Yeah, you're probably onto something there. Honestly, straight vinegar usually works fine—I've done it plenty of times without issues.
Yeah, agreed on checking those nozzles. I had one showerhead that vinegar couldn't save—it looked fine but sprayed sideways no matter what. Turned out the rubber bits had hardened and cracked over time... ended up just replacing the whole thing.
Haha, been there with the sideways spray—feels like shower roulette every morning. Vinegar usually does the trick, but yeah, sometimes those rubber nozzles just give up the ghost. Had one tenant swear their showerhead was possessed... turned out it was just ancient and crusty inside. Replacing it was way easier than calling an exorcist, that's for sure. Glad you got yours sorted!
Totally agree—vinegar's usually my go-to, but sometimes it's just beyond saving. Couple things I've noticed over the years:
- If vinegar doesn't cut it, soaking overnight in CLR can sometimes revive even the crustiest showerheads.
- Those rubber nozzles degrade faster if your water's super hard. Installing a simple inline filter can help prolong their life.
- Honestly though, once it starts spraying sideways regularly, it's usually easier (and less frustrating) to just replace the whole thing. Learned that the hard way after too many mornings dodging rogue streams...
Good points there, especially about the inline filter—those things can really help. Couple more thoughts from my experience:
- CLR is solid advice, but if you're dealing with stubborn mineral buildup, sometimes dismantling the showerhead and manually scrubbing the nozzles with a toothbrush or small pick can do wonders.
- Agree on replacement being simpler in the long run. Once the rubber nozzles start cracking or deforming, you're basically fighting a losing battle.
Been there myself, nothing wakes you up faster than an unexpected faceful of cold water...
I feel that cold-water-in-the-face pain, haha. Had a similar issue last year—tried the CLR route first, but honestly, it barely made a dent. Ended up taking the whole thing apart and poking each nozzle with a sewing needle (tedious as heck, btw). Worked like a charm for a while, but eventually I caved and replaced it with one of those eco-friendly low-flow heads. Better spray pattern, less hassle, and bonus points for saving water...win-win.
