Turn off the water under the sink before you take anything apart. If those valves won't turn or start leaking, stop and call a plumber.
What you'll need
You probably have these
Tick them off as you find them.
Only if you're missing something
- Faucet washer and O-ring kitFor compression faucets$3 to $10
- Replacement cartridgeMatch it to your old one in the store$10 to $40
- Plumber's greaseHelps new seals slide in and last$3 to $6
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The fix
- 1
Turn off the water
Look under the sink for two small valves. Turn each one clockwise until it stops.
You'll know it's right whenTurn the faucet on. A short burst, then nothing. That's what you want.
- 2
Plug the drain
Stuff a rag in the drain or close the stopper. Tiny screws love to escape.
You'll know it's right whenThe drain is fully covered.
- 3
Take off the handle
Pry off the little cap on the handle with a butter knife. Undo the screw under it and lift the handle off.
You'll know it's right whenYou can see the top of the valve inside.
- 4
Figure out your type
Two handles you crank down until they stop usually means a compression faucet with a rubber washer. Smooth turning or one handle usually means a cartridge.
You'll know it's right whenYou know which part you're hunting for.
- 5
Pull the worn part
For compression, unscrew the stem with a wrench and pull the washer off the bottom. For a cartridge, remove the clip or nut and pull the cartridge straight up.
You'll know it's right whenThe old part is in your hand.
- 6
Take it to the store
Bring the old part to a hardware store and match it side by side. Snap a photo of the faucet brand too.
You'll know it's right whenThe new part looks identical, same length and same splines on top.
- 7
Put it back together
Install the new part, then the handle. Turn the valves back on slowly.
You'll know it's right whenTurn the handle off. Watch the spout. No drip.
Listen to that. Nothing. That's the sound of a fixed faucet.
Why it happens
Every time you turn the faucet off, a rubber washer or seal squeezes shut against the water. Over years, that rubber wears, hardens, or picks up grit. Once it can't seal tight, water sneaks past one drop at a time. Hard water speeds it up. It's normal wear, like brake pads on a car.
Edie's tipTurn the handle off gently. Cranking it hard wears out washers faster.
What not to do
- Cranking the handle harder
It won't stop the drip and it chews up the washer even faster.
- Guessing the part
Faucet parts look alike and fit only one model. Bring the old one with you.
- Skipping the shut-off
Taking a faucet apart with the water on sprays the whole bathroom.
- Overtightening on the way back
Snug is enough. Too tight can crack plastic parts or strip threads.
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if the shut-off valves won't close or the faucet leaks from its base or under the sink. Same if parts are badly corroded or stuck, or it still drips after a new part. A faucet that's 15 to 20 years old may be worth replacing instead.
Questions
Which way do I turn the shut-off valve?
Clockwise to close, like tightening a jar lid. If it won't budge with hand pressure, don't force it with pliers. Old valves can break.
How do I know if I have a cartridge or compression faucet?
Compression faucets have two handles that feel squishy as you tighten them. Cartridge faucets turn smoothly and stop at a set point. Once the handle is off, the part inside tells you for sure.
Is a dripping faucet a big deal?
It wastes water and money on your bill. It can also leave stains in the sink over time. Fixing it soon is cheaper than ignoring it.
I'm renting. Should I fix it myself?
Tell your landlord first. Many leases make plumbing their job, and they may want their own person to handle it.
Written by the DIY Project team and checked against manufacturer instructions. How we check
Updated October 2, 2026.
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