We take our showers as a given and realize how vital they are to our daily lives and well-being when they stop working. If the water sprays in all directions instead of falling onto the head as it should, this is a sign that the shower head is dirty. It can lead to a frustrating shower, where shampoo, soap, or shower gel take longer than normal to wash our hair.
You don't have to give up on your shower head problem. It is likely that your showerhead has become clogged with limescale or mould. This can be fixed by cleaning it. This article will show you how to clean your showerhead safely and get the water flowing again.
What is limescale?
If you live in an area with hard water, you may have experienced limescale buildup in areas where there is running water.
Hard water is high in minerals and leaves behind calcium and magnesium deposits when it evaporates. You may have limescale buildup around your taps, tiles, plug holes, and shower heads.
Although limescale isn't dangerous, harmful or unhealthy, it can make your shower head look ugly. Limescale can cause problems in your showerhead by reducing water flow and making your experience less enjoyable.
Cleaning your shower head
Follow these cleaning steps if your shower water is not flowing as it should or if it has stopped altogether.
It is much easier to remove the handheld shower head from its hose than it is to wash it in the shower enclosure.
It is best to remove the shower head cover whenever possible. This will allow for a deeper, more thorough clean.
The limescale can be removed by soaking the showerhead in white vinegar for between 20 and 25 minutes. To really help the limescale deposit to move, you can leave the solution to sit overnight.
To scrub the showerhead, you can use an old toothbrush. This will help remove limescale from the nozzles. To remove stubborn dirt, insert a small piece or needle into each nozzle.
Last, screw the shower head together, attach the hose to the showerhead and turn on your shower to let the water flow freely.
You can spray vinegar on the showerhead if it is not removable. If this happens, use a toothbrush to remove limescale. You can also use white vinegar to make a solution, but it is more time-consuming. Secure the bag over the showerhead with a rubber band or something similar. Let it sit for a few hours and then scrub as usual.
Clean your shower hose
It's worth taking the time to clean the shower head. Although limescale buildup is unlikely to affect the flow of water, it will make your shower look nicer and more professional.
If your shower is set up properly, you can take your shower hose out and place it in a bowl.
The bowl should be filled with hot water and vinegar. Let it soak for at least two hours, or more if needed. You can leave the hose to soak overnight if it is very dirty.
Use a toothbrush to scrub your hose and then wipe it clean with a dishwashing sponge.
Reattach the hose and give it a good rinse. You should now have a cleaner, shinier shower hose.
If you have a shower tube, you should remove it and place it in the bathtub. Continue as before, covering with vinegar and hot water.