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When you buy a new bathroom shower, you’ll want it to keep working as good as new. There's nothing like stepping into an invigorating shower first thing in the morning. Then, a relaxing shower last thing at night finishes the day perfectly.
We all want to enjoy our showering experience, and one of the best ways to do this is to know how to clean a shower head properly. This task will allow you to keep your shower in tip-top shape long-term. At Bathroom Showroom, we show you a quick and easy way to achieve a clean shower head. With just a little time and effort, you can restore your shower to peak performance and enjoy a cleaner, more invigorating bathroom experience. This will help keep it working fabulously for many years to come.

Why Do Shower Heads Get So Clogged Up?

Most shower heads become clogged because of the water that regularly runs through them! Water leaves behind mineral deposits that become trapped in the shower head.
If not cleaned, these deposits then begin to build-up.
Over time, this build-up starts to block the nozzles of the shower head, making it necessary to clean your shower head regularly. It may well even start to form outside the shower head. You’ll notice it as your shower head starts to display chalky off-white unsightly deposits. This is the effect of limescale forming which makes the shower head grubby-looking.
Such blockage then begins to affect the performance of the shower. This is merely because the water is struggling to get through the clogged areas each time you use it. The spray patterns may also seem strange as the water works harder to get around the build-up.
Signs Your Shower Head Needs Cleaning:
  • Low water pressure
  • Uneven spray or water shooting in strange directions
  • Chalky white or green buildup around the nozzles
  • Dripping after use
These are all signs that it’s time to learn how to clean shower head nozzles and restore full water flow.

What Do I Clean My Shower Head With?

Fortunately, this is one bathroom job that can be completed using most of the stuff you already have in the home! All you will need for this task is:
  • A large strong plastic bag
  • A thick sturdy rubber band
  • A bucket (for removeable heads)
  • White vinegar (for dissolving limescale)
  • A soft cloth or sponge
  • A timer

How to Clean Your Shower Head: Step-by-Step Guide

As we all have different types of bathroom showers, there are two effective cleaning methods for shower heads. Here's how to clean a shower head the right way, no matter your setup.

1. How to Clean Your Shower Head Without Removing It

If your shower head can’t be removed from the wall, fear not. All you have to do is:
Steps:
  1. Take the plastic bag and fill it half-full with white vinegar.
  2. Insert the shower head into the bag.
  3. Secure the bag to the shower head with the rubber band, fully immersing the shower head in the liquid. 
  4. Set a timer for one hour to allow the solution to do its work.
  5. After an hour, remove the bag from the shower head, emptying the remainder of the solution down the drain.
  6. Gently wipe down your shower head with a soft cloth to remove any excess.
  7. Run the water through your shower head to wash out any deposits and white vinegar left inside.
  8. Your shower is now as good as new!
Bonus Tip: If buildup remains, gently scrub the nozzles with an old toothbrush.

2. Cleaning Your Shower Head by Removing It

If you’re able to remove your shower head from the wall, the cleaning process is a little different:
Steps:
  1. Fill a bucket with white vinegar.
  2. Submerge the shower head into the bucket.
  3. Set a timer for one hour to allow the solution to do its work.
  4. After an hour, remove the shower head from the bucket and empty the remainder of the solution down the drain.
  5. Gently wipe down your shower head with a soft cloth to remove any excess.
  6. Place the shower head back into its position.
  7. Run the water through your shower head to wash out any deposits and white vinegar left inside.
  8. Your shower is now as good as new!
Pro Tip: Use plumber’s tape when reattaching to prevent leaks and maintain a watertight seal.

Clean Your Shower Head Regularly for Fantastic Results

To keep your shower working properly and avoid buildup, we recommend you clean your shower head every 4–6 weeks. In hard water areas, a monthly clean is ideal. This regular maintenance also reduces bacteria growth in the humid internal components of the shower head.
When build-up in your shower head is left, over time it does become a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Because the inside of a shower head is humid, it will need flushing out regularly.

Clean Shower Head, Better Shower Experience

Knowing how to clean shower head buildup effectively ensures you’ll always enjoy full water pressure, an even spray, and a more hygienic shower. It’s a small task that makes a big difference in your daily routine and helps prolong the life of your bathroom fittings.

How to Clean a Shower Head FAQs

How often should I clean my shower head?

It’s recommended to clean your shower head at least once every 4 to 6 weeks. In areas with hard water, you may need to clean it monthly to prevent mineral build-up and maintain good water flow.

What is the best way to clean a shower head?

The best method depends on your shower type. For fixed heads, soak the head in a vinegar-filled bag for an hour. For removable heads, submerge it in a vinegar solution in a bowl or bucket. Both methods work well to dissolve limescale and mineral deposits.

Can I use something other than vinegar to clean my shower head?

White vinegar is a natural and effective solution for breaking down mineral build-up. However, if you prefer an alternative, you can use a descaling product designed for bathroom fixtures - just make sure it’s safe for your shower’s finish.

How do I clean a shower head without removing it?

To clean a shower head without removing it, fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, attach it to the head with a rubber band, and let it soak for one hour. Then remove the bag, wipe the head, and run hot water to flush out residue.

Will cleaning my shower head improve water pressure?

Yes, in many cases! A clogged shower head restricts water flow. Regular cleaning removes limescale and mineral build-up, helping to restore consistent water pressure and spray pattern.

Is it safe to clean a shower head with bleach?

Bleach is not recommended, as it can corrode metal and damage certain finishes. Stick to white vinegar or a mild descaling solution for safe, effective cleaning.

How do I remove tough limescale from a shower head?

If soaking in vinegar doesn’t remove all the limescale, use an old toothbrush to scrub the nozzles and outer surface gently. For stubborn areas, repeat the soak or use a baking soda paste with a soft cloth.

What if my shower head still sprays unevenly after cleaning?

Check if any nozzles are still blocked. Use a pin or toothbrush to clear debris manually. If problems persist, there may be internal damage or hard water scaling inside the pipe, which might require professional attention.
For more bathroom ideas and bathroom inspiration, take a look at our Rest and Relaxation blog section. With articles ranging from tackling limescale in the bathroom to cleaning your bathroom fast and effectively we provide a wealth of guidance to help you make the most of your bathroom.