Aerator cleaning or replacement? Here’s what you need to know about the small mesh in your tap!

What is an aerator?

The aerator is located at the bottom of your tap and ensures that the water flows calmly and evenly. It mixes air with water (which saves water) and filters out small particles.

Over time, the aerator can become clogged with limescale or dirt. Then you may notice that:

• The stream flows unevenly
• The water bubbles or splashes
• There are drips around the spout

What type of aerator do you have?

There are roughly two variants:

With housing
You unscrew the entire outer part (the housing with the aerator inside). This can often be done by hand, or with a cloth and a wrench.

With aerator key
With this variant, the housing stays in place. Only the internal aerator is unscrewed using a special key.

Are you unsure? First try to unscrew the outside by hand. If it’s stuck or you don’t see any grip, it’s probably a key type.

How to clean the aerator

Step 1 – Remove the aerator
– With housing: unscrew the housing by hand (or with cloth and wrench)
– With key: use the correct aerator key, the housing stays in place

Step 2 – Clean the aerator
– Rinse under the tap
– Soak for 15 minutes in cleaning vinegar in case of limescale
– Optionally brush clean with an old toothbrush

Step 3 – Flush the tap
– Let both cold and hot water run for 1 minute without the aerator. This flushes out air and debris from the pipes.

Step 4 – Reattach the aerator
– Screw on hand-tight (not too tight)
– For key types: gently reattach using the key
– Check if the stream flows straight and evenly

Adjusting a directional aerator

Some aerators are adjustable. You can gently reposition the stream with your finger.

The inside part moves slightly and allows you to aim the stream — useful when it’s not flowing straight.

Maintenance tip

Clean the aerator regularly (every 2 to 3 months) to prevent limescale issues.

In case of persistent clogging or damage, it’s best to replace the aerator.