How To Clean A Faucet Aerator Fixing Clogs And Slow Water

Masking tape keeps you from scratching the aerator with your tools. If you don’t see the aerator, then it’s hidden inside the end of the faucet. Push a faucet aerator key wrench into the end of the faucet and turn it to unscrew the aerator. Put a towel in the bottom of your sink or plug the drain so you don’t lose any pieces if they fall down. [2] X Research source

Snap a picture of the aerator as you take it apart so you can remember how to put it back together later on.

You can still use the faucet after you take the aerator off. Just avoid drinking the water until you finish cleaning the aerator since it could contain residue from your pipes.

If you can’t get the aerator off of the faucet, fill a plastic bag with vinegar. Put the end of the faucet inside the bag. Secure the bag to the faucet with a rubber band and let it sit for 20 minutes. If you don’t have vinegar, you can instead use a calcium, lime, and rust remover.

Hold the mesh screen up to a light and check for any dark spots that are still clogged with debris. Scrub the mesh a little more with your toothbrush before rinsing it again.

If the water doesn’t come out through the aerator, take it off and try reassembling it again.

Clean out the aerator once a month if you’re having work done on your plumbing or water line.