I’m a cleaning expert and you should be scrubbing forgotten bathroom spot more – it’s a germ bath
WHEN it comes to cleaning the bathroom, most people understandably focus on scrubbing the toilet to rid it of germs and dirt.
The floor, sink and shower tray are also important spots to target.
But experts have said that homeowners tend to forget about one area when they’re cleaning the bathroom – the showerhead.
That is until they start having problems like when water starts spraying in all directions or the pressure suddenly drops.
And now that spring cleaning season is upon us, cleaning pros have revealed just how often we should really be scrubbing it – and it’s more often than you think.
According to Plumbworld’s bathroom experts, the showerhead should be cleaned at least once a month.
If left longer, it becomes a hidden breeding ground for bacteria, limescale, and mould.
It could even cause issues with water pressure and plumbing, not to mention damage your health.
Your shower is supposed to keep you clean, but if you don’t maintain your showerhead, it could actually be doing the opposite
Plumbworld expert
A Plumbworld expert said: “Your shower is supposed to keep you clean.
“But if you don’t maintain your showerhead, it could actually be doing the opposite.
“Regular cleaning keeps bacteria and limescale at bay, ensuring better water pressure, a longer-lasting shower, and a healthier home.
“So, if you can’t remember the last time you cleaned your showerhead, it’s time to take action — before your next shower becomes a germ bath.”
If you’ve not cleaned your showerhead in a while – don’t panic!
The experts have shared their top tips on how to scrub your showerhead to get it squeaky clean.
They recommend using this quick and easy method once a month to stop bacteria building up and mould forming.
First, remove the showerhead if that is possible and then soak it in a bowl of white vinegar for 30 minutes.
For fixed showerheads, fill a plastic bag or disposable cleaning glove with vinegar, tie it around the showerhead, and leave it to soak.
For heavy build-up, leave it to soak overnight to make sure it’s all cleared.
Then take an old toothbrush and scrub the loosened limescale to make sure it’s all removed.
Finally, rinse it thoroughly to get rid of the mess and any lingering white vinegar and reattach it.
What happens if I don't clean my showerhead?
THE experts have also revealed what happens if you don't cleaning your showerhead for four weeks.
Week 1 – At this stage, you won’t notice any changes, but bacteria and mold spores are already taking hold in the damp environment.
A simple wipe with a damp cloth can prevent early build-up.
Week 2 – By now, your showerhead is the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. At this stage, you may notice a musty or stale smell or slightly reduced water pressure.
A quick soak in white vinegar can kill early bacteria and break down the first signs of limescale.
Week 3 – Build-up can lead to uneven water flow, with some nozzles getting blocked while others spray in odd directions. If left untreated, this also forces your shower to work harder, which can increase energy bills if you’re using a power or electric shower.
Soak the showerhead in a vinegar solution overnight and scrub with an old toothbrush to remove deposits.
Week 4 – After a month, your showerhead has turned into a bacterial hotspot and may contain mould and Legionella bacteria, and you may see black slime inside the nozzles.
A full deep clean is needed at this point.