How to Clean the Mesh Filter in Your Faucet—and Why You Should

Sometimes the little things make the biggest difference, and your faucet's mesh filter—otherwise known as an aerator—is one of those unsung heroes. This small appliance part keeps your water flowing as smoothly as you’d expect, and it can even help conserve energy. But when the aerator becomes clogged with debris and mineral deposits, it can affect your faucet’s water flow and cleanliness over time. 

To help keep things in working order, we chatted with two plumbers with years of first-hand experience. They walked us through exactly what aerators do, how to spot when they need attention, and the easiest ways to clean them so your water flows freely.

What Your Faucet's Mesh Filter Actually Does

Your faucet’s mesh filter, otherwise known as an aerator, is a little mesh screen fixed to the tip of your faucet. “Its primary purpose is to mix air with water to reduce water flow without making it feel like you're getting less pressure at the tap,” explains Brian White, commercial president of Accurate Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. “A well-functioning aerator also breaks the flow into a smoother, more consistent stream, reducing splashing and keeping your sink and the surrounding area dry.”

This combination of efficiency and control is what makes aerators so valuable. They save water and energy while giving homeowners the reliable water stream they expect. “That means less waste, lower utility costs, and a better overall experience at the fixture,” plumbing expert Devynn Thompson says. 

When to Clean Your Aerator

Cleaning your faucet’s aerator is a quick task that can make a big difference in water flow. Our experts generally recommend cleaning yours every three to six months, provided you don’t have hard water. “In areas with hard water, cleaning may need to happen more frequently due to faster mineral buildup,” White explains. Thompson suggests checking your aerator monthly (if you have hard water) to remove any pesky buildup. 

If your water isn't flowing from your faucet like usual, the likely culprit is a clogged aerator. “The biggest red flag is a noticeable drop in water flow,” Thompson says. “If a customer tells us, ‘This faucet used to be strong, and now it barely runs,’ the aerator is one of the first things we check.”

You might also notice your faucet’s water spraying sideways or coming out unevenly, which usually equates to a mineral deposit buildup or other debris from an older plumbing system. Over time, calcium, lime, sediment, and even biofilm can accumulate in the aerator—especially in homes with hard water—making routine cleaning essential for performance and to keep your water clean and clear. “It’s usually not something homeowners need to panic about, but it’s definitely not something you want sitting in your drinking or cooking water long-term,” Thompson says. “That’s why routine cleaning matters.”

How to Clean Your Aerator

You don’t need a ton of tools or specialized knowledge to get your current aerator squeaky clean. Most homeowners likely already have everything they need on hand, and the process is straightforward, even if you’ve never taken apart your faucet before. Here’s how to get it done. 

Materials Needed:

• Pliers or a wrench
• Cloth
• White vinegar
• Water
• Old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush
• Bowl

Instructions:

1. First, turn off the water supply.
2. Using cloth-wrapped pliers or a wrench, unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip. According to White, this is the best method to avoid scratching the finish.
3. Disassemble the aerator. Thompson says to pay close attention to how the washers and screens are stacked to make reassembly easier.
4. Rinse all the components with water.
5. Next, mix together a solution of vinegar and water in a bowl. Soak the components in the bowl for 15 to 30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits.
6. After soaking, use an old toothbrush or soft brush to remove any remaining debris. Rinse all components again with water.
7. Reassemble the pieces. “When you put it back together, don’t over-tighten it,” Thompson says. “Just snug is enough.”
8. Turn the water on to ensure adequate water flow.

If you notice your water’s flow is still uneven after cleaning, it might be time to replace your aerator. They’re under $10 at most home improvement stores, and, according to Thompson, they can make a "big difference in how your plumbing system performs day to day."