The Best Handheld Shower Head

Remove and Clean Method

Step 1: Detach the Showerhead

Most showerheads come in two basic styles - fixed and handheld - and the process of removing the showerhead is similar for most brands. To detach a fixed showerhead, which usually attaches to a shower arm or pipe that emerges from the shower wall, protect the fixture from scratches by wrapping a rag around the base of head, the nut connecting the head to the pipe and the pipe. Unscrew the showerhead by gripping the shower arm with a pipe wrench, grip the nut with adjustable pliers and turn the pliers counterclockwise.

For a handheld showerhead, remove it from the holder and wrap a rag around it. Grip the nut connecting the handle to the tubing with adjustable pliers, grasp the handle and turn it counterclockwise to detach the head from the flexible tubing.

Step 2: Clean the Filter

Most showerheads have a filter and once you've detached the showerhead, remove the filter with needle-nose pliers. The filter is typically located in the part of the fixture that attaches to the arm or tubing. Hold it under running water and use a toothbrush to dislodge any mineral deposits.

Step 3: Soak and Clean

Place the fixture in a small bucket and pour enough vinegar in the bucket to cover the top of the head -- make sure the holes or nozzles are submerged. Allow the showerhead to soak overnight. Remove it from the vinegar and gently rub around the holes or nozzles with an old toothbrush to loosen stubborn buildups. Gently poke a toothpick in each hole to break free any remaining mineral deposits. If your showerhead has flexible, rubber nozzles, gently massage them with your fingers to help dislodge the deposits inside the nozzles. Hold the fixture under running water for a thorough rinse.

Step 4: Reattach the Showerhead

Replace the filter and wrap pipe-thread tape around the threads of the shower arm or the flexible tubing, in a clockwise direction. Thread the showerhead onto the arm or tubing, and hand-tighten. Wrap a rag around the fixture and snug up the connection with your tools. Turn on the shower and allow the water to run through the showerhead to blast out any remaining minerals.

Tool-Free Cleaning Method

Step 1: Soak the Fixture

Pour vinegar into a small plastic bag until it is about three-quarters full and slip the bag over the showerhead. Completely submerge the holes or nozzles, and secure the bag to the shower arm with a zip tie or strong rubber band. If you have a handheld fixture, remove the showerhead from the holder and allow it to hang upside down with the head submerged in the vinegar-filled bag. Soak the fixture overnight.

Step 2: Clean and Rinse

Remove the bag from the showerhead. Rub around the holes or nozzles with an old toothbrush to remove any remaining mineral buildup. Gently poke a toothpick in each hole or nozzle and, if your showerhead has flexible rubber nozzles, gently massage them with your fingers, to help dislodge the deposits inside the nozzles. Run water through the showerhead for a thorough rinse.