How to Clean an Aerator on a Kitchen or Bathroom Sink Faucet

You can always tell when it is time to clean the aerator on your kitchen or bathroom sink. The water begins to come out of the faucet in spurts or erratically. You might even experience a small spray of water shooting directly out the side of the aerator. Then, you know that there is some debris in the aerator. Mineral deposits and tiny stones get stuck in the screen of the aerator clogging the aerator and not allowing the water to flow smoothly through. Cleaning the aerator is quick and easy.

Things You'll Need

• Small bowl
• Vinegar
• Vise grips or pliers
• Soft rag or wash cloth
• Old tooth brush

Instructions

1. Fill a small bowl with vinegar. You will need enough vinegar in the bowl to cover the aerator.

2. Put the stopper in the sink. This is just in case you happen to drop any parts of the aerator. You do not want them going down into the drain of the sink.

3. Remove the aerator from the faucet. This part is just screwed on to the faucet so you should be able to easily remove it. Minerals may have caked on the aerator, however, and it may take a little gentle persuasion to get it off. If that is the case take a small rag or washcloth and wrap it around the aerator. The cloth will prevent you from scratching the surface of the aerator. Then take your vise grips or pliers and gently twist it off.

4. Place the aerator in the bowl with the vinegar making sure that the vinegar covers the aerator. The aerator is made up of a small screen, a frame that holds the screen, and a rubber washer. In most instances you will not have to take the aerator apart to clean it. However, if you do need to take it apart or if it comes apart as you are cleaning it don't worry; it can easily be put together. The screen goes into the frame and then the washer goes next. Then, the unit fits into the metal or chrome housing that you just unscrewed from the faucet.

5. Soak the aerator in the vinegar for several hours. You will notice that the minerals are easily removed after the soaking. If need be, you can scrub the outside of the aerator with the tooth brush to get any remaining minerals off. By doing a visual inspection of the aerator you will be able to tell if it is now clear of any debris.

6. Screw the aerator back onto the faucet. Be careful not to over tighten the aerator. Slowly turn the water on. Check to see if any water is leaking out the sides of the aerator. If it is you just need to turn the water off and tighten it a little bit more. Once again turn the water on slowly and check the aerator for leaks. The water should be flowing smoothly out of the aerator. This may need to be done every six months depending upon the mineral content of your water.

Tips & Warnings

• If your aerator screen looks really worn or has any holes or tears in it then you will need to replace it. Just take your old aerator with you to the hardware store to find a replacement, this way there will be no mistakes in getting the size aerator that you need.