If your shower is producing only a small amount of water, it might be necessary to cleanse the shower head. The water, even when sourced from a municipal system, carries minerals that accumulate over time and obstruct the openings in the shower head. And, if you live in an area with hard water or use well water, the problem can be even worse.
The installation of an effective shower filter can aid in minimizing mineral deposits and contaminants. However, when the openings or nozzles get obstructed, the shower head turns into a damp, warm environment, providing a conducive space for the growth of bacteria and mold. Gross! It’s time to learn how to clean your shower head as effectively as possible. Follow the steps below—and you may be tempted to trade in your relaxing bath for a soothing shower.
How Often to Clean a Shower Head
If you haven’t cleaned the shower head before or if you notice a decrease in water flow, it’s essential to clean it promptly. Establish a recurring reminder on your phone to thoroughly clean the shower head at least every other month, or more frequently if you reside in an area with hard water. Consistent cleaning will also aid in restricting the growth of mold and bacteria within the shower head.
What You’ll Need:
To Clean With Vinegar
- Distilled white vinegar or cleaning vinegar
- Heavy-duty plastic food storage bag
- Rubber band or twist ties
- Cleaning cloth
- Toothpick
- Baking soda
To Clean With Lemon Juice
- Old toothbrush
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Lemon juice
How to Clean a Showerhead With Vinegar
Vinegar is the preferred method for cleaning a shower head because its acidity naturally dissolves built-up limescale without the use of harsh chemicals.
Step 1: Fill Bag With Vinegar
Fill a plastic bag partway with distilled white vinegar. Be careful not to overfill the bag, as it could overflow when you submerge the shower head.
Step 2: Put the Bag Over Shower Head
Place the bag over the shower head until the entire fixture is immersed in the vinegar. If you need to adjust the vinegar level, do so now.
Step 3: Fasten With a Rubber Band
Secure the bag by using a rubber band or twist ties wound around the neck of the shower head. Carefully test how secure the bag is to make sure it won’t slip once you let go. (It’s also a good idea to close the shower door or curtain so if there is a spill, it will stay within the shower.)
Step 4: Soak for Several Hours
Allow the shower head to soak for several hours; for particularly soiled fixtures, consider leaving it overnight. If the shower head is made of brass, take it out of the vinegar after 30 minutes, as exceeding this duration may harm the finish. Skip this method for nickel-coated shower heads.
Step 5: Remove
Untie the bag and remove it from the shower head. Pour the vinegar down the shower drain (add some baking soda to help remove soap scum buildup in the drain).
Step 6: Run Hot Water
Run hot water through the shower head for a minute to flush out any mineral deposits stuck inside the fixture.
Step 7: Unclog Nozzles With Toothpick
Utilize the tip of a toothpick or paper clip to clear any clogged nozzles that may still be obstructed. If there is persistent buildup, scrub the fixture with an old toothbrush dipped in dry baking soda. Focus on the areas around the holes where water comes out. Turn the hot water back on to flush out even more residue. Repeat this process until you no longer see mineral deposits.
Step 8: Polish With Cloth
Polish the shower head with a soft, lint-free cloth for a finished look. Buff and dry it to remove water spots and help the shower head look like new.
If the shower head is removable, make cleaning even simpler by submerging the shower head in a bucket of distilled white vinegar. Follow the same cleaning steps after soaking and then reattach the fixture.
How to Clean a Shower Head With Lemon Juice Paste
If you lack distilled white vinegar, you can use a substitute by soaking the shower head in a mixture of lemon juice and water. Lemon juice contains acids that effectively dissolve mineral deposits. Follow the same soaking and cleaning instructions.
If you don’t want to wait for the shower head to soak, you can clean your shower head by using a paste made from lemon juice and baking soda or lemon juice and salt. Follow these steps.
Step 1: Scour With Toothbrush and DIY Cleaning Paste
In a cup or small bowl, moisten a few tablespoons of baking soda or salt with a squirt of some lemon juice. Mix until it forms a paste. Dip a toothbrush into the paste and scrub the show head with it.
Step 2: Run Hot Water
Let the hot water run through the shower head. If possible, take the shower head apart so you can scrub both the interior and exterior of the fixture with the toothbrush.
Step 3: Rinse
Rinse well, reassemble, and reattach the shower head.
You can also use a commercial shower head descaler if these natural methods aren’t working. Follow the label directions carefully.