How to Clean a Clogged Shower Head

A clogged shower head can reduce your water flow and harm the visual appeal of your shower. If you would like to fix the issue and get your shower head working like new again, taking the right steps will let you reach your goal. With a little work and dedication, you will gain impressive results and know that you have made a smart decision.

Once unclogged, you will see a dramatic difference in the performance of your shower. A clean shower head will help you get the most from your time in the shower and enhance the look of your bathroom. The steps that you need to complete won’t take too long, and you will enjoy the benefits before you know it.

Turn Off the Water

If you are like others who have tried to clean a clogged shower head, you might think turning off the shower water is enough, but it’s not. The valve on your shower does not stop water from getting into the pipes, and you will make a mess if you don’t take the correct steps. Locating your main shut-off valve and closing it is a vital part of the process that you don’t want to overlook. It is likely located near your water meter, but it could be in your basement if you get your water from a private well or pump.

Remove Your Shower Head

With the water shut off, you are ready to remove the shower head so that you can clean it. You might be able to take it off with only your hands, but you will need a wrench if your shower head has been in place for a long period.

Worn or damaged parts can become visible as you remove it, and you should consider replacing them if you find any. If the shower head is stuck and the wrench is not helping, keep applying pressure for several seconds at a time, and you will make progress. Placing a towel on a wet shower head will take you far when it comes to getting enough leverage. Once you have taken it off, put all removable parts on a towel if you don’t want to lose them.

Use Vinegar and Hot Water

As the years pass, mildew and minerals will build up on your shower head and prevent it from working properly. The good news, however, is that vinegar and hot water will solve the problem and get your shower back to its best.

Pour two cups of water and three cups of vinegar into a pot, and heat it up on the stove for a few minutes. You can turn the heat off as soon as the solution starts to boil, and you can then insert the shower head, letting it sit for an hour. Next, you must remove the shower head from the solution and scrub it with a brush, and you will only need to replace the shower head and turn on the water.

Final Thoughts

Mildew and minerals can clog parts of your shower head and decrease its effectiveness unless you clean it on a regular basis. Although cleaning a shower head can take a little time, you will be happy when you get the job done and experience the benefits. Once you close the shut-off valve and remove the shower head, letting it soak in a solution of vinegar and water will remove the clog.

The final step is to put the shower head back and to open the shut-off valve, and the entire process does not need to take more than two hours. Rather than waiting until you spot red flags, consider cleaning your shower head every few months if you want to keep it in good shape for years to come.