Rub off any hard water sediments from faucet fixtures with the scouring pad and clean with a soft cloth. If the valve seat is corroded, use a seat grinder to smooth it out, or replace it if necessary.

Causes: Worn out valves, seats and gaskets are common culprits. "Turning faucets on and off over the years wears these parts out," Hogan says. A faucet valve cartridge can also be to blame.