How to Fix a Persistent Bathroom Sink Drip

Drips are more than just an annoying sound; they represent a steady leak of water and money that slowly damages your faucet's internal components. A persistent drip usually signals that an internal seal or washer has finally given up after years of friction and mineral buildup from your local water supply. Fixing this is a rite of passage for every homeowner. By targeting the cartridge or the O-rings inside the handle assembly, you can restore a crisp, silent shut-off without calling a plumber. Done well, the repair feels like new, the handle turns smoothly, and your sink stops wasting water the moment you close the valve.

1. Stop the Water Flow First. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they are fully closed. Open the faucet handles to bleed out any remaining pressure in the lines.
2. Pop Off the Decorative Cap. Pry off the decorative cap on top of the handle to reveal the mounting screw. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and pull the handle straight up and off the stem.
3. Pull Out the Cartridge. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut or the cartridge retaining nut. Once loose, pull the cartridge or stem assembly straight out of the faucet body.
4. Spot Worn Seals and Washers. Check the rubber O-rings and the washer at the bottom of the cartridge for cracks or flattening. If the parts look worn, take the entire cartridge to the hardware store to ensure an exact match.
5. Seat the New Cartridge. Slide the new cartridge or replace the worn washers onto the old stem. Ensure it is seated properly in the faucet body and tighten the retaining nut firmly with your wrench.
6. Verify No Leaks Remain. Reattach the handle, then slowly turn on the water supply valves under the sink. Turn the faucet on and off several times to ensure the drip has stopped and the water flow is steady.