How to Clean a Sprayer Head on a Kitchen Sink

Co-authored by Carolina Rodriguez

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Kitchen faucets can have two types of sprayers. Those that are attached to the main body of the faucet, and those that are located to one side of the faucet on the sink. Because both need to force the water through a series of small holes to produce the spray effect, they can quickly become clogged up with minerals and hard water deposits. When this happens, your sprayer may not work properly, or it may shoot the water out in odd angles, instead of straight down. If your sprayer is malfunctioning in this way, clean it to restore its function.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Examining the Sprayer Head

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Some sprayer heads come loose from the rest of the faucet or sink, while others are integral and cannot be removed. Both can be cleaned, but the method of cleaning may differ.

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Look at the front section of the sprayer head where the aerator is located to check if the sprayer head is all in one piece, or if it appears to be in two pieces, with one piece very close to the spray portion.
- If the sprayer head is in two pieces, it more than likely comes apart.
- If it is in one piece, it will need to be cleaned intact.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Cleaning a Two-Piece Sprayer Head

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Two-piece sprayer heads can be much faster to clean than one-piece sprayer heads because you can access all sides of the aerator when you take the piece apart.

Hold the back section in your non-dominant hand and the front section, near the aerator, with your other hand.
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The mineral deposits may appear whitish in color; the aerator is clean when no white crust is left.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Cleaning a One-Piece Sprayer Head

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Even if your faucet does not come apart at the head, it can still be cleaned if it has begun to malfunction.

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Leave it in place for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the solution time to dissolve the deposits inside and outside of the sprayer head.

Expert Q&A

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Question

How do I use vinegar when cleaning a sprayer head?

Carolina Rodriguez
Cleaning Specialist
Carolina Rodriguez is a Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of Ecoverde Cleaning, based in the Washington, DC metro area. Ecoverde was born out of a desire to provide an eco-friendly cleaning option that competes with many traditional cleaning companies in the Washington, DC metro area. Through competitive pricing, attractive service plans, and friendly customer service. Ecoverde has built a strong residential and commercial customer base serving DC, Maryland, and Virginia, and has been named the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Washington DC. Carolina and her team specialize in residential and commercial cleaning services and use Green Seal Certified products. The team's cleaning technicians go through an extensive training process, learning about specific products, real-time cross-contamination, and how to use appropriate equipment for specific services. They also provide free cleanings to cancer patients through a non-profit organization, Cleaning For a Reason.

Carolina Rodriguez

Cleaning Specialist

Expert Answer

You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Start by mixing equal parts of baking soda and vinegar in a small bowl or container. Then, detach the sprayer head from the kitchen faucet. Submerge the sprayer head in the baking soda and vinegar solution, ensuring it is fully covered. Let it soak for about 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the mixture to loosen any buildup or debris. After soaking, use an old toothbrush or scrubbing brush to gently scrub the sprayer head, focusing on areas with stubborn deposits. The combination of baking soda and vinegar works to break down grime and mineral deposits effectively. Once you've thoroughly scrubbed the sprayer head, rinse it under warm water to remove any remaining residue. Ensure all the baking soda and vinegar mixtures are completely washed away. Finally, reattach the clean sprayer head to the kitchen faucet and test it to ensure proper functioning. This method leaves your kitchen sprayer head clean and free from buildup, helping to maintain its performance.

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Question

What is a good mineral deposit cleaner?

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Community Answer

The simplest and safest cleaner for hard water deposits is simply to soak in white household vinegar. If the faucet end isn't on a hose or doesn't easily disconnect, you can soak it by putting a little vinegar in a plastic bag and using a rubber band to hold it over the end of the sprayer or faucet. Leave it for awhile, and then brush it with an old toothbrush to dislodge the gunk.

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Tips

White vinegar can be an excellent cleaner for mild mineral deposits. Clean your sprayer head on a regular basis with it to help prevent major build up.

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Warnings

Mineral deposit cleaners can be strong. Wear gloves and always dilute according to the manufacturer's instructions when using it to prevent injury.

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