How to Recaulk a Bathtub or Shower (Clean Lines, No Mess)

Cracked, peeling, or moldy caulk lets water seep behind the tub and looks dingy. Recaulking takes about an hour of work, plus drying time.

In this guide

1. What you need
2. Steps
3. Tips for clean lines
4. Keep it looking new

What you need

• Utility knife or caulk removal tool, plastic scraper
• Rubbing alcohol and rags
• Painter’s tape
• 100% silicone kitchen-and-bath caulk with mildew resistance
• Caulk gun

Steps

1. Remove old caulk. Slice along both edges with a utility knife and pull it out. Scrape off leftovers with a plastic scraper. A caulk softener product helps with stubborn residue.
2. Kill mold. Clean the joint. See How to Remove Mold From Shower Grout on our sister site.
3. Clean and dry. Wipe with rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely, ideally overnight. Caulk won’t stick to damp surfaces.
4. Fill the tub with water. This weighs the tub down to its in-use position so the caulk doesn’t crack later. Leave it full until the caulk sets.
5. Tape. Run painter’s tape on both sides of the joint, leaving a gap about ¼ inch wide.
6. Cut the tip at a 45° angle with a small opening.
7. Apply a steady, even bead in one continuous motion along each joint.
8. Smooth with a finger dipped in soapy water, or a caulk tool.
9. Pull the tape immediately, at an angle, away from the joint.
10. Cure. Wait the time on the label, usually 24 hours, before showering. Then drain the tub.

Tips for clean lines

• Practice on a paper plate first.
• Work one wall at a time.
• Wipe mistakes immediately with a dry paper towel, before smoothing.
• Keep the room ventilated.

Keep it looking new

Run the bathroom fan during and after showers and squeegee the walls. That keeps mildew from coming back.