I've wondered about this myself... silicone-based lubricants seem similar, but plumber's grease is specifically formulated to be safe on rubber seals and O-rings. Regular automotive grease or even some silicone sprays can have additives or solvents that degrade rubber over time. I've heard of people using food-grade silicone grease successfully, but honestly, after seeing a few DIY disasters, I'm skeptical. Maybe plumber's grease isn't the only option, but it's probably the safest bet long-term.
Good points about plumber's grease vs. other silicone lubes—I learned that lesson the hard way when I tried regular silicone spray on my bathroom faucet. Seemed fine at first, but a few months later, the seals started cracking and leaking again... total pain. Has anyone tried silicone grease labeled for scuba gear? Seems like it'd be gentle enough on rubber seals, but I'm still hesitant to experiment after my last mishap.
"Has anyone tried silicone grease labeled for scuba gear? Seems like it'd be gentle enough on rubber seals..."
Honestly, scuba grease might sound gentle, but it's also designed for completely different conditions—like saltwater exposure and high-pressure environments. Not sure that's exactly what your kitchen faucet needs. I've had decent luck with food-grade silicone grease (the stuff meant for espresso machines or brewing equipment). It's affordable, safe around drinking water, and hasn't wrecked any seals yet... might be worth a shot before you risk another DIY disaster.
I've used scuba grease once or twice in a pinch—didn't ruin anything, but honestly, it's probably overkill for kitchen plumbing. Like mentioned above, food-grade silicone grease is your best bet. It's specifically formulated to be safe around drinking water and gentle on rubber seals. Plus, it's cheap and easy to find online or at hardware stores. Might save you from another "sinkpocalypse"... trust me, been there myself and learned the hard way, haha.
Good points above, but I'd add a couple quick things from experience:
- Food-grade silicone grease is definitely the safest bet—no question there.
- If you're not confident with plumbing, even minor leaks can cause hidden water damage (been there... not fun).
- DIY is fine for simple fixes, but if you're unsure, calling a plumber early can save you headaches and money down the road.
