The things we use to clean ourselves with tend to get dirty rather quickly. Unfortunately, the showerheads in our home are no different; they need some TLC as well! So whether you’re a seasoned cleaning pro or a new homeowner wondering how to care for all your new things, we’re going to share with you our tips and tricks to get that shower head as clean as the day you bought it.
What To Avoid
This isn’t just a rule for showerhead cleaning, but a general rule for all cleaning tasks: never mix cleaning products. The different chemicals in products can create toxic gases if combined in the wrong way. Because of this, we always recommend going with the most natural solution possible. However, if you prefer your all-purpose cleaners, avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach and formic acid when cleaning a showerhead. These types of chemical cleaners could cause damage. Do not spray cleaners directly onto a showerhead either; always spray onto a cloth or sponge, then use that to wipe the cleaner onto the showerhead.
For tools, never use abrasive ones such as steel wool, steel brushes, or harsh sponges. These types of products are too abrasive and will likely scratch the finish of your showerhead. Instead, it’s always safer to use microfiber cloths, soft sponges, or even paper towels.
Cleaning Method #1
Most showerheads can be removed for cleaning, but there’s a simple and easy solution if you’re not comfortable with that.
Grab a plastic bag and fill it with vinegar and submerge the showerhead in the vinegar. Secure the plastic bag with a rubber band around the showerhead and leave it to sit for a few hours. Later, come back to remove the plastic bag and turn on the showerhead to rinse the vinegar away completely. You might also have to use a cup to pour water over and around the showerhead to ensure you’ve completely rinsed it off.
Many showerheads have small rubber nozzles where the water comes out. Water scale and build-up can cause these to not perform as well over time. You might notice this build-up when the water pressure isn’t as intense as it used to be. To reduce this build-up is to use a toothbrush and gently massage the nozzles while cleaning. You can do this when you first take the showerhead out of the vinegar before you rinse it off.
This method should rid the showerhead of any water spots, build-up, or soap scum. Pretty simple!
Cleaning Method #2
If you are comfortable removing the showerhead, you can do the same process as listed above without the headache of the rubber band. Remove the showerhead and place it in a bucket of vinegar and again, leave it to sit for a few hours. Then come back and take a soft toothbrush and scrub the showerhead. Be sure to pay special attention to those tiny nozzles. Again rinse the showerhead of vinegar thoroughly before returning it to its place.
Although it’s often an overlooked aspect of bathroom maintenance, you’ll be glad you took the time to care for and clean your showerhead. They aren’t always cheap to replace, and you’ll enjoy a much cleaner shower with lovely water pressure if you keep up with it.