I hear you on the old-school metal ones—they really do seem to outlast the “eco” models, at least in my experience. I’ve tried the toothpick trick, and it works... for a while, until the build-up comes back. Sometimes I just soak the whole thing in vinegar overnight if I’m feeling patient. Ever get one where no amount of poking or soaking helps and you just have to give up? Makes me wonder if it’s hard water doing us in or just cheap parts these days.
I’ve definitely run into those stubborn showerheads that just refuse to cooperate, no matter how much vinegar or poking you throw at them. Here’s my go-to process when things get desperate: I unscrew the head, take it apart (careful with the little rubber bits), and use a tiny brush or even an old toothbrush to scrub every nook and cranny. If the build-up is really baked in, sometimes a little CLR (calcium/lime remover) does the trick—just don’t leave it soaking too long or it’ll eat the finish. Hard water’s a real menace, but honestly, some of these new plastic heads just don’t stand a chance... I’ve had one crack just from looking at it funny.
Hard water’s a real menace, but honestly, some of these new plastic heads just don’t stand a chance... I’ve had one crack just from looking at it funny.
That made me laugh—had the same thing happen with a “budget-friendly” showerhead I picked up last year. I tried the vinegar soak, poked at the holes, even used a toothpick, but it still sprayed sideways like a busted garden hose. Ended up replacing it with a cheap metal one from the hardware store. It wasn’t fancy, but at least it didn’t split in half after a couple months. Sometimes I wonder if the old-school metal ones are worth the extra few bucks just for peace of mind.
Sometimes I wonder if the old-school metal ones are worth the extra few bucks just for peace of mind.
Honestly, I’ve seen way fewer issues with the heavier metal ones over the years. Had a client with a plastic head that literally shot off mid-shower—luckily no one got hurt, but it made me rethink those “budget” options. Anyone ever try one of those filter attachments for hard water? Curious if they actually help or just another gimmick.
I get the appeal of metal, but honestly, I’ve seen some decent plastic ones hold up just fine if they’re installed right and not overtightened. As for those filter attachments, they do help with mineral buildup in hard water areas, but you’ve gotta change them regularly or they’re pointless. Not a miracle fix, but better than nothing if your water’s really rough.
