Toothpaste is primarily designed for oral hygiene, but it also contains mild cleaning agents that can help remove stains and dirt from various household items—including showerheads.

Start by wetting the surface of the showerhead, then squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto it. Use a toothbrush to scrub gently but thoroughly, especially around areas with hard, stubborn stains. The fine abrasive particles in toothpaste help break down dirt and mineral deposits.

After scrubbing, turn on the water to rinse off all the remaining toothpaste and loosened residue. This method is simple, effective, and ideal for light to moderate buildup.

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2. Cleaning with White Vinegar

White vinegar is a common kitchen ingredient that contains natural acetic acid. This makes it excellent for dissolving mineral deposits, killing bacteria, and removing grime.

Step 1: Remove the showerhead (if possible)

Unscrewing the showerhead is usually very easy—just hold the head firmly and twist the connecting nut underneath. Once removed, place the showerhead in a plastic bag.

Step 2: Soak in vinegar

Pour enough white vinegar into the bag to fully submerge the showerhead. Make sure the front, where the nozzles are located, is completely covered. Tie the bag securely and let the showerhead soak for at least one hour. For heavy buildup, soaking overnight provides even better results.

Step 3: Clear the clogged holes

After soaking, use a thin needle or a small toothpick to gently poke into each tiny hole on the showerhead surface. Vinegar helps soften and dissolve the minerals, making them easier to push out. This step ensures that all stubborn clogs are fully removed.

Step 4: Rinse and reinstall

Finish by rinsing the showerhead under clean water, then reattach it to its original position. Turn on the water to check whether the flow has improved—it should feel noticeably stronger and more consistent.

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If you cannot remove the showerhead

You can still use the vinegar method without detaching the head. Simply fill a plastic bag with vinegar, wrap it around the showerhead so that the front is submerged, and secure it with a string or rubber band. Let it sit for at least one hour while the vinegar does its job.

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Combine both methods for best results

For severely clogged showerheads, soaking in vinegar first and then scrubbing with toothpaste and a toothbrush can greatly increase the cleaning effectiveness. Using a needle or toothpick afterward helps ensure every nozzle is cleared.

To maintain a clean showerhead and avoid future blockages, you should clean it regularly—preferably once every 1–2 months. This prevents mineral buildup, saves cleaning time later, and reduces the risk of bacteria or mold thriving in the wet environment.