faucet handle. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a little bit of strength to remove this piece. Once it’s out, compare your old cartridge to the new one to ensure that you’ve purchased the right one. Check the interior opening to make sure the metal doesn’t look corroded or damaged. ### Step 5: Install the New Bathtub Faucet Cartridge Push the [new cartridge](https://www.lowes.com/pl/plumbing-parts-repair/faucet-parts-repair/cartridge/4294639577-4294822206 "/pl/plumbing-parts-repair/faucet-parts-repair/cartridge/4294639577-4294822206") into the bathtub faucet opening, making sure to line up the corresponding grooves so it clicks into place. Replace the bonnet nut or retainer clip. ### Step 6: Check Your Work for Leaks Go to the water valve that you turned off and turn it back on to check for leaks around the bathtub faucet. Look beyond the cartridge you just replaced to see if there is another source for the leak. If everything looks good reassemble the bathtub faucet with its trim plate and bathtub faucet. ## Fixing Your Leaking Bathtub Faucet: A Great DIY As far as DIY projects go, this is a great one to try if you're a beginner. The steps are fairly simple, and you don't need complex tools. Plus, changing a bathroom faucet cartridge yourself saves money. While it's always good to consult a pro if you feel out of your depth, it's worth giving this a try first. You've got this. ##### Related Tags: - [Bathroom](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/bathroom) ## Related Articles [![A bathroom faucet with black hardware.]() How-Tos How to Fix a Leaky Faucet](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/repair-a-leaky-faucet) [![A bathtub with marble tile and an antique brass 2-handle wall-mount bathtub faucet.]() Buying Guides Choosing Bathtub and Shower Faucets](https://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/choosing-bathtub-and-shower-faucets) [![]() How-Tos How to Install a Two-Handle Kitchen Faucet?](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/how-to-install-a-two-handle-kitchen-faucet) [ How-Tos How to Replace a Bathtub or Shower Faucet](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/replace-a-bathtub-or-shower-faucet) Back to Top - [Ask Mylow](https://www.lowes.com/ai "mylow ai link") - [Contact Us & FAQ](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/contact-us "Contact Us & FAQ") - [Order Status](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/orders/checkorderstatus "Order Status") - [Lowe's Credit Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/Credit "Lowe's Credit Center") - [Gift Cards](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/gift-cards "Gift Cards") - [Installation Services](https://www.lowes.com/l/install "Installation Services") - [Lowe's App](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/download-apps "Lowe's App") About Lowe's - [Who We Are](https://corporate.lowes.com/who-we-are) - [Careers](https://corporate.lowes.com/careers/) - [Our Responsibilities](https://corporate.lowes.com/our-responsibilities) - [Investors](https://corporate.lowes.com/investors) - [Newsroom](https://corporate.lowes.com/newsroom) - [Lowe's Suppliers](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/suppliers) - [Safety Unites Us](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/safe) - [Lowe’s Creators](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-creator) - [Lowe’s Brands](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-brands) - [Lowe’s Marketplace](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/lowes-marketplace) Stores & Services - [Find a Store](https://www.lowes.com/store/) - [Store Directory](https://www.lowes.com/Lowes-Stores) - [Brand Directory](https://www.lowes.com/b/lowesbrands) - [Store Services](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/store-services) - [Subscriptions](https://www.lowes.com/subscriptions) - [DIY Workshops](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas/workshops) - [MyLowe’s Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/mylowes-rewards) - [Resources for Pros](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/resources-for-pros) - [MyLowe’s Pro Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/pro-benefits) - [Site Directory](https://www.lowes.com/c/Departments) - [Best Sellers](https://www.lowes.com/best-sellers) - [Lowe’s Rental](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/rental) Customer Service - [FAQ/Contact Us](https://www.lowes.com/l/help) - [Rebates](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/rebate-center) - [Returns & Exchanges](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/returns-policy) - [Pickup, Shipping & Delivery](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/shipping-delivery) - [Special Orders](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/special-orders) - [Recalls & Product Safety](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/recalls-and-product-safety) - [Protection Plans](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/lowes-protection-plan) - [Military Discount](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/honor-our-military) - [Coupons](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/coupons) Privacy & Use - [Terms](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/terms-and-conditions-of-use) - [Privacy Statement](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement) - [Interest-Based Ads](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#OtherImportantConsiderations) - [Your CA Privacy Rights](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#YourPrivacyRightUndertheCaliforniaShinetheLightAct) - [Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\)) - [Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\)) - [Notice of Financial Incentive/Loyalty Programs](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#NoticeofFinancialIncentivePrograms/LoyaltyPrograms) ### CONNECT WITH US ### About Lowe's - [Who We Are](https://corporate.lowes.com/who-we-are) - [Careers](https://corporate.lowes.com/careers/) - [Our Responsibilities](https://corporate.lowes.com/our-responsibilities) - [Investors](https://corporate.lowes.com/investors) - [Newsroom](https://corporate.lowes.com/newsroom) - [Lowe's Suppliers](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/suppliers) - [Safety Unites Us](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/safe) - [Lowe’s Creators](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-creator) - [Lowe’s Brands](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-brands) - [Lowe’s Marketplace](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/lowes-marketplace) ### Stores & Services - [Find a Store](https://www.lowes.com/store/) - [Store Directory](https://www.lowes.com/Lowes-Stores) - [Brand Directory](https://www.lowes.com/b/lowesbrands) - [Store Services](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/store-services) - [Subscriptions](https://www.lowes.com/subscriptions) - [DIY Workshops](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas/workshops) - [MyLowe’s Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/mylowes-rewards) - [Resources for Pros](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/resources-for-pros) - [MyLowe’s Pro Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/pro-benefits) - [Site Directory](https://www.lowes.com/c/Departments) - [Best Sellers](https://www.lowes.com/best-sellers) - [Lowe’s Rental](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/rental) ### Customer Service - [FAQ/Contact Us](https://www.lowes.com/l/help) - [Rebates](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/rebate-center) - [Returns & Exchanges](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/returns-policy) - [Pickup, Shipping & Delivery](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/shipping-delivery) - [Special Orders](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/special-orders) - [Recalls & Product Safety](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/recalls-and-product-safety) - [Protection Plans](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/lowes-protection-plan) - [Military Discount](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/honor-our-military) - [Coupons](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/coupons) ### CONNECT WITH US ### Privacy & Use - [Terms](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/terms-and-conditions-of-use) - [Privacy Statement](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement) - [Interest-Based Ads](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#OtherImportantConsiderations) - [Your CA Privacy Rights](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#YourPrivacyRightUndertheCaliforniaShinetheLightAct) - [Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\)) - [Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\)) - [Notice of Financial Incentive/Loyalty Programs](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#NoticeofFinancialIncentivePrograms/LoyaltyPrograms) © 2025 Lowe's. All rights reserved. Lowe's and the Gable Mansard Design are registered trademarks of LF, LLC.