Kitchen sink

Small leak under the drain trap

Ready

Homeowner note

Time 20-35 min

Cost $6-$18

Risk Low

Before you start

Clear the cabinet, put a towel below the trap, and do not use chemical drain cleaner while working.

Dry the area and confirm the drip point. Run water for 10 seconds, then watch the two trap nuts and the curved bottom section.
Hand-tighten the slip-joint nuts. Turn each white ring clockwise by hand. Use pliers only for a small final nudge.
Test again with warm water. Fill the sink partway, release the drain, and watch for new drops.
Replace the washer if it still leaks. Remove the leaking nut, swap the beveled washer, re-seat the pipe, and retighten.

Slip-joint washer kit

Match the pipe size, usually 1-1/2 in. for kitchen drains.

Bucket and towel

Catch standing water in the trap before loosening parts.

Channel-lock pliers

Use lightly. Over-tightening can crack plastic nuts.

Easy DIY