Originally published on Tutomod.
Photo by Gustavo Fring on Pexels.
To clean a shower head, loosen mineral deposits before trying to scrub them away.
Updated August 11, 2026, after a fresh review, with updated visuals and links.
White crust around the nozzles is usually limescale from hard water. A short soak can restore the spray without replacing the fixture.
Practical tip: Wipe the nozzles once a week so mineral deposits do not have time to harden.What You Need
- White vinegar
- A plastic bag or bowl
- A rubber band or soft cloth
- A soft brush and clean water
Step 1: Inspect the Nozzles
Run the shower briefly and note which holes spray unevenly. Turn the water off and wipe loose scale from the outside.
Step 2: Soak the Fixture
Fill a bag or bowl with vinegar and position it around the shower head. Secure it without putting pressure on the pipe and leave it for a few hours.
Step 3: Rinse and Test
Remove the bag, brush the softened deposits, and run hot water through the fixture for several minutes. Test the spray and repeat only if needed.
Common mistake: Do not soak a delicate finish longer than the manufacturer recommends because vinegar can affect some coatings.What to Avoid
- Poking nozzles with metal: Sharp tools can damage rubber spray holes.
- Skipping the rinse: Remaining vinegar can smell and affect the finish.
- Ignoring the filter: Some fixtures have a small screen that also collects debris.
Final Thoughts
A gentle vinegar soak, brushing, and a thorough rinse can improve a slow shower head. Use shorter treatments on plated or specialty finishes.
