Why Faucet Aerators Should Be Cleaned Regularly

Faucet aerators may be small, but they have a huge impact on your faucet’s performance. Positioned at the tip of the spout, the aerator mixes air with water to deliver a smooth, splash-free flow while conserving water. Over time, though, this tiny component can accumulate mineral deposits, sediment, or even bacteria — all of which can reduce water pressure and affect water quality.

Regular cleaning of your faucet aerator is an easy yet essential maintenance step that keeps your faucet running efficiently and hygienically. In this article, we’ll explain why cleaning your aerator matters, how often you should do it, and the right way to keep it in great condition.

1. What a Faucet Aerator Does

The aerator is a small screen—usually made of metal or plastic—that screws onto the end of your faucet. Its job is to mix air into the water stream, helping create an even, consistent flow while reducing splashing and saving water.

High-quality faucets like those from WOWOW include precision-engineered aerators that optimize both performance and efficiency. They allow you to enjoy full, steady water pressure while reducing consumption — which means lower water bills without sacrificing comfort.

2. Why Aerators Get Dirty Over Time

Every time you use your faucet, water passes through the aerator’s fine mesh. If your home has hard water, it carries minerals like calcium and magnesium that can crystallize inside the aerator over time. Sediment, sand, and even tiny rust particles from your plumbing can also collect there, restricting water flow.

Additionally, because the aerator remains damp, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Over time, this can lead to unpleasant odors, discoloration, and even a slight change in water taste. Cleaning it periodically helps keep your water clean and your faucet working properly.

3. Signs Your Faucet Aerator Needs Cleaning

Most people don’t realize their aerator is clogged until water flow starts acting up. Here are some telltale signs that it’s time for a cleaning:

• Weak or uneven water flow: The most common sign of mineral buildup restricting the flow.
• Water spraying in odd directions: Debris in the mesh causes splashing or uneven streams.
• Whistling or sputtering sounds: Air trapped behind buildup can make noise as water forces through.
• Discolored or cloudy water: Indicates trapped sediment or microbial growth inside the aerator.

If you notice any of these issues, cleaning your aerator can usually restore smooth, steady water flow in just a few minutes.

4. Benefits of Cleaning Faucet Aerators Regularly

Cleaning your faucet aerator might seem like a small task, but it provides big benefits. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:

• Restores Water Pressure: Removing mineral deposits allows water to flow freely and evenly again.
• Improves Water Quality: A clean aerator eliminates bacteria and sediment that can affect taste and safety.
• Reduces Water Waste: A properly functioning aerator helps maintain efficiency, using less water for the same pressure.
• Extends Faucet Lifespan: Regular maintenance prevents internal damage and corrosion inside the spout.
• Maintains Hygiene: Clean aerators help keep your kitchen and bathroom water fresh and safe.

WOWOW faucets are designed for easy maintenance, featuring removable aerators that make cleaning and replacement simple. Regular care ensures your faucet performs like new for years to come.

5. How Often Should You Clean Your Faucet Aerator?

For most homes, cleaning the aerator every three to six months is enough to maintain performance. If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to clean it more often — about every two months.

It’s also wise to clean aerators after plumbing work or water line maintenance. When pipes are disturbed, sediment can travel through your plumbing system and get trapped in the aerator’s screen.

6. How to Clean a Faucet Aerator (Step-by-Step)

You can easily clean your faucet aerator with a few simple tools and household items. Here’s how:

1. Remove the aerator: Unscrew it from the end of the faucet. You can usually do this by hand, but use a cloth and pliers if it’s stuck to avoid scratching the finish.
2. Disassemble the parts: Separate the screen, washer, and housing carefully so you can clean each piece thoroughly.
3. Soak in vinegar: Place the components in a bowl of white vinegar for about 30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits.
4. Scrub gently: Use a small brush or toothbrush to remove remaining residue. Be careful not to bend or tear the mesh.
5. Rinse and reassemble: Rinse all parts with clean water, reassemble the aerator, and screw it back onto the faucet.

After cleaning, you’ll notice smoother flow, reduced splashing, and a more efficient faucet overall — proof that a little maintenance goes a long way.

7. When to Replace the Aerator Instead

If the aerator is corroded, cracked, or doesn’t fit tightly anymore, cleaning may not be enough. Replacing it is inexpensive and easy. WOWOW offers replacement aerators that fit most faucet models and ensure consistent performance and water savings.

Replacing a worn aerator helps restore the faucet’s efficiency, prevents leaks, and keeps your water fresh and steady — all for just a few dollars.

8. The WOWOW Advantage

Every WOWOW faucet is built with precision, durability, and easy maintenance in mind. Their aerators feature anti-clogging designs and advanced materials that resist hard water buildup. Whether it’s your kitchen sink or bathroom faucet, WOWOW ensures a consistent, efficient water flow that’s easy to maintain.

With WOWOW, you don’t just get a stylish fixture — you get thoughtful engineering that simplifies cleaning, conserves water, and delivers reliable performance for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your faucet aerator regularly is a simple yet powerful way to maintain your faucet’s performance, water efficiency, and hygiene. It prevents clogs, improves water quality, and extends the life of your faucet — all with minimal effort and zero special tools.

Make it a habit to check your aerator a few times a year, especially if you notice weak water pressure or uneven flow. And if you want a faucet designed for long-lasting performance and easy care, consider upgrading to WOWOW. With sleek designs, superior engineering, and user-friendly maintenance, WOWOW faucets make every drop count.