How to Caulk a Bathtub

Apply a watertight seal around your bathtub

⚡Quick Answer

Remove all old caulk. Clean with alcohol, dry completely. Apply 100% silicone caulk, smooth with wet finger. Wait 24-48 hrs to use.

Use a caulk remover tool or razor blade to cut out old caulk. Pull out strips. Clean residue with rubbing alcohol.

💡Get all old caulk out - new caulk won't stick to old caulk well.

Clean the joint with rubbing alcohol or bleach solution. Let dry completely. Tape both sides of joint for clean lines.

💡Surface must be completely dry - moisture prevents adhesion.

Cut caulk tube tip at 45° angle. Load gun. Apply steady bead along entire joint. Smooth with wet finger or caulk tool.

💡Use 100% silicone caulk for bathrooms - it's waterproof and mold-resistant.

Remove tape immediately while caulk is wet. Let cure 24-48 hours before using tub. Good ventilation helps.

💡Don't use tub until fully cured or water will damage the seal.

100% silicone caulk - waterproof and flexible. 'Kitchen & Bath' labeled products have mold inhibitors.

Every 3-5 years, or when you see cracks, mold, or peeling. Good caulk prevents costly water damage.

Poor adhesion (surface wasn't clean/dry), wrong caulk type (latex shrinks), or applied too thick.

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