How to Clean a Shower Head

Grab a bag

Pour a few ounces of vinegar (white or apple cider) into a plastic bag large enough to fit over your shower head.

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Tie the bag around the shower head

Tie the top of the bag around the top of the shower head. A zip tie will be fast and keep the bag around the shower head overnight; however, you will need a utility knife to break the zip tie. If you are concerned about damaging the finish of your shower head, use rubber bands instead. If you wish to leave the shower head in place, ensure the tie will hold the bag in place with the spouts submerged in vinegar overnight.

You can also just remove the shower head and soak it in vinegar on your bathroom countertop.

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Remove the bag

After allowing ample time for the vinegar to do its job, remove the bag and rinse the shower head thoroughly. I couldn’t believe how much gunk was floating in the bag when I removed it, so beware! It can get gross.

Use something pointy and slim like a tooth pick to pull out any remaining mineral build-up in the spray holes. Then rinse it off again with a sprayer or a pitcher of clean water.

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FAQ

What if the shower head is still clogged?

You might need some extra power to remove the mineral buildup. Remove the shower head and scrub with a toothbrush and baking soda to do this. The extra abrasive material will help break up the gunk. Then place it in a bowl of vinegar. It will bubble helping break up the build-up even more. Let this sit overnight and rinse.

Does vinegar affect a chrome shower head?

Yes, as a mild acid, it can affect the finish of any bathroom chrome fixture. Therefore, you should proceed with caution when using this method on chrome shower heads.

What can I soak my showerhead in besides vinegar?

If vinegar isn’t an option, use baking soda. Make a paste with baking soda and water, then place it onto the shower head. Let that sit for 30 minutes. Use an old toothbrush and give it a good scrub. Rinse and viola!