How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet Aerator

A clogged or worn aerator is one of the easiest faucet problems to fix yourself, and one of the most rewarding. You'll notice the problem immediately: water sprays in a weak mist, or splits into two streams instead of flowing smoothly. The aerator is a small cylindrical screen that sits at the tip of your spout. It mixes air into the water stream, saves water, and catches sediment—but over time it gets gunked up or the screen corrodes. The fix is dead simple and costs almost nothing. This is a repair that requires no special skill and no real tools. You don't need to shut off the water, you won't get wet, and you won't break anything. Most people should have a working faucet again in the time it takes to boil water for coffee.

1. Inspect the aerator and determine removal method. Look at the tip of your faucet spout. The aerator is the small part that sticks out or sits flush at the very end. Check if there's a small notch, slot, or ridge around its edge. Some aerators unscrew by hand; others require a small tool or wrench to grip and turn. If you see a flat screwdriver slot or notches, you'll need a tool. If it looks smooth and slightly ridged, try hand-tightening first.
2. Grip and unscrew the aerator by hand or with a wrench. If it unscrew by hand, grip the aerator gently between thumb and forefinger and turn counterclockwise. Most come off with light pressure. If it won't budge, wrap a rag or cloth around it for better grip and try again. If you still can't turn it, use an adjustable wrench or pliers on the ridged edge—apply steady turning force, not sudden twisting. Turn slowly and listen for the threads to release.
3. Catch and inspect the internal parts. As the aerator comes loose, small parts may fall out or come apart. You'll see a screen or mesh, sometimes a plastic diverter, and a rubber washer. Lay these parts on a clean paper towel in order so you can reassemble them correctly. The order matters. Take a photo if you're unsure.
4. Clean or replace the internal parts. If you're keeping the old aerator, scrub the screen and parts under running water with an old toothbrush to remove sediment and mineral buildup. For stubborn deposits, soak in white vinegar. If the screen is torn, the diverter is cracked, or the washer is hardened, replace the whole aerator with a new one of the same size and thread type. Most aerators are universal and cost $3–$8.
5. Reassemble the parts in reverse order. If you took apart the internal pieces, put them back together in the reverse order you removed them. The washer usually goes in first, then the screen, then any diverter plate. Stack them neatly in your hand before starting to thread. This prevents jamming when you reattach.
6. Thread the aerator back onto the spout. Align the aerator with the spout opening and thread it back on by hand, turning clockwise. Don't force it. If it doesn't thread easily, remove it and check that the internal parts are stacked correctly and not twisted. Once hand-tight, use the wrench again to snug it firmly, but don't overtighten—you'll strip the threads or crack the aerator.
7. Test the water flow and check for leaks. Turn the faucet on and let water run for 10 seconds. Check that the stream is smooth and even, not spraying or splitting. Look underneath the spout at the joint where the aerator meets the faucet. If water drips from that seam, remove the aerator and check if the rubber washer is seated correctly. Reinstall if needed. If it still leaks, the washer may be worn—replace with a new aerator.