Cleaning an aeration stone

[marton504]

I have a 2 micron stainless steel aeration stone and I cleaned it with PBW. I think the stone is clogged now. What is recommended for cleaning the stone and is there any way to save my aeration stone?

Thanks,
Marty

[6thstreetbrewer]

I always boil mine for about 10 min prior to use and after I boil it again. Never had a clogging issue.

[BayouBrew]

Be sure to avoid touching the cylider part (the part that has the small holes) with your hands. The oils from your skin will clog the pores.

[Brandt]

+1 to boiling. I had the same problem and was given the boiling advice. Now it works perfectly every time. However, I only boil after every other use.

[Charlie]

I have a 2 micron stainless steel aeration stone and I cleaned it with PBW. I think the stone is clogged now.

Oops! I've been out of the loop for a while. Is this PBW?

P.B.W. is a buffered alkaline detergent that has been proven to be more than an
effective substitute for caustic soda cleaners. Because of its unique formulation of
buffers and mild alkalis, it is safe on skin as well as soft metals such as stainless steel,
aluminum, and on plastics. P.B.W. uses active oxygen to penetrate carbon or protein
soils and is not effected by hard water. The oxygen also helps in reducing B.O.D. and
C.O.D. in wastewater, which is an added environmental benefit.

If that's it (an alkaline detergent) try acid to clean it. I'd start off with white vinegar. Pump the solution through it in both directions. If that doesn't work try 6M nitric. Stainless loves nitric. Nitric "passivates" (removes the iron from the surface of) stainless. Just be careful with it cause it'll eat your socks.

I'd avoid any detergent on a porous surface because of the chance of occluded residue.

Charlie