Let’s talk about how to clean a shower head. Maintaining a clean and functioning shower head is essential for a refreshing and hygienic shower experience.
Over time, mineral deposits, soap scum, and bacteria can build up and clog the tiny holes in your shower head. This leads to reduced water pressure and a less enjoyable shower experience.
Fortunately, cleaning your shower head is a straightforward task that can be accomplished using basic household items.
What Will You Need?
Materials needed to clean your shower head include:
- White Vinegar
- Plastic Bag
- Rubber Band
- Toothbrush
- Mild Dish Soap
- Rag or Sponge
Step 1: Remove the Shower Head
The first step in cleaning your shower head is to remove it from the shower arm. Most shower heads can be unscrewed by hand, but if it is difficult to remove, you can use a wrench to loosen it.
Be careful not to damage the shower arm or the shower head in the process.
Step 2: Soak the Shower Head in Vinegar
Once you have removed the shower head, place it in a plastic bag and pour enough white vinegar into the bag to fully submerge the shower head.
Secure the bag with a rubber band, making sure that the shower head is completely submerged in the vinegar. Leave the shower head to soak in the vinegar for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for heavily clogged shower heads.
The acidity in the vinegar will break down any mineral deposits and dissolve any soap scum that has accumulated on the shower head.
Step 3: Scrub the Shower Head
After the shower head has soaked in vinegar, remove it from the bag and rinse it with water to remove any remaining vinegar.
Use a toothbrush to scrub the shower head and remove any remaining mineral deposits or soap scum. Be sure to scrub both the outside and inside of the shower head.
Step 4: Clean the Shower Arm
While you have the shower head removed, take the opportunity to clean the shower arm as well. Use a rag or sponge soaked in mild dish soap to clean the shower arm thoroughly. Rinse with water and dry with a clean towel.
Step 5: Reattach the Shower Head
After you have cleaned the shower head and shower arm, reattach the shower head to the shower arm. Hand-tighten the shower head, being careful not to overtighten and damage the shower head or shower arm.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Shower Head
- Clean your shower head once a month to prevent mineral buildup and clogs.
- Use a water softener or filtration system to reduce mineral buildup in your shower.
- Replace your shower head if it is heavily corroded or damaged beyond repair.
- Regularly clean the shower walls and floor to prevent soap scum buildup that can transfer to the shower head.
If your shower head is heavily clogged with mineral deposits, you can try using a toothpick or needle to remove any buildup from the individual holes.
Be careful not to damage the shower head in the process, and make sure to rinse the shower head thoroughly afterward.
Another option is to use a descaling solution specifically designed for shower heads.
These solutions are formulated to dissolve mineral deposits and soap scum quickly and easily, and can be a good option for heavily clogged shower heads.
If you have a removable shower head, you can also try soaking it in a mixture of baking soda and water.
Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste, then apply the paste to the shower head and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Rinse the shower head thoroughly with water, and scrub with a toothbrush as needed.
Stick To A Shower Cleaning Schedule
Regardless of the cleaning method you choose, it’s important to maintain a regular cleaning schedule to keep your shower head in top condition.
By cleaning your shower head once a month, you can prevent mineral buildup and clogs and ensure a consistently refreshing shower experience.
In addition to regular cleaning, there are a few other steps you can take to maintain your shower head and extend its lifespan.
For example, if you live in an area with hard water, you may want to consider installing a water softener or filtration system to reduce mineral buildup in your shower.
You can also replace your shower head if it is heavily corroded or damaged beyond repair.
Overall, maintaining a clean and fully functioning shower head is essential for a refreshing and hygienic shower experience. By following these steps and implementing a regular cleaning schedule, you can keep your shower head in top condition and enjoy a clean and invigorating shower every time.