Clean a removable faucet aerator gently.

If a sink faucet sprays sideways or its flow has slowed, the small screen at the tip may be holding grit or mineral deposits. Many aerators unscrew, while hidden “cache” styles need the correct key. Check your faucet manual first, protect the finish, and keep every tiny piece in order.

What you’ll need

• Faucet manual or model information
• Sink stopper or clean towel
• Aerator key if required
• Small bowl
• White vinegar
• Old soft toothbrush
• Soft cloth

Take it step by step

1. Close the drain or cover it with a towel so no small parts can fall into the pipe. Turn the faucet off.
2. Use your manual to identify the aerator. Remove it by hand or with the correct aerator key. Do not grip a finished faucet tip with bare pliers.
3. Take a quick photo of the parts before separating them. Place the aerator pieces in a bowl of white vinegar to loosen mineral deposits, following the maker’s recommended soaking time.
4. Brush the screen gently with a soft toothbrush, then rinse every piece with clean water. Replace any cracked washer or damaged screen rather than forcing it back together.
5. Reassemble the pieces in their original order and hand-tighten the aerator. Run cold water and check the spray pattern and the connection for leaks.

When to ask for help

Call for qualified help if the aerator will not release with the correct tool, the faucet body twists, water leaks from the spout joint, or the weak flow continues after cleaning. Do not open the faucet valve body for this project.