A dripping bathroom tap might seem like a small annoyance, but over time it can waste a surprising amount of water, increase your utility bills, and drive you mad with that constant drip… drip… drip. What starts as a minor issue often signals wear or damage inside the tap that won’t fix itself.

The good news is that most dripping taps are caused by simple, common problems — and many of them are easy to fix without calling a plumber. Understanding what’s going wrong helps you decide whether it’s a quick DIY repair or something that needs professional attention.

Let’s break down the most common reasons your bathroom tap is dripping and the easiest ways to stop it.

1. Worn-Out Washer or Seal

One of the most common causes of a dripping tap is a worn or damaged washer or seal. These small rubber or silicone components create a watertight barrier when the tap is turned off. Over time, constant pressure and friction cause them to degrade.

How It Causes Dripping

When the washer no longer forms a tight seal, water continues to seep through even when the tap is fully closed. This is especially common in older taps or those used frequently.

Signs This Is the Problem

  • Dripping continues even after tightening the tap firmly

  • The drip worsens over time

  • The tap feels slightly loose or less responsive

Easy Fix

  • Turn off the water supply

  • Remove the tap handle and access the washer

  • Replace the worn washer with a new one of the same size

  • Reassemble the tap and test

This fix is inexpensive and often solves the problem immediately. Regular washer replacement can prevent future leaks.

2. Faulty Tap Cartridge

Modern bathroom taps, especially mixer taps, rely on a cartridge instead of traditional washers. The cartridge controls water flow and temperature by mixing hot and cold water inside the tap.

How It Causes Dripping

Over time, the cartridge can wear out, crack, or become clogged with mineral deposits. When it no longer seals properly, water escapes, causing a drip even when the tap is turned off.

Signs This Is the Problem

  • Dripping occurs from a single-lever mixer tap

  • Water temperature becomes harder to control

  • The tap handle feels stiff or uneven when turning

Easy Fix

  • Shut off the water supply

  • Remove the handle to access the cartridge

  • Take out the old cartridge and replace it with a matching one

  • Reassemble and test the tap

Cartridge replacement is slightly more involved than changing a washer but still manageable for many homeowners.

3. Loose or Worn Tap Components

Sometimes, a dripping tap isn’t caused by a single damaged part but by components that have loosened over time.

How It Causes Dripping

Vibration, repeated use, and temperature changes can cause internal nuts, screws, or fittings to loosen. Even a slightly loose component can prevent the tap from sealing properly.

Signs This Is the Problem

  • Dripping starts suddenly after months of normal use

  • The tap handle feels wobbly

  • You notice water leaking from the base of the tap

Easy Fix

  • Turn off the water supply

  • Disassemble the tap carefully

  • Tighten all internal fittings gently

  • Check for worn parts while inside and replace if needed

Be careful not to overtighten, as this can crack ceramic components or strip threads.

4. Mineral Buildup and Hard Water Damage

Hard water contains minerals like calcium and lime that can build up inside your tap over time. This buildup interferes with how parts fit together and seal.

How It Causes Dripping

Mineral deposits prevent washers, cartridges, or seals from sitting flush. Even a tiny gap caused by scale can allow water to leak continuously.

Signs This Is the Problem

  • White or chalky residue around the tap spout

  • Reduced water flow

  • Dripping combined with uneven spray patterns

Easy Fix

  • Disassemble the tap

  • Soak affected parts in a vinegar solution to dissolve mineral buildup

  • Scrub gently with a soft brush

  • Rinse thoroughly and reassemble

Regular cleaning helps prevent scale from damaging internal components and prolongs tap life.

5. High Water Pressure

While less common, excessive water pressure can contribute to dripping taps, especially if other parts are already slightly worn.

How It Causes Dripping

High pressure puts extra strain on washers, seals, and cartridges, forcing water through small gaps. Over time, this accelerates wear and makes leaks more likely.

Signs This Is the Problem

  • Multiple taps in your home drip or leak

  • Water sprays forcefully when taps are turned on

  • Plumbing noises like banging or whistling

Easy Fix

  • Install a pressure-reducing valve if pressure is consistently high

  • Adjust existing valves to lower water pressure

  • Replace worn tap components affected by pressure damage

Addressing pressure issues protects not just your taps but your entire plumbing system.

6. When to Repair vs Replace the Tap

Sometimes, repeated dripping is a sign that your tap has reached the end of its lifespan.

Repair Makes Sense When:

  • The tap is relatively new

  • The drip is caused by a washer, seal, or cartridge

  • Replacement parts are easily available

Replacement Is Better When:

  • The tap is old or heavily corroded

  • Internal parts are difficult to source

  • Dripping returns frequently despite repairs

  • The tap no longer matches your bathroom’s style or efficiency needs

Modern taps often offer improved water efficiency, smoother operation, and better durability, making replacement a worthwhile upgrade in some cases.

7. Preventing Future Drips

A few simple habits can help keep your bathroom taps drip-free:

  • Avoid overtightening taps when turning them off

  • Clean aerators and internal parts periodically

  • Address minor leaks early before they worsen

  • Use gentle cleaning products that don’t damage seals

  • Schedule occasional plumbing checks, especially in older homes

Preventive care reduces wear and helps your tap last longer without leaks.

Final Thoughts

A dripping bathroom tap is more than just an irritation — it’s usually a sign of a worn washer, faulty cartridge, loose component, mineral buildup, or high water pressure. The good news is that most of these problems have straightforward fixes that don’t require advanced plumbing skills.

By identifying the cause early and applying the right solution, you can stop the drip, save water, and restore your bathroom tap to smooth, silent operation. Whether you choose a quick DIY repair or decide it’s time for a replacement, taking action now prevents bigger plumbing headaches later.

A quiet tap doesn’t just save water — it brings peace back to your bathroom.