how to Unclog your Shower Head

Hard water is water that is high in mineral content -- elements such as calcium and magnesium among others. Hard water isn't harmful to your health, but over time, its minerals can build up inside pipes and cause clogs. You can check to see how hard your water is by lathering your soap or shower gel -- the lower amount of bubbles and suds, the harder the water.

With hard water deposits in your shower head, a once-long, luxurious shower could be reduced to a drippy annoyance. You'll know that you have a clogged shower head because the shower stream will become less consistent or the water pressure will begin to decrease.

Luckily there are a few solutions to unclogging a shower head -- and none of them require a lick of plumbing knowledge!
Solution #1: Denture tablets
Yes, denture tablets! If someone in your home already has denture tabs laying around you don't even need a trip to the store to fix this one.

1. Remove your shower head if possible. You don't have to do this, but it will make things much easier. Most shower heads can be removed by hand without screws, but check to see if there are any screws first before removing. If you can't remove the shower head by simply turning it, use a pair of pliers or a pipe wrench.

2. Get a bucket and fill it with water about halfway full with warm water.

3. Drop 2-4 tablets into the water and wait a minute for them to effervesce.

4. Place the shower head into the water and soak for several hours.

5. Remove the shower head and use a small brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the shower holes clean.

6. Rinse with water and put your shower head back in place.

Unclog a showerhead with white vinegar. Photo: Ace Hardware
Solution #2: White vinegar
Once again, you probably won't need to venture out to the store for this one. Get a bucket or large bowl and remove your shower head as instructed previously. You can also use a larger plastic bag and fasten it with a rubber band at the top.

1. Fill your bucket or bag with the white vinegar; about a pint if possible.

2. Submerge your shower head and allow a few hours for soaking.

3. Remove the shower head and scrub with a toothbrush or small brush.

4. Rinse with water and re-attach.

That's it! And if your shower head is stubborn, there's no harm in trying both options together.

Now you can get back to making that shower the most enjoyable part of your day.