If the flow from your kitchen or bathroom faucet isn’t what it used to be, the aerator is probably plugged. That’s perfectly normal. An aerator can clog slowly due to mineral buildup or instantly after plumbing work loosens debris inside pipes. Either way, the solution is to clean it out. If scrubbing with a toothbrush and rinsing won’t remove tough mineral buildup, soak the aerator parts in vinegar.
1. Unscrew the aerator
Wrap duct or electrical tape around pliers to avoid scratching the aerator. You may need a small screwdriver or knife to pry apart the components inside the aerator. Close the drain stopper so small parts can’t fall down the drain.
2. This is critical!
If you forget how the parts fit together, reassembly will drive you crazy. So lay out the parts in exactly the order they came apart. As you clean each part, don’t forget which side faces up.
Mineral buildup can gradually turn a powerful shower into a weak trickle. The buildup may be visible around the jet holes or invisible inside the head. Either way, the solution is simple, and you don’t even have to remove the head. Just fill a freezer bag with a half-and-half mix of vinegar and water. Secure the bag with a rubber band or duct tape. Vinegar dissolves minerals, but it can also damage finishes with prolonged contact, so remove the bag every 15 minutes and check the flow.