Image: MomJunction Design Team
To prevent leakage and mold and mildew build up in your bathtub, you need the best bathtub caulk, which is an adhesive and bonding material that helps form a watertight barrier. The waterproof paste with sealant properties protects your bathtub from the threat of cracking. Keep scrolling as we have listed the best bathroom caulks that are waterproof and mildew-proof to help you maintain your bathroom’s pristine look and protect your bathtub from leaking.
Top Picks
7 Best Bathtub Caulks
1. Best Shrink-Resistant:Flex Shot Rubber Adhesive Sealant Caulk
Image: Flexseal Flex Shot uses a formula that can expand or contract. It is a thick rubber-based caulk that can seal almost everything and act as a gap filler by forming a watertight seal without running or dripping. The viscous adhesive can fill huge cracks and immediately prevent severe leaks.
This scientifically designed formula works at the push of a nozzle to produce the perfect bead every time. From toilet repair to bathtub repair, this high-quality caulk is an ideal seal to prevent any leakage. The formula for bathtub caulking is available in white and almond to suit your bathtub. Here’s a personal review video detailing the tester’s experience of using the product that can help you get a clear understanding of it.
Pros
- Shrink-resistant
- Mess-free
- Fills huge cracks perfectly
- Thick rubber sealant
Cons
- Less quantity
"The durability of this sealant has allowed it to withstand salty water, rain, and the scorching sun. It does require some time to cure, so you may have to plan accordingly. Nevertheless, its no-fuss application has made it my preferred DIY solution."
Quick tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 667 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
2. Best Heavy-Duty:Gorilla Sealant Caulk
Image: Gorillatough Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 671 buyers on Amazon have said the product lives up to the hype.
Gorilla is a super thick rubber sealant that can caulk and bond almost everything, including bathtub cracks. The heavy-duty construction adhesive is a 100% silicone sealant. It does not fade, shrink, or crack over time. The sealant tube works by cutting the nozzle to the desired bead size to achieve a smooth application. The silicon caulk dries into translucent color so that it blends with all bathtubs.
Pros
- Dries in 30 minutes
- Crack-free
- Mess-free
- Easy to use
- Mold- and mildew-resistant
Cons
- No instructions on the packaging
"This caulk has successfully repaired car windows, kitchen sinks, and many other things around the house. It is waterproof, dries quickly, and blends well with the surface on which I applied it. However, it has a strong odor, so I recommend wearing a mask while using it."
Quick tip3. Best Flexible:GE Silicone II Bath Sealant
Image: Gesealants Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 261 good reviews on Amazon.
The GE Silicone II Bath Sealant is a 10.1 oz paste packed in a tube for easy application and use. Its 100% silicone formula is tested to protect the surface from water damage by stopping any seepage. It can provide reliable joint sealing in places that are constantly exposed to water. This sealant provides permanent flexibility and can withstand extreme contraction and expansion related to temperature fluctuations.
Pros
- Provides 5x stronger adhesion
- Activates quickly
- Provides a flexible seal
- Easy caulk removal process
- Remains mold-free for up to ten years
Cons
- Cannot be painted over
- May turn yellow after drying
"This caulk has been able to do everything from helping me install bathroom fixtures to filling sizeable cracks. However, it requires a steady hand to get the application right. Nonetheless, its compatibility with different surfaces has made it my preferred adhesive."
Do rememberFlex Shot Rubber Adhesive Sealant Caulk Best Shrink-Resistant | Gorilla Sealant Caulk Best Heavy-Duty | GE Silicone II Bath Sealant Best Flexible | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | Clear | White |
| Material | Rubber | Silicone | Silicone |
| Dimensions | 1 x 1 x 1 inches | 1.41 x 3.75 x 7.63 inches | 3 x 3 x 10 inches |
| Weight | 8 Ounces | 0.01 ounces | 4.5 ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 667 | 671 | 261 |
| Price | $16.87 | $11.69 | $17.17 |
4. Best Mold-Free:GE Painter’s Quick Dry White Siliconized Acrylic Latex Caulk
Image: Gesealants The GE Painter’s Quick Dry White Siliconized Acrylic Latex Caulk is used as a strip caulk and is suitable for doors, window frames, molding, baseboard, trim, etc. The white caulk is formulated with silicone and takes up to 20 minutes to be painting-ready. It comes in a 10.1 fl oz bottle and is suitable for immediate spray paint application. The tried-and-tested siliconized latex caulk ensures easy water clean-up and has low odor for your convenience, thus making your bathtub maintenance easier, faster, and hassle-free.
Pros
- Suitable for most oil-based and latex paints
- Ensures durability and dependability
- Shrink- and crack-proof
- Strong adhesion
- Fast-drying formula
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Can take more time to dry
- May require 24-hour protection from moisture for the best results
"This caulk works both as an adhesive and a sealant. Hence, I have been able to use it outdoors and indoors. It sticks to almost anything and dries pretty quickly. Plus, the paintable finish is a bonus."
5. Best Waterproof:Dap Kwik-Seal All-Purpose Caulk
Image: Dap Dap is an all-purpose caulk-sealant. With its flexible feature, it provides a durable and waterproof seal for your shower tubs. It is made of latex polymer, which bonds and seals well. The cured bath caulk is tested against mold and mildew and prevents them from growing inside. This scientifically designed high-quality caulk is suitable for any indoor use.
