Tips and Tricks for Cleaning Your Shower Head

Why Cleaning Your Shower Head is Important

Cleaning your shower head isn't just about water pressure—it's about health, too. Mineral build-up creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Whether you live in an area with hard water, have well water, or use a high pressure shower head, regular cleaning will keep your shower head functioning optimally and more hygienic.

How Often Should You Clean Your Shower Head?

If it’s been a while since you've cleaned your shower head, it's likely time for a thorough scrub. Regular maintenance will depend on your water hardness:

• Hard Water Areas: Clean the shower head, including popular models like the rain shower head, at least once a month.
• Softer Water Areas: Every two months should suffice.

Setting phone reminders can help keep your cleaning schedule on track.

What You’ll Need for Cleaning

Gather these supplies before you start:

• White Vinegar
• Heavy-duty Plastic Bag
• Rubber Bands or Twist Ties
• Cleaning Cloth
• Toothpick or Paper Clip
• Baking Soda
• Lemon Juice (optional)

Cleaning a Shower Head with Vinegar

Using vinegar is a simple and effective method to tackle mineral deposits:

1. Prepare the Vinegar Solution: Fill a plastic bag halfway with distilled white vinegar.
2. Attach the Bag: Place the bag over the shower head, ensuring it is fully submerged. Secure it with a rubber band or twist ties.
3. Soak: Let the shower head soak for several hours. For materials like chrome or gold, limit the soaking to 30 minutes to avoid damage.
4. Rinse: Remove the bag and run hot water through the shower head to flush out minerals.
5. Unclog Nozzles: Use a toothpick or paper clip to clear any blocked nozzles.
6. Polish: Wipe down with a soft cloth for a sparkling finish.

Using Lemon Juice Paste for Cleaning

No vinegar? No problem. Lemon juice is a great alternative:

• Mix a Paste: Combine lemon juice and baking soda in a small bowl.
• Scrub: Dip an old toothbrush into the paste and scrub the shower head.
• Rinse: Run hot water through the shower head and wipe it down.

Cleaning the Shower Head Filter Screen

Blocked filter screens can also cause water pressure issues:

1. Remove the Shower Head: Unscrew it from the shower arm using a wrench (wrap the wrench with a cloth to avoid scratches).
2. Flush Debris: Run warm water through the shower head to clear loose debris.
3. Clean the Filter Screen: Using needle-nose pliers, remove the filter screen and soak it in vinegar. Scrub gently with a toothbrush.
4. Reassemble and Test: Reattach the shower head and run water to ensure everything is clear.

Regular maintenance of your filtered shower head helps maintain optimal water pressure and ensures you benefit from clean, filtered water.

Routine Tips for a Clean Shower Head

• Weekly Maintenance: Spray your shower head with a vinegar-water mix during your regular bathroom cleaning.
• Install a Water Filter: Consider using a shower filter to reduce mineral deposits.
• Keep it Dry: Use your bathroom fan to reduce humidity, which can exacerbate mineral buildup and mold growth.

At Flip, we believe in simple, practical solutions to everyday problems. Regular maintenance of your shower head, including considering a switch to a LED shower head, is an easy task that makes a big difference.