Good tips, vinegar usually does the trick. But if you're still getting weird sprays, also double-check the threads where it screws in—sometimes old plumber's tape gets gunky or worn out... quick re-wrap can fix things right up.
Vinegar and plumber's tape are usually my go-to fixes too, but sometimes the issue is actually inside the showerhead itself. Had a similar problem last year—tried everything, even replaced the tape twice, but still got those annoying side sprays. Finally took the whole thing apart and found a tiny rubber washer inside had cracked and shifted out of place. Replaced that little washer (cost me like 50 cents at the hardware store), and boom, problem solved.
Have you checked inside your showerhead yet? If it's older, those internal washers or seals can dry out and crack over time, causing weird spray patterns. Might be worth a quick look before you spend money on a whole new head.
"Finally took the whole thing apart and found a tiny rubber washer inside had cracked and shifted out of place."
Yep, been there myself—those sneaky little washers are always causing trouble. Another thing I've noticed is mineral buildup inside the showerhead can redirect water in weird directions too... vinegar usually helps, but sometimes you gotta poke out those clogged holes manually. Fun times, right?
Had the same issue a while back, but in my case it wasn't the washer—it was actually the threading on the showerhead itself. Turns out it had worn down just enough to let water sneak through and spray everywhere but down. Tried plumber's tape at first, but eventually just had to replace the whole head. Sometimes it's worth biting the bullet instead of fighting with it over and over... plumbing can be weirdly stubborn like that.
Had plenty of showerheads go rogue on me over the years, and yeah, threads can definitely be the culprit, but honestly, plumber's tape usually does the trick if you layer it right. Had one customer who was convinced his threads were shot—turns out he just wasn't wrapping the tape tight enough or in the right direction. Gotta wrap clockwise and make sure it's snug; otherwise, it'll bunch up and leak anyway.
Another thing folks overlook is mineral buildup inside the head itself. Had one that sprayed everywhere but down, and after soaking it overnight in vinegar, it straightened right out. Saved me from having to replace a perfectly good fixture. Plumbing can be stubborn, sure, but sometimes a little patience and troubleshooting beats shelling out for new parts.
