How to Clean and Descale a Faucet Aerator

Aerators are the unsung heroes of your home's plumbing system. These small mesh screens tucked into the tip of your faucet do the heavy lifting of mixing air into the water stream, providing a steady, splash-free flow while reducing total water consumption. Over time, however, these screens act as magnets for sediment, sand, and hard water minerals. When you notice the water stream spraying sideways, thinning out, or losing pressure, it is usually because the aerator has become clogged with mineral deposits. Cleaning an aerator is one of the most rewarding high-impact, low-cost maintenance tasks you can perform. It requires nothing more than a few basic household items and about twenty minutes of your time. Done well, your faucet will regain its original flow rate and aerated smoothness, saving you the expense and hassle of calling a plumber for what is essentially a routine clearing of the pipes.

  1. Secure the Drain First. Place a thick towel or a rag over the drain opening of the sink. This ensures that if any small parts or screws fall from your hands, they do not disappear into the P-trap below.
  2. Unscrew Without Scratching. Grip the aerator with your pliers, using a cloth between the metal jaws and the faucet finish to prevent scratching. Turn counter-clockwise to unscrew the unit from the faucet spout.
  3. Document the Stack Order. Carefully remove the internal screen, the rubber washer, and any flow-limiting discs from the housing. Keep them in order so you remember how they stack back together.
  4. Dissolve Mineral Crust. Place the aerator parts into a small bowl filled with undiluted white vinegar. Let them soak for at least fifteen minutes to allow the acid to break down the hard water crust.
  5. Clear Blocked Holes. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the mesh screen and the interior of the housing to remove loosened debris. Rinse everything thoroughly with fresh water.
  6. Reassemble Without Overtightening. Place the rubber washer back into the housing first, followed by the screen and any remaining discs. Screw the assembly back onto the faucet by hand, then snug it up with pliers if necessary.