Shower heads are one of few places that people rarely think about when it comes to house cleaning. Justifiably, their positioning in the shower and constant contact with water deceives one into thinking that they never get dirty.
Surprisingly though, they easily accumulate buildup as a result of hard water mineral deposits and soap scum. Both of these components are difficult to clean and can result to clogging and shower head discoloration.
Dirty shower heads harbor bacteria that that increase vulnerability to an array of health challenges. The Healthline notes lung infection as one of such diseases.
How to know that Your Shower Head is Dirty
Once your shower head begins to change its spraying pattern, it is time to descale. Ideally, unusual spraying means that some pores are partially or completely clogged. You might also notice the water flowing in an extremely slow pace.
If you have a white shower head, you might notice discoloration and accumulation of brownish scum. The dirt is a sign that the head needs thorough cleaning.
How to Remove Shower Head
Before cleaning your shower head, the first step is to remove it from the hose (If you prefer not to, follow through because we still have got you covered).
The task can be as easy as napping fingers, or it can be sort of difficult depending on the condition of your shower.
Step 1: If your shower head is in good condition, turn it clockwise to remove by hands.
Step 2: if it gets stuck as a result of hard water deposits and rust, use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench to make the work easier. Alternatively, treat the tightened area with a rust or scale remover and wait until the head begins to turn easily.
How to Clean a Shower Head with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a basic cooking ingredient and a versatile natural cleaning agent. In addition to cleaning glass shower doors, kitchen sinks, clothes and almost everything else in the house, it removes accumulated calcium deposits from shower heads effectively.
Important Note: Do not use this method to clean a chrome shower head. Instead, use the baking soda method provided in this article
Method I: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Ideally, baking soda and vinegar come together in a chemical reaction that manifests in form of fuzzing bubbles. The resulting product acts as an excellent cleaning agent for clogged shower heads.
Tools and Supplies
- Baking Soda
- White distilled vinegar
- Polythene bag/ Ziploc bag
- Rubber band
Instructions
Step 1: Combine baking soda and vinegar in a clear polythene bag in the ratio of 1:3. Begin by placing baking soda in the bag and adding white vinegar slowly. You will observe a bubbling reaction.
Step 2: Dip your shower head into the mixture and submerge it completely.
Step 3: Use a rubber band to grip the polythene bag around the shower head handle (this step is fundamental if you are working with a shower head that is still attached to the hose pipe).
Step 4: Let soak for a few hours or overnight before removing from the solution
Step 5: Turn on the shower and let the water run for a minute to rinse thoroughly.
Method 2: How to clean a shower head with Baking Soda and Water
If your shower head is detachable and does not have a lot of mineral buildup, you can actually clean easily with baking soda and water.
Tools and Supplies
- Baking Soda
- Water
- Toothbrush
Instructions
Step 1: Combine baking soda and enough water to form a paste.
Step 2: Use a toothbrush to apply the paste all around the shower head while scrubbing gently. Focus on the pores and other areas where the scum accumulates.
Step 3: Let soak for at least 30 minutes and use the toothbrush to scrub again. Use a toothpick to clean badly clogged areas.
Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Cleaning A shower Head with Vinegar
If you do not have baking soda in the house, do not trouble yourself running to the shop. No matter how dirty your shower head is, vinegar is good enough for the job.
Tools and Supplies
- White Vinegar
- Polythene bag/ Ziploc Bag
- Rubber band
Instructions
Step 1: Pour enough vinegar into a polythene bag and submerge your shower head into the solution completely.
Step 2: Fasten the polythene bag around the shower arm with a rubber band and let the shower head soak overnight.
Step 3: Remove the shower head from the solution and turn on the shower. Let water run for about a minute to rinse off the vinegar.
