Put a little rack under the bucket (like a dishrack) to keep it off the surface of the tub and allow air to circulate under there?

Thanks! That's a great idea!

We had the same issue, and just shut the tub plug and let it fill up. We then used a bucket to empty the tub and water the garden.

It didn't mildew because we emptied it about every 2 days.

Buy a book, like a homeowners guide to plumbing problems, or Plumbing for Idiots (not that you are one), or some magazines at the library that show what makes a faucet leak.

Anyone who can handle a wrench and screwdriver can remove a cartridge or valve stem. A new one can be purchased at most hardware stores for under twenty bucks. Or if it just the rubber washer at the bottom of the valve stem, it will cost under a buck for a new one.

First, find out how to shut off the water to the tub. There should be an access to the valves behind the tub wall. If not, you may have to shut off the main water valve while you check/remove the cartridge etc. Is this a dual faucet or a single handle one?

Check your community education center. Many have classes on minor home repairs that cost very little.

Demeter: Thanks! I found a plastic covered metal rack meant to be used as extra shelving in a kitchen cabinet. It is strong enough to support the weight of the bucket & so far, no mildew. Sniffmeister: my plug is broken, too, so that's not an option. Dewymn: No, I'm not an idiot, but I am somewhat disabled. I can't handle a wrench & sometimes, can't handle a screwdriver. I can lift the bu8cket & use the water to flush the toilet if I don't let the bucket get too full. I do what I can, but I'm afraid I'll need a plumber. It will get fixed eventually, but there are other things that must be taken care of first. Thanks to all.

Do you have a local paper where handyman or handywomen advertise for work? Some maintenance people (like myself) get asked all the time to do odd jobs for people. I pick up a little extra cash this way and don't charge much. If I feel a job is better done by a contractor in that trade, I recommend some that I know of who don't take advantage of people. I hope you didn't think I was calling you an idiot. I am one in some areas, especially computers, and find those idiots guides to everything very helpful references.

Deweymn: I didn't take it as an insult. We have purchased or borrowed several Idiots & Dummies books & they really are very helpful. I have a young carpenter who works for only $15 an hour, but plumbers who work cheap are darn hard to find.
As I said, it will get fixed eventually. I need to work on some other projects first.

Hi, you should not have to go through the drywall to fix a shower faucet. You can get the replacement stems or cartridge at a home supply center. Then, turn off the water to the house, remove the trim and the old cartridge or stems and replace. A plumber or handyman can do this. Also, if you are skilled a DIY is possible. Eric Da Plumber

Here is a link that might be useful: Faucets