The zip-lock bag descale trick

You will need

• White vinegar (2 cups) · Woolies homebrand white vinegar, ~$1.50 for 2L
• Zip-lock bag (medium or large) · Glad zip-lock bags from Woolies/Coles, ~$4 for a pack
• Rubber band or zip tie · Any stationery drawer rubber band, or Bunnings zip ties ~$4 for a pack
• Old toothbrush · Anything you have at home, free
• Microfibre cloth · Bunnings sells a 3-pack for ~$5

Step 1

Don't remove the shower head

This trick works with the shower head still attached to the wall — no tools needed. Leave everything in place and just grab your zip-lock bag.

Step 2

Fill the bag with white vinegar

Pour about 1–2 cups of white vinegar into the zip-lock bag. You need enough to fully submerge the shower head face when the bag is held up around it.

Step 3

Bag it up and secure

Slide the open bag up over the shower head so the face is sitting in the vinegar. Fold the top of the bag over the pipe and wrap a rubber band or zip tie firmly around it to hold it in place — it should stay on its own.

Step 4

Leave it overnight (or at least 4 hours)

The acid in the vinegar dissolves the calcium and limescale build-up slowly and gently. Overnight is ideal — the longer it soaks, the better the result.

Step 5

Remove, scrub and flush

Peel the bag off and discard it. Use the old toothbrush to scrub any remaining gunk out of the nozzle holes. Run the shower on hot for 30 seconds to flush everything through, then wipe the head dry with your microfibre cloth.

The stop point

If the shower head is cracked, the pipe fitting is visibly corroded or dripping at the wall connection, or the water pressure is still very low after descaling → stop, you need a licensed plumber.

Mendy calls tradies for you. Your first booking is free, then $3.50 a booking.

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