Cleaning an aerator

Replacing an aerator is one of the easiest things you'll ever do. No need to call a plumber or handyperson or your uncle Bob. You don't even need to turn off the water supply. Just follow these easy steps.

1. Close the drain so you don't lose any parts.
2. Locate the aerator. That's the is the screw-in thingamabob at the end of the faucet spout.
3. Make sure both the spout and your hands are dry before trying to remove it with your fingers.
4. Unscrew the aerator in a clockwise direction. If it doesn't want to cooperate, then you will need to use adjustable pliers. Before you do that, wrap masking tape or a rubber band around the aerator so you don't leave teeth marks on your nice finish.
5. Once you get the aerator off, you will see it has a few small parts inside. These are the guts of your aerator. As you disassemble the aerator, note the order and orientation of the parts.
6. Rinse the pieces with water and brush off the debris. If you still have stubborn deposits sticking around, soak the parts in white vinegar for a few minutes and scrub with a toothbrush. Replace any cracked and broken parts, or hardened washers.
7. After de-gunking, reassemble the aerator. Using your fingers, screw it back onto the faucet. Test your work by turning on the water. If you get leaking around the threads, give the aerator a slight turn with the pliers, then remove the masking tape.