Plumber's Putty

Plumber's putty is a soft, oil-based sealing compound used to create watertight seals around non-pressurized plumbing fixtures — primarily sink drain baskets, faucet bases, and tub strainers. It stays pliable for years, allowing easy removal and re-sealing when fixtures need to be replaced.

How do you use plumber's putty?

1. Roll a rope of putty roughly ½ inch in diameter
2. Press it around the underside of the drain flange or faucet base
3. Press the fixture into position — putty squeezes out around the edges
4. Wipe away excess with a damp cloth
5. Tighten the mounting nut underneath — this draws the fixture tight against the putty seal

When should you not use plumber's putty?

• On plastic or acrylic sinks — putty can stain or crack certain plastics
• On pressurized supply connections — use thread tape (PTFE) or pipe dope instead
• On porous stone countertops (marble, granite) — oil in putty can cause permanent staining
• In place of silicone caulk for shower fixtures — putty degrades when submerged

Plumber's putty or silicone caulk — which should you use?

Putty is easier to remove and re-do; silicone forms a harder, more permanent bond. For kitchen sink strainers, either works. For shower drain covers or applications where water pools, silicone or waterproof caulk is preferred.

What is the shelf life of plumber's putty?

Putty dries out over time in an opened container. Fresh putty is soft and pliable; putty that crumbles when rolled is too old and should be replaced. A good can of plumber's putty costs $4–$8 and lasts 2–5 years if the lid is kept tight.