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10 Best Shower Heads of 2024

Updated
Get the ultimate shower experience.

A relaxing shower is an ideal way to start or end your day, or simply a fast and effective way to keep clean. One of the most important parts of any shower is the shower head, which will influence the spray pressure and pattern, and might also filter out contaminants in your water.

Showering is now the most popular method of personal hygiene, so it is no surprise that you will have countless shower head models to choose from. While this means you will have plenty of options, it can also make it difficult and time-consuming to find your ideal model among the many that are out there.

To help you with your search, we have reviewed ten of the best shower heads that are available today. We chose these heads based on their mounting type, finish, flow rate, and how many spray types they have.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the AquaHomeGroup Filtered Shower
Best Luxury Shower Head
AquaHomeGroup Filtered Shower
  • Very effective filter
  • Vitamin C & E cartridge
  • Gift box
Product Image of the Delta Faucet H2Okinetic Shower Head
Best for Small Showers
Delta Faucet H2Okinetic Shower Head
  • 4-inch size
  • Extra-wide coverage
  • WaterSense certification
Product Image of the High Sierra's All-Metal Showerhead
Best Low Flow
High Sierra's All-Metal Showerhead
  • Metal body
  • WaterSense-certified
  • Three pressures modes
Product Image of the AquaBliss TheraSpa Hand Shower
Best Handheld
AquaBliss TheraSpa Hand Shower
  • Six spray modes
  • Self-cleaning nozzles
  • Anti-tangle hose
Product Image of the SparkPod Shower Head
Best High-Pressure
SparkPod Shower Head
  • Easy-to-remove restrictor
  • Silicone nozzles
  • Wide coverage
Product Image of the PIH High-Pressure Shower Head
Best for RVs
PIH High-Pressure Shower Head
  • Pause button
  • Three modes
  • 59-inch hose
Product Image of the KES All-Metal Rain Shower Head
Best Rainfall
KES All-Metal Rain Shower Head
  • Stainless steel body
  • Three finish options
  • 7.9 inches wide
Product Image of the Moen Engage Magnetix Showerhead
Best for Seniors
Moen Engage Magnetix Showerhead
  • Magnetic docking system
  • Wide spray coverage
  • Six modes
Product Image of the OrchidBest Handheld Shower Head
Best Budget Pick
OrchidBest Handheld Shower Head
  • Includes pause button
  • Three pressure modes
  • Detachable parts for easy cleaning
Product Image of the Triton Seville 7.5kW Electric Shower
Best for Electric Shower
Triton Seville 7.5kW Electric Shower
  • Three heating modes
  • Adjustable height
  • On-demand heating

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, you can trust our comprehensive analysis of the best shower heads. We evaluate products from a hands-on user perspective, utilizing our experience and professional insight to compare and rank each item. Our evaluation criteria are based on performance, design choices, and user impact, revealing what sets each product apart from its competitors. We measure, test, and track data, providing factual evidence to support our findings. Our reviews offer an in-depth assessment of key decision-making factors such as water pressure, spray patterns, material durability, and installation ease. Trust our thorough research and objective reviews to guide your purchase decision.



The Best Shower Heads of 2024

With so many shower heads to choose from, it can be difficult to find the right option for your bathroom, which is why we have reviewed ten of the best shower heads that are currently available. These models were chosen for their type, materials, spray modes, and any extra features they have.

AquaHomeGroup Luxury Filtered Shower Head

Best Luxury Shower Head

Although this AquaHomeGroup shower head only has one spray mode, it does have a very useful feature in the form of a water filter. If you live in a hard water area or are concerned about contaminants, a shower head filter will help protect your hair and skin.

This head’s filter has 15 stages to remove various contaminants, including chlorine and heavy metals. Doing this will also get rid of unpleasant odors.

An extra cartridge is used to add vitamins C and E to the water, to compensate for any beneficial minerals that are removed by filtration. This feature should provide a boost to the health of your hair and skin.

The shower head is beautifully presented in a luxurious black gift box. This box also contains Teflon tape, O-rings, and five shower caps if you don’t want to get your hair wet during a shower.

How often you need to replace the filters will vary based on your water quality and how frequently the shower is used. In any case, they should last about six months, making this a very low-maintenance filtration option.

Pros

  • 15-stage filter
  • Vitamin C and E cartridge
  • Presented in a gift box

Cons

  • The filter should be replaced twice per year

Product Specs

Head Dimensions 4.5 inches
Number of Settings 1
Material(s) Aluminum shower head, chrome filter
Flow Rate 2.5 GPM
Warranty Not specified

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Flow Rate
3.5 / 5
Spray Patterns
2 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

User Experience

Definitely, this shower head has dramatically improved my shower experience, providing a luxurious, chlorine-free spray that leaves my skin and hair feeling great. The 1.8gpm water flow limiter is perfect, though you might encounter minor leaks at first. However, adding extra plumber tape and tightening the nozzle head's joint with a vise-grip wrench resolved these minor issues. While the swivel of the shower head might require a bit of effort to adjust, and the cartridges need to be replaced regularly, these are small trade-offs for the overall enjoyment this product brings.

Delta Faucet 2-Spray H2Okinetic Shower Head

Best Shower Head for Small Showers

A compact shower head doesn’t have to be weak or low-quality. Despite being small, this model has all the quality you expect from Delta, one of the leading names in shower design.

As the head is relatively small, Delta has designed it to provide extra coverage, rather than the narrow spray that many compact heads have. It also provides excellent spray pressure, despite using 20% less water than a standard head, as guaranteed