Why Does My Tap Keep Dripping After I Turn It Off?
For a kitchen or bathroom tap that continues to drip from the spout after the handle is fully turned off, rather than a one-off drop left in the spout.
What this usually means
A tap that keeps dripping after it is turned off is usually failing to seal internally. Traditional taps often rely on a washer, while many modern quarter-turn and mixer taps use ceramic valves or cartridges. Limescale and water-borne debris can stop those parts closing cleanly, and worn seals eventually need replacement. Before buying parts, identify the tap type and isolate the water supply, because cartridges that look similar can differ in size, spline and direction.
What may be causing this
A rubber washer is worn or damaged
Clues: The tap uses a traditional multi-turn mechanism and the drip changes as the handle is tightened.
What to do: Replace the correct washer and inspect the seating. Do not overtighten the tap to compensate because that can damage the mechanism further.
A ceramic valve or cartridge is worn
Clues: The tap is quarter-turn or single-lever and still drips even though the handle reaches its normal stop.
What to do: Identify the exact cartridge or valve and replace it if servicing does not restore a proper seal.
Limescale or debris is preventing the valve from closing
Clues: The tap became drippy gradually, feels slightly gritty or is in a hard-water area.
What to do: Manufacturer guidance often allows cartridges to be removed and descaled after isolating the water. Follow the specific tap instructions.
The valve seating or internal seals are damaged
Clues: A new washer or cleaned cartridge does not stop the drip, or the tap body itself shows corrosion or wear.
What to do: The valve, seating or complete tap may need replacement.
How to check what is happening
The tap probably uses a ceramic valve rather than a traditional rubber washer.
The valve is not sealing properly.
Use that exact part rather than guessing from appearance.
The faulty valve can often be narrowed to that side.
Can you fix this yourself?
Replacing a washer or serviceable cartridge can be a reasonable DIY job if you can isolate the water and identify the exact tap parts. Modern cartridges vary widely, so taking the old one out safely and matching it is often more important than the actual fitting work.
- Adjustable spanner or correct-size spanner
- Screwdriver or hex key if required by the tap
- Old towel
- Correct replacement washer, valve or cartridge
What you can safely try
- 1
Identify the tap type before buying anything
A traditional multi-turn tap, quarter-turn tap and single-lever mixer use different internal parts. Check the brand, fitting instructions or cartridge reference if available.
- 2
Turn the water off before opening the tap
Close the local isolation valves or main stop tap and open the tap to confirm the flow has stopped before removing any handle or valve.
- 3
Inspect the washer, valve or cartridge
Look for worn seals, obvious limescale or debris. Follow the manufacturer's servicing instructions rather than forcing clips, shrouds or retaining nuts.
- 4
Clean or replace the correct part
If the manufacturer permits descaling, clean the cartridge and seals. Replace visibly damaged or worn parts with an exact match.
- 5
Turn the water back on slowly and test
Reassemble the tap, restore the supply slowly and check both the spout and any disturbed joints for leaks before considering the repair finished.
Call a plumber if…
- The isolation valve leaks or will not close.
- The tap body, flexible tails or connections are leaking as well as the spout.
- You cannot identify the correct cartridge or valve.
- The retaining parts are seized enough that excessive force would be needed.
Get the right plumber.
We already know this problem maps primarily to a plumber. Choose the closest type of work, add your postcode and continue in the form.
Sources used for this guide
We prefer primary UK guidance, regulators and manufacturers for technical and safety-sensitive claims.
- How to Stop a Dripping TapWaterSafe Register
- Kitchen Taps, Bathroom Taps and Showers — FAQsBristan
Last reviewed: 31 August 2026. Home Manual updates review dates only when the substance of a guide is checked or changed.