Clean a bathroom faucet aerator
Rinse out grit and loosen mineral buildup to restore a tidy, even stream.
Home · 15–30 min + soak · Easy
Before you start
Turn the faucet off before removal and cover the drain so small parts cannot fall in. Do not force a stuck aerator or pry at an unfamiliar outlet. Use only a cleaner approved for its parts and finish; never mix cleaners. This job does not require opening supply lines.
Tools and materials
- Soft toothbrush, small bowl, soft cloth, and approved cleaning solution
- Matching aerator key, only for a recessed aerator
Check the problem
Check the flow pattern
A spluttering or sideways stream, or reduced flow at this faucet on both hot and cold, may mean a clogged aerator. Trouble at several fixtures or on only one supply can have another cause; cleaning may not solve it.
Identify the removable part
An exposed aerator has a small collar at the spout tip. A recessed threaded insert needs the correct key. Find the faucet instructions if there is no clear collar or key fitting—do not grip the whole spout or assume an oval outlet unscrews.
Steps
Turn off the faucet and protect the drain
Close the handles and let any hot water cool. Cover the drain with a cloth and set a small bowl nearby for parts. Have the matching key ready if the aerator is recessed.
Unscrew the aerator gently
Turn an exposed collar by hand, or seat the matching key fully in a recessed threaded aerator. For a standard thread, turn counterclockwise when looking directly up at its face. Stop if it resists rather than crushing it with pliers.
Keep track of the parts
Photograph the aerator before separating any removable parts. Note where the washer sits, including one stuck to the spout. Keep a sealed insert intact; don't pry apart a cartridge that is not meant to open.
Rinse and brush away deposits
Rinse out loose grit. If scale remains, soak only the parts approved for your maker's recommended vinegar solution and time, then brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly. Replace cracked parts or a damaged washer with matching parts.
Reassemble and tighten gently
Return every part and the sealing washer to its original position. Start the threads straight by hand; if they bind, back off and realign. Hand-tighten an exposed collar, or use the matching key as instructed. Do not add thread tape.
Check the stream and the joint
Remove the drain cover. Run cold, then carefully warm water, checking for an even stream and leaks around the aerator. If the joint leaks, turn off the faucet and reseat the washer. Persistent poor flow or leakage needs further troubleshooting, not extra force.
Aerator joint stays dry and hot/cold streams are even without spraying sideways.
Tips
Use the specified soak
Manufacturers recommend different mixtures and times. Keep cleaning solution off finishes unless their care instructions permit it.
Keep the flow-control insert
Cleaning is not a reason to remove a restrictor or enlarge holes. If replacement is needed, match the thread, size, and specified flow.