Does vinegar really unclog a shower head?

Yes. Acetic acid in vinegar dissolves calcium and mineral deposits that block the nozzle holes.

Can I use CLR instead of vinegar?

Yes, CLR works faster. Follow the product directions and don't leave it on plated fixtures too long.

Mineral deposits clogging the nozzle holes. Descaling with vinegar will restore full water pressure.

Potentially. Bacteria including mycobacterium can grow inside mineral deposits. Regular cleaning reduces this risk.

Household

A clean shower head makes a bigger difference than you'd think. Here's the most effective method, plus the mistakes most people make.

1
Fill a bag with vinegar
Pour white vinegar into a plastic bag -- enough to submerge the shower head nozzle when tied on.
2
Attach the bag
Secure the bag around the shower head with a rubber band so the nozzle is fully submerged in vinegar. Let it soak for several hours or overnight.
3
Remove and scrub
Take off the bag and turn on the shower briefly to flush loosened deposits. Scrub remaining buildup from the nozzle holes with an old toothbrush.
4
Polish the fixture
Wipe the entire shower head and arm with Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner for a streak-free shine.

TIPFor a detachable shower head, simply unscrew it and soak the head in a bowl of vinegar instead of using the bag method.
TIPPoke a toothpick or safety pin into any nozzle holes that are still clogged after soaking to clear individual jets.
TIPInstall a shower filter if you have hard water -- it reduces mineral deposits on the shower head, glass, and your hair and skin.

XLeaving vinegar on brass or gold-plated fixtures for too long, which can damage the finish. Limit soaking to 30 minutes for these materials.
XUsing chemical descalers on plated fixtures, which strip the decorative finish.
XIgnoring a clogged shower head for too long, which allows bacteria to grow inside the mineral deposits.

Monthly in areas with hard water. Every 2-3 months in areas with soft water.