How to Clean Your Faucet Aerator (and Why)

If you look at the bottom of any modern kitchen or bathroom sink faucet, you’ll probably see a small round screen called an aerator. This thin piece of metal adds air to help control the water coming out of the faucet. This reduces splashes and water usage.

The aerator also acts as a sort of filter, trapping any debris left in the water. And over time, that slime, along with deposits and other sediments, May reduce the effectiveness of the aeratorLuckily, cleaning isn’t difficult. Here’s what to do.

How to clean the faucet aerator

To clean the aerator, first remove from faucetThe aerator, which is screwed onto the outside of the faucet, can usually be removed by hand, but may need to be loosened slightly with pliers or a wrench first.

Other aerators, known as “hidden” or “embedded” aerators, screw inside the faucet and require a small key to remove. If this is your case and the faucet is relatively new, it likely came with a key.

When the aerator leaves the faucet, Soak in a glass of white vinegar About 5 minutes. Then scrub with a small brush (such as an old toothbrush) to remove any remaining debris and mineral deposits. If vinegar doesn’t work, try soaking the aerator in a mixture of citric acid and water instead. Once clean, put the aerator back on the faucet.

Ideally, the aerator should be cleaned every six monthsand after construction work affecting water service.