How to Clean Showerhead—Plus Why You Need To

While the importance of regular bathroom cleaning is undeniable, one often-overlooked fixture quietly harbors grime, germs, bacteria, and mineral buildup, such as limescale—the showerhead.

Over time, this hidden gunk can clog the showerhead nozzles, reduce water pressure, and even affect the quality of the water hitting your skin. Luckily, giving your showerhead a deep clean is easier than you think, and all you need is a reliable bathroom cleaner spray to do it. 

It's time to learn how to clean a showerhead effectively and understand why it's an essential part of your bathroom cleaning routine, enhancing the overall showering experience. 

Why should you clean your showerhead?

Cleaning your showerhead isn’t just about looks—it’s about enhancing its performance and enhancing overall bathroom hygiene. 

Over time, mineral deposits from hard water, soap scum, limescale, and even bacteria and mild can build up inside and around the nozzles. This not only reduces water pressure and causes uneven spraying but may also release harmful microbes into the mist you breathe in every day.

A clogged or dirty showerhead can also reduce the lifespan of the fixture, potentially leading to leaks or corrosion. Regular cleaning helps maintain consistent water flow, improves your overall shower experience, and ensures you’re not unknowingly bathing in bacteria-laced spray. 

Materials you’ll need

• Soft microfiber cloth or towel
• A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush
• A plastic bag and a rubber band (for soaking in place)
• Dettol Healthy Bathroom Power Cleaner Trigger Spray

Cleaning the showerhead

Here are the best ways to clean your showerhead.

Fixed shower head

1. Ensure the shower is off and take a close look at the nozzles and surrounding areas to identify any spots with buildup, discoloration, or blockages. This helps you focus your cleaning efforts where they’re needed most.
2. Apply the Dettol Healthy Bathroom Power Cleaner Trigger Spray directly onto the showerhead, coating the nozzles and surrounding metal or plastic parts. Be sure to cover the back and any crevices where limescale and grime typically accumulate. 
3. Let the spray sit for a few minutes (at least 5 minutes or more) to allow it to break down the grime, mineral buildup, limescale, stains, and kill 99.9% of germs.
4. After the cleaner has had time to work, gently scrub the showerhead’s surface using a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush. Focus on the nozzles and tight areas where deposits are stuck. Avoid abrasive pads, as they can scratch the finish of your showerhead, especially if it’s chrome or stainless steel.
5. Use a damp microfiber cloth or towel to wipe away the loosened grime and any remaining cleaner. Then, turn on the hot water for a minute to flush out internal residues and clear any loosened debris inside the nozzles. This step ensures your showerhead is clean inside and out.
6. Wipe the showerhead dry with a clean, soft cloth to prevent water spots or streaks. If it has a chrome or stainless steel finish, buff it gently for a polished shine. A dry surface also helps slow down future mineral buildup.

Removable shower head

1. Use a wrench to remove the showerhead from the pipe. Caution: Put a cloth between the wrench and metal to avoid scratches.
2. Fill the plastic bag with enough Dettol Healthy Bathroom Power Cleaner Trigger Spray to completely submerge the showerhead nozzle area. You can dilute it slightly with water (in a 50:50 ratio) if needed, especially for delicate finishes. 
3. Immerse the showerhead in the solution and allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes to remove mineral deposits. Avoid leaving it overnight to prevent damage to the metal or coating.
4. Carefully remove the bag without spilling the cleaner. Dispose of the used liquid safely. Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the nozzles and edges of the showerhead, removing any loosened debris or residue. This ensures a thorough clean.
5. Reattach the showerhead, turn on the shower at full pressure for a minute or two to flush out any remaining Dettol and debris. This also helps clear the internal nozzle channels. Ensure the area is well-ventilated during this step to avoid inhaling any chemical fumes.
6. Wipe down the showerhead with a soft, clean cloth to dry and polish it. Check the spray pattern to ensure all nozzles are flowing freely.