Spray bottles can have different names depending on their top mechanism and how they spread liquids and cleaners. One name for them is atomizers, which is a small bottle that turns liquid into a very fine mist. They can also be called trigger sprayers, which are bottles with hand-operated levers that are common for all-purpose cleaners and gardening. A pump sprayer is a container that uses a top push-button pump rather than a front trigger. Continuous mist sprayersare bottles that provide a prolonged spray with a single press, similar to some air fresheners.

A spray bottle works by using a hand-powered positive displacement pump that draws liquid from the bottle. When the trigger is pressed, it pressurizes the liquid through one-way valves and forces it through a fine nozzle. Spray bottles can be found in cleaning supplies like all-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, bathroom cleaners and floor cleaners.

If you have a spray bottle that is not spraying, clear any clogs in the nozzle and prime the internal pump mechanism. To start, check if there’s a lock and whether the nozzle is in the ‘on’ position. To prime the internal pump, squeeze the trigger rapidly to clear trapped air and draw liquid. If there’s a clog, remove the sprayer and soak the nozzle in warm water and dish soap to dissolve any residue. You can also soak the nozzle in vinegar if there’s mineral buildup or poke the spray aperture with a needle or toothpick to clear the hole.

Spray bottles should be stored upright in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area that’s away from direct sunlight, heat sources and food preparation surfaces. Direct sunlight and extreme heat can cause pressure buildup or chemical degradation. Spray bottles should be placed in a supply closet, storage rack, safety cabinet or a storage container.