How to Clean a Shower Head with Vinegar

Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, secure it around the shower head with a rubber band, and let it soak overnight to dissolve mineral buildup and restore water flow.

1. Assemble Your Cleaning Arsenal. Get a plastic bag large enough to cover your shower head, white vinegar, a rubber band or zip tie, and an old toothbrush. White vinegar works best because its acidity breaks down mineral deposits without damaging most finishes.
2. Charge the Bag With Vinegar. Pour enough white vinegar into the plastic bag to completely submerge the shower head when attached. You'll need roughly 1-2 cups depending on your shower head size. The vinegar should cover all the spray holes and the entire face of the fixture.
3. Seal It Tight. Carefully pull the vinegar-filled bag up and around the shower head, making sure it's fully submerged. Use a rubber band or zip tie to secure the bag tightly around the neck of the shower head. The seal should be snug enough that vinegar won't leak out.
4. Let Chemistry Do the Work. Leave the vinegar bag attached for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. For heavily clogged shower heads with thick mineral buildup, you can extend this to 24 hours. The acid in the vinegar will dissolve calcium, lime, and other mineral deposits during this time.
5. Brush Away the Buildup. Carefully remove the bag and dispose of the used vinegar. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any remaining mineral deposits around the spray holes and fixture surface. Focus on areas where you can still see white or greenish buildup.
6. Restore Full Water Flow. Turn on the shower and run hot water for 2-3 minutes to flush out loosened debris and any remaining vinegar. This will also help you see if all spray holes are working properly. If some holes are still blocked, use a toothpick to gently clear them.