How to Clean or Replace Your Kitchen Faucet Aerator

AERATORS are the unsung heroes of your kitchen plumbing, acting as a filter for sediment and a regulator for water flow. Over time, calcium deposits and mineral buildup from hard water turn that smooth, steady stream into an erratic, sputtering mess. When your faucet starts spraying in multiple directions, the aerator is almost always the culprit, trapping grit before it makes it into your glass. Restoring your faucet is one of the most satisfying quick wins you can tackle. It takes minutes, costs next to nothing, and saves you from the frustration of dealing with low water pressure. Whether you are scrubbing away scale or dropping in a fresh insert, this simple maintenance keeps your kitchen hardware running like new without needing a plumber.

  1. Prevent Parts From Disappearing. Place a rag or a piece of tape over the drain opening to prevent tiny internal components from falling into the pipes. This is the single most important step for preventing a simple maintenance task from becoming a major plumbing disaster.
  2. Unscrew the Housing. Grip the aerator housing with adjustable pliers protected by a thick rag to prevent scratching the finish. Turn counter-clockwise until the housing threads off the faucet spout.
  3. Document Before Disassembling. Push the internal components out through the top of the housing. Take note of the sequence of the screen, the washer, and the flow restrictor so you can reassemble them in the correct order.
  4. Dissolve Mineral Buildup Fast. Scrub the screen and parts using a soft brush and white vinegar to dissolve calcium and lime deposits. If the mesh is heavily clogged or rusted, it is more efficient to simply toss it and install a new insert.
  5. Clear Loose Sediment Out. Briefly turn on your kitchen faucet while the aerator is off to flush out any loose sediment or grit lingering in the spout. Place a cup over the end of the faucet to catch the spray and avoid making a mess.
  6. Reassemble and Test Flow. Reinsert the clean or new components into the housing, ensuring the rubber washer sits flat against the faucet opening to prevent leaks. Screw the housing back onto the faucet by hand, then snug it lightly with your pliers.