By Kerry Hale

How To Clean And Descale Your Shower Head

  • Thursday 3 October 2024
  • 4 minute read

Since your shower head frequently comes into contact with hard water, the build-up of limescale is inevitable. Over time, this can cause blockages and affect water flow. Cleaning and descaling a shower head can help address these issues and keep your shower free from bacteria or mould.

It’s easier than you might think to descale shower heads, by following the simple steps outlined in this guide.

How to clean shower heads

Not all shower heads are removable, so descaling a fixed shower head can be tricky. But with the right products, you can get rid of limescale build-up effectively.   

If you have a dual shower, you might want to clean both shower heads at the same time to keep on top of limescale, even if you use one more regularly than the other. Discover why two shower heads are better than one here. 


Is your shower persistently dripping after switching it off? Whilst you clean and descale, you can also fix your dripping shower head. 

How do you clean a shower head with vinegar?

Before you buy expensive descaling products, try white vinegar. Vinegar is the number one natural cleaning product, making it an effective and affordable shower head cleaner. However, malt vinegar isn’t particularly effective and brown vinegar may stain, so white distilled vinegar is best.

How to clean a handheld shower head using vinegar

    Cleaning a handheld shower head is easier than a fixed shower head, as you can detach it from the hose and soak it. Some rainfall shower heads are detachable, so it’s worth checking before you start cleaning. Unscrew the shower head and follow these steps for effective results:

    1. Remove the shower head from the hose. Be careful not to lose the rubber washer when you do, as this stops water from leaking at the joint. 
    2. Put the shower head in a bucket or plastic container and cover it with white vinegar. 
    3. Leave it to soak in the vinegar for at least 30 minutes, preferably around an hour. Don’t leave brass shower heads in vinegar for longer than 30 minutes. 
    4. Take the shower head out of the vinegar and rinse it with water.
    5. Remove any remaining limescale with an old toothbrush, paying particular attention to the nozzle. 
    6. Rinse again with water and polish with a soft cloth. 
    7. Reattach the hose and turn on the shower to flush out any remaining limescale.

    How to clean and descale fixed shower heads

      Wondering how to clean a shower head without taking it off? Follow these steps to clean a fixed shower head thoroughly:

      1. Take a plastic bag that is big enough to fit over your shower head and half-fill it with vinegar. 
      2. Place it over the head until it is completely submerged in the vinegar, using string or an elastic band to tie it in place. 
      3. Leave for at least 30 minutes, preferably around an hour. If you have a brass shower head, don’t leave it for any longer than 30 minutes. 
      4. Turn on the shower to flush out any deposits left inside the shower head.
      5. Repeat the process if necessary until all the limescale has gone. 


      These steps can also be followed for fixed rainfall and deluge shower heads. Learn more about the different types of shower heads and styles to find the best option for your bathroom.

      How often should you descale a shower head?

        Descale your shower head around once a month to remove limescale and bacteria. If left untreated, limescale can cause blockages and lower water pressure. You might want to clean your bathroom and descale your shower head more frequently if you live in an area with hard water.

        The best way to clean a shower head

        Although vinegar can be a highly effective way to clean your shower head, stubborn limescale might require something more potent. If you’ve tried this method and are unsure how to remove limescale from shower heads with a large build-up, specialist limescale cleaners are relatively easy to find in supermarkets. Always take care when using these products. Wear gloves and don’t spray products overhead in case you get chemicals in your eyes.

         

        When it comes to limescale, prevention is often better than cure. The Mira Logic four-spray shower head is designed with rub-clean nozzles on the spray face for easy cleaning and limescale removal. Looking for a more affordable option? The Mira Beat four-spray shower head is a great choice, with the same easy-to-clean features.

        Wondering how to remove limescale from shower, bath or sink taps? Check out our guide for in-depth cleaning advice to keep your bathroom looking and functioning at its best.

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