Cleaning the shower head is a maintenance chore that we sometimes completely forget about, but it is fundamental to guarantee the right flow of water through the holes and keep our bathrooms hygienic. The minerals in water (lime, oxide, etc.) and other residues build up over time and can block the holes in the shower head, meaning less water pressure and the possible growth of bacteria. We are going to teach you an easy, effective way to clean the shower head in a few simple steps.
Required materials:
Baking powder (optional)
An old toothbrush or other small brush.
A plastic bag or large receptacle.
An elastic band or piece of string.
A soft cleaning cloth or old towel.
Warm water
How to disassemble the shower head to clean it
The first step is to remove the shower head from the shower fitting or hose.
Most modern shower heads can be easily unscrewed by hand, but if it is very tight, we can use an adjustable spanner.
Warning: put a cloth between the spanner and the shower head to avoid scratching it.
How to clean lime scale from the shower head
After removing the shower head, use an old toothbrush or other small brush to scrub the surface of the holes where the water comes out. This will get rid of any dirt that has built up on or around them, such as soap or mould. Pay special attention to any areas where you see mineral deposits.
White vinegar dissolves mineral deposits and is also a disinfectant. Fill a receptacle with enough white vinegar to completely submerge the shower head. Leave it to soak for at least 30 minutes, or all night if it is very blocked. If the shower head is made from delicate materials such as nickel, brass or bronze, reduce the time you leave it to soak to avoid damaging it.
How to clean the holes in the shower head
After soaking the shower head, take it out of the vinegar and use the toothbrush to brush away any remains that may still be on it. You can use a toothpick or a pin to gently clear the holes if the water sprays out in odd directions.
Rinse the shower head well with warm water to get rid of any vinegar and dissolved residue. It is important to make sure no vinegar is left behind, since this could damage the finish on some materials.
Dry the shower head with a soft cloth or towel. If you have previously disassembled the shower head, screw it back onto the shower pipe or hose, ensuring you do not overtighten it and damage the thread. It is a good idea to fit some plumber's tape on the thread to ensure a good seal.
To avoid minerals and dirt from building up in the shower head, we recommend cleaning it every 3 or 4 months. If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to clean it more often, since lime scale will build up quicker.
How to clean the shower head with baking powder
If the mineral deposits on your shower head are very stubborn, you can mix some vinegar and baking powder together for an effervescent reaction that will help remove the dirt.
Mix the baking powder with vinegar at a 2:1 proportion (two parts vinegar to one part baking powder).
This mixture will be particularly useful to clean the more stubborn stains and residue on the shower head and to make sure the holes are completely unblocked.
