How to Remove Old Caulk From a Tub, Shower, or Sink

Project Overview
  • Working Time: 1 hr, 30 mins
  • Total Time: 8 hrs
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Estimated Cost: $15 to $25

Before applying new caulk around your bathtub, shower, or sink, you must first remove the old caulk. New caulk doesn't stick to old caulk, so if you fail to remove the old stuff, it can't form a watertight seal, leaving the potential for moisture to seep into areas where you don't want it.

The best way to remove caulk is through chemical caulk remover and manual tools. Chemical removers require some time to soften the caulk, so if you are in a hurry or don't want to use chemicals, you can remove the caulk with hand tools alone, like putty or utility knives, or a caulk remover tool.

Learn more about the best steps to remove the caulk, special removal tools, and chemical remover solutions.

Old caulk being removed with caulk removal scraper

The Spruce / Liz Moskowitz

Tip

It's best to opt for plastic or polished steel tools to remove caulking. Cheap metal tools may scratch or mar the surface of the basin or fixture.

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Plastic putty knife
  • Caulk removal tool or razor scraper

Materials

  • Chemical caulk remover
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Cloths

Instructions

Materials and tools to remove old caulk on wooden surface

The Spruce / Liz Moskowitz

How to Remove Old Caulk

  1. Apply the Chemical Caulk Remover and Let Sit

    • Squeeze chemical remover onto the old caulk bead so the caulk is covered completely.
    • Let the caulk remover sit on the caulk as directed by the manufacturer's instructions. Some users report that it helps to allow the product to be set overnight for maximum effectiveness. 
    Chemical remover sprayed on old caulk in bathtub and wall corner

    The Spruce / Liz Moskowitz

  2. Scrape Away the Caulk

    • Use a plastic putty knife, caulk remover tool, or razor scraper to remove the old caulk. If possible, try to peel it off in strips as you scrape.  
    • Inspect the area.
    • Clean up the old caulk remnants using a shop vac to pick up the debris.
    Old caulk scraped with metal putty knife

    The Spruce / Liz Moskowitz

  3. Clean the Surfaces

    • Clean the surfaces thoroughly with a clean cloth moistened with rubbing alcohol. The cleaner the area, the easier it will be for the new caulk to bond correctly.
    • Allow the surface to dry completely before applying the new caulk. 
    Rubbing alcohol rubbed over old caulk with white cloth

    The Spruce / Liz Moskowitz

Special Caulk Removal Tools and Solutions

Chemical Removers

One easy way to start the process of caulk removal is to use a ​caulk removal solution, such as the products made by 3M, DAP, and other brands. This chemical remover destroys the bond between the old caulk and the tile, tub, or sink, making it easy to pry caulk out of cracks and crevices. 

Manual Caulk Remover Tool

Several manufacturers make caulk removal tools, sometimes in kits that include tools for applying and smoothing new caulk. The better tools are made of plastic or polished steel that won't scratch surfaces and have angles and blades designed to scrape caulk from narrow crevices and corners. A caulk remover tool from Hyde has a corner scraper blade that is reversible and replaceable to ensure you always have a sharp tool.

Caulk removal tools can be used by themselves, but they are also great as the second step after applying chemical caulk remover.

Razor Scraper

Another tool that works well is a good old-fashioned razor scraper. The trick here is to use a very sharp blade and ensure the blade edge is flat on the surface to prevent scratching. A razor is ideal for getting behind thin smears of old caulk.

Generally, it is best to scrape behind both side edges of the caulk bead to separate it from the surface, then try to peel it off in long strips. To prevent scratching, be careful not to let the corners of the blade contact the surface. Keep the tool at a low angle—almost flat to the surface—at all times. Acrylic and fiberglass surfaces are especially susceptible to scratching.

FAQ
  • What is the easiest way to remove caulk from a shower?

    To remove caulk easily, use a chemical caulk remover and manual tools like a caulk remover tool, razor, utility, or putty knife.

  • What dissolves waterproof caulk?

    To remove waterproof caulk made with silicone, it's best to use vinegar, alcohol, or WD-40.

  • What is the easiest way to remove dried silicone caulk?

    If you need a stronger solution to remove dried silicone caulk, use industrial-grade isopropyl alcohol.

  • What is the best tool to remove silicone caulk from shower?

    A plastic or polished steel caulk remover tool is the best tool to remove caulk. Tools like utility knives, flat scrapers, or putty knives will also work. Plastic is preferred since it's less likely to scratch or mar the surface.