How to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet AeratorsHow to Clean Faucet Aerators

How to Clean Faucet Aerators

Complete checklist with climate-adjusted recommendations

Overview

Unscrew faucet aerators and soak in vinegar to remove mineral buildup. Restores water pressure and improves flow consistency.

DIY FriendlyEasy~20 min

Step-by-Step Guide

Close the drain

Before removing anything, close the sink drain or place a towel over it. Aerator parts are small and easily lost down the drain. Keep a small bowl nearby to hold all the pieces.

Remove the aerator

Grip the aerator tip at the end of the faucet and unscrew it counterclockwise by hand. If it is stuck, wrap it with a rubber band or cloth for grip, then use pliers gently. Wrap the jaws of the pliers with tape to avoid scratching the finish.

Disassemble and note the order

Carefully take apart the aerator components — typically a housing, mixer screen, flow restrictor, rubber washer, and outer casing. Lay them out in order on a towel so you remember the reassembly sequence. Take a photo with your phone if helpful.

Soak in white vinegar

Place all components in a bowl of white vinegar and let them soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour. For heavy mineral buildup, soak overnight. The acetic acid dissolves calcium and lime deposits without damaging the metal or rubber.

Scrub away remaining deposits

After soaking, use an old toothbrush to scrub each piece, paying special attention to the mesh screens. Use a toothpick or safety pin to clear any clogged holes in the screen. Rinse each piece under running water.

Inspect the rubber washer

Check the small rubber O-ring or washer for cracks, hardening, or deformation. A worn washer causes drips at the aerator connection. Replace it if it is not pliable — universal aerator washer kits are available at any hardware store for a few dollars.

Reassemble and reinstall

Stack the components back in the original order and screw the aerator back onto the faucet clockwise. Hand-tighten firmly — do not use pliers to tighten or you risk cracking the housing or stripping threads. Turn on the faucet to test flow.

What You'll Need

Tools

- Pliers (optional, for stuck aerators)
- Old toothbrush
- Toothpick or safety pin
- Small bowl

Materials

- White vinegar
- Cloth or rubber band (for grip)
- Tape (to protect finish from pliers)
- Replacement washer (if needed)

Cost Estimates

DIY Cost

$0 - $5

Professional Cost

$50 - $150

Safety Tips

Always close the drain before disassembling small parts over a sink.
Do not use harsh chemical drain cleaners or CLR on rubber washers — vinegar is sufficient and safe.
Wrap plier jaws with tape or cloth to prevent scratching chrome or brushed nickel finishes.

When to Call a Professional

Call a plumber if the aerator threads are stripped and it won't reattach, if low water pressure persists after cleaning (indicating a deeper supply line issue), or if the faucet body itself is corroded.

Pro Tip

Clean aerators on every faucet in your home twice a year. In hard water areas, do it quarterly. A clogged aerator doesn't just reduce pressure — it can cause the faucet to spray sideways and waste water.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not closing the drain, losing small parts down the pipe.
Forgetting the order of internal components during reassembly.
Using pliers directly on the aerator finish, leaving scratch marks.
Over-tightening during reinstallation, which strips the threads.
Skipping the rubber washer inspection, leading to drips at the aerator.

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