This content was originally published on OldHouseOnline.com and has been republished here as part of a merger between our two businesses. All copy is presented here as it originally appeared there.
When you think of cleaning, you probably think of vacuuming, dusting, and maybe even scrubbing the kitchen sink. But there’s one place most of us forget about – the shower head. Your showerhead may not look dirty, but it very likely is. Like everything else in our homes, this piece of hardware needs regular cleaning and care, too.
Thanks to the moist environment, bathtubs and showers can be hot spots for bacterial growth. This is why it’s important to regularly scrub the tiles and rinse out the drain. However, our shower nozzles often don’t get the same amount of love on bathroom cleaning day. These pieces of equipment can be tricky to disinfect, which is why we’ve put together a helpful guide on how to clean a showerhead.
Why Cleaning Your Shower Head is Necessary
Build-up
Like every cleaning tool, a showerhead will eventually develop a buildup of debris due to everyday use. This can include dirt, dust, dead skin, or any other particles that may be floating around in your shower. Buildup on the nozzle can diminish its performance, resulting in reduced water pressure.
Bacteria
Bacteria love damp places, which is why bathroom hygiene is so important. Bacteria like serratia marcescens can cause pink mold that will stain your shower. Dangerous organisms such as E. Coli, salmonella, and staphylococcus areus are also known to thrive in bathrooms and can live inside your shower head nozzle. If left untreated, these could lead to unhealthy irritations and infections.
Hygiene
Regularly cleaning your shower head isn’t just good for its health, but yours as well. Ensuring that you get a proper hygiene-friendly bathing experience is great for your overall well-being. Plus, cleaning the nozzle every month can put your mind at ease about any potential bacteria, helping you enjoy your soothing shower even more.
Required Supplies
- A cleaning cloth
- White vinegar
- A plastic bag
- A rubber band
- Mild soap or dishwashing liquid
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Step 1
Start by removing any excess dirt using a damp cloth with some mild soap or dishwashing liquid. Make sure that you clean around the base of the shower head and any other stubborn cracks or crevices.
Step 2
Fill up a plastic bag halfway with white vinegar and affix it to the shower head using a rubber band or something similar. The vinegar will help to soften any hard water deposits and dislodge any calcium build-up on the holes of the nozzle. Leave this on overnight for the best results.
Step 3
In the morning, take the bag off and rinse away any remaining residue with some warm water using a cloth or sponge. You can also use a toothbrush dipped in some dishwashing liquid or mild soap if needed. Make sure there are no traces of dirt left behind before proceeding further.
Step 4
Finally, flush out all of the remaining solutions from inside the shower head by running hot water through it for at least one minute. Inspect everything to make sure it is clean and in place. Repeat this step a few more times if necessary.
Additional Tips
Scrubbing Technique
Always scrub in an outward direction to avoid pushing dirt further into any crevices. Make sure to regularly wipe off your cloth or sponge while cleaning.
Appropriate Cleaners
If possible, try to avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Instead, stick to mild soaps and natural solutions like apple cider vinegar and baking soda. These usually get the job done just as effectively while being gentler on your skin and less harmful to the environment.
Cleaning Frequency
Follow up regular cleaning sessions with white vinegar rinses every two weeks. This will help keep your shower nozzle free from calcium buildup for longer periods of time. Be sure to rinse thoroughly afterward with hot water for optimal results.
Conclusion
We hope by now you understand why it’s essential to clean your shower head, and also have the necessary tools and knowledge to do so properly. Keep in mind that cleaning your showerhead is not a one-time thing; it needs to be done regularly to maintain functionality and hygiene. If you take the time to properly clean the area, you’ll be rewarded with a safe, healthy shower experience every time.
