When you notice a lack of water pressure or your shower head is starting to look dull, it's time for a clean. Luckily, cleaning your shower head is easier than you might think.

First, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a plastic bag and fix it over the shower head (soak overnight if possible). Next, manually dislodge any softened deposits.

• Vinegar

The acidity in vinegar helps break up mineral deposits and clogs. Using this natural cleaning solution along with some light scrubbing and a commercial descaler will make your shower head look like new again while increasing water flow and pressure.

To clean a shower head using vinegar, take a freezer bag that is large enough to fully submerge your fixture and fill it with undiluted white vinegar. Then, seal the bag securely around your shower head. Leave the shower head to soak in the vinegar for at least 30 minutes, but no more than two hours (or overnight if you want an even deeper clean).

Then, rinse the shower head thoroughly with clear water to remove all of the vinegar and mineral deposits. Scrub any stubborn deposits with a toothbrush or toothpicks before rinsing again. Repeat the process every one to three months to keep your shower head looking and working its best. To reduce the frequency of mineral buildup, consider installing a home water-softening system or use shower heads that are designed with anti-scale features.

• Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the most useful household cleaners. It is inexpensive and can be found in most homes. It is also eco-friendly, a greener alternative to bleach and other synthetic products. When combined with white vinegar, baking soda can dissolve hard water deposits and improve shower head flow.

Vinegar is acidic, and baking soda is naturally basic. Their extreme pH levels cause a chemical reaction that breaks down minerals and deposits on your shower head.

To use this cleaning hack, fill a large bowl or plastic bag with equal parts white vinegar and baking soda. Place your shower head in the solution, and cover it with a plastic bag so that all of its holes are immersed in the mixture. Let your shower head soak for 30 minutes (or up to an hour if you can). After soaking, use your toothbrush to scrub away any remaining build-up. Rinse well to remove any residue and test your shower head for water flow.

• Scrub Brush

If your shower head is clogged with hard water deposits and soap scum, it can reduce water flow and even make the water taste worse. Fortunately, a simple cleaning routine is enough to restore the proper water pressure and remove harmful bacteria. And, best of all, it can be done with household products you already have on hand.

Start by removing the shower head from its connecting hose. If you can’t unscrew it, try using a wrench or lockable pliers to loosen it. Then, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Pour this into a plastic bag that fits over the shower head, making sure all of the nozzles are fully submerged. Add a sachet of baking powder to the solution to further dissolve any remaining limescale and hard water buildup.

Secure the bag over the shower head and let it soak for a few hours. Then, use a scrub brush to remove any stubborn deposits or grime.

• Cotton Swabs

If you use a shower head with rubber nozzles, periodically wipe them down to prevent mineral deposits from clogging the openings. These deposits can cause low water flow, which will rob you of the soothing experience of a relaxing bath.

Aside from reducing mineral buildup, regularly cleaning your shower head can also help reduce bacterial growth. Clogged nozzles provide a dark, moist place for bacteria to grow, and these germs can then enter your body through the skin.

Wipe down bathroom surfaces and discard empty toiletries, papers and trash before you start to clean your shower head. A sturdy pair of gloves and safety glasses are essential for avoiding contact with harsh cleaners or abrasive materials, which can damage fiberglass, tile and stone surfaces. You can buy these items inexpensively at a home improvement store. A step stool can also come in handy for people with trouble reaching their shower heads.