Pros
- Easy to use, store, and clean
- Good power-output
- Low odor
- Paintable caulk
- Can be used for recaulking purposes
Cons
- Poor packaging
"I got this caulk for a small home improvement task, but its effectiveness has earned it a permanent spot in my home. Dispensing it from the tube takes effort, but the clear drying, waterproof seal it creates makes the hassle worth it."
6. Best Low-Odor:Loctite Polyseamseal Tub & Tile Adhesive Caulk
Image: Loctiteproducts The Loctite Polyseamseal Tub & Tile Adhesive Caulk comes in a squeeze tube, making it easy to press and apply. It comes in 5.5 fl oz. and is a compatible sealant for only ceramic material. The adhesive paste has a waterproof formulation that is useful for bathrooms and kitchens. It is an ideal choice for tub sealing as it has the strength of a premium-quality adhesive.
Pros
- Mildew-resistant formulation
- Strong and long-lasting adhesion
- Low odor
- Creates an easy-to-clean surface
- Professional paintable finish
- Abrasion- and color change-resistant
Cons
- May take long to dry
- Actual color may vary from the description
"I used this caulk to fix a large crack a few months ago, and the seal created by it is still going strong. Its application process is also straightforward, but I recommend warming the tube to ease the flow. Overall, it has been an effective find."
7. Best Temperature-Resistant:Liquid Nails Super Caulk
Image: Liquidnails Liquid Nails is an acrylic siliconized latex caulk that provides maximum adhesion for bathtubs and tiles. Its bright white color blends easily with most bathtub models. This vinyl acrylic caulk with silicone creates a waterproof and mildew-resistant seal. As per reviews, the flexible and durable adhesive is also suitable for use in extreme temperatures. This waterproof caulk offers excellent adhesion to plastics and other surfaces.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Easy to clean
- Dust-free
- Paintable caulk
- Certified by UL Environment
Cons
- Small tube compared to the price
"I have used this adhesive for various projects, and it has worked on almost everything. It may not fit with smaller caulk guns, but its performance and bonding strength have been impressive."
How To Choose The Right Caulk For Bathtub?
Consider the following factors when choosing a bathtub caulk.
- Silicon: Choose pure silicone or siliconized acrylic caulks for enhanced sealing power. These waterproof caulks are flexible and rarely break due to thermal expansion.
- Packaging: Caulks come in small tubes or large cylindrical cartridges. You can choose the type that best suits your caulking project.
- Mildew- and mold-resistant: Mildew- and mold-resistant caulks are considered good options. Check on the packaging for the number of years the caulk can hold up against mildew and mold.
- Drying time: It takes 30 minutes to 12 hours for the silicone caulk to dry. For caulking around the bathtubs, choose caulks that take less time to dry.
- Color: The best bathroom caulking formulas come in various colors. While cream, natural white and almond caulks are suitable for colored tubs, the transparent ones are most versatile because they can blend with any bathtub.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What will happen if I don’t caulk my bathtub?
If you don’t caulk your bathtub periodically, water from the tub may seep into the tiles and walls, thus causing dampness, wall paint shedding, and mold buildup—factors that make a bathroom shabby and unhealthy.
2. Can I put a second layer of caulk?
Double layering can be done if desired, but the second coat should be applied only once the first layer has dried and rested for two to three days. In terms of caulking over old caulk, remove the old beading and apply the new one, especially while using a silicone-based caulk.
3. Do I need to fill the tub with water before caulking?
To prevent cracks and to seal the caulk seamlessly, it’s always advisable to fill the tub with water before caulking and to keep it full throughout the curing process.
4. How thick should the caulk be?
The caulk beading should be at least a quarter of an inch thick to ensure a crack-free solid seal that provides complete coverage even after shrinking while drying.
5. How long does it take to use the bathtub after applying the caulk?
You may use the bathtub after 12 to 24 hours.
6. What is the fastest way to cure caulking?
The quickest way to cure caulking is to place a fan in the room to speed up the process.
7. How do I prevent mold in shower caulking?
For stubborn molds, use ammonia or bleaching powder to clean them.
Why Trust MomJunction?
We have compiled this list of the best caulks for tubs available in the market after considering their quality and features. These waterproof sealants have been endorsed by several reviewers on various e-commerce sites and are claimed to be effective for bathtub water leakage prevention. We have also included an informative buying guide to help you choose the right tub caulk as per your needs.
The Bottom Line
Caulks are adhesive bonding materials that resist mold and mildew while serving as an excellent remedy to cracks in the bathtub. The best tub caulks are available in various colors to suit your bathtub and the decor of your bathroom. For instance, you can choose the easy-to-apply and quick-drying Flex Shot Rubber Adhesive Sealant Caulk for mess-free application and the translucent Gorilla Sealant Caulk for a seamless seal. However, when buying one, ensure it is made of silicon or silicon-based acrylic, comes in the right-sized package, and is quick to dry. The caulk should also be waterproof, easy to apply and clean, have a mild odor, and be quick-drying.
Infographic: How To Caulk A Bathtub?
Caulking helps the bathtub stay intact and prevents leakage and mildew growth. It is always recommended to use caulks designed especially for a bathtub or a kitchen sink, as they are made of material that resists water. However, remember that the caulks stick well only on smooth and non-porous surfaces. Check out this infographic to learn more about the caulking procedure. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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