Soak a showerhead in white vinegar for 30 minutes to two hours, but only if its manufacturer confirms the finish is vinegar-compatible. Use 30 minutes for light mineral build-up. Consider an overnight soak only for severe scale when the care instructions expressly allow prolonged vinegar contact.
Choose a safe soaking time
| Condition | Soaking time |
|---|---|
| Light mineral build-up | 30 minutes |
| Moderate build-up on a compatible finish | One to two hours, checking periodically |
| Severe scale | Check after two hours; leave overnight only if permitted by the manufacturer |
| Plated, painted, matte, decorative or coated finish | Avoid vinegar unless approved; if approved, start with brief contact of no more than 30 minutes |
| Unknown finish | Do not soak until you have checked the care instructions |
Vinegar may dull, discolour or damage some finishes, including certain brass, nickel and gold surfaces. Manufacturer care instructions override these general times. Repeating a short treatment is safer than extending the soak without approval.
After soaking
Rinse the showerhead thoroughly with clean water, then run the shower briefly to flush away loosened deposits. Gently rub flexible nozzles and remove residue with a soft cloth or toothbrush. Do not use metal tools, wire brushes or abrasive pads.
If the shower still has weak flow after cleaning, check whether the problem affects only this fixture, all hot outlets or both hot and cold water. Do not remove flow restrictors or dismantle concealed valves.
If scale remains, repeat a short soak only when the finish is compatible. Stop immediately if the surface becomes dull, changes colour or starts lifting.
Never mix vinegar with bleach or other cleaners. Vinegar and chlorine bleach can release toxic chlorine gas. If they are accidentally mixed, leave the area, avoid the fumes and call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. Call 000 for breathing difficulty or another medical emergency.
If the showerhead still drips or cleaning does not restore normal flow, our Sydney water-pressure plumbers can determine whether the problem is the showerhead, valve or wider supply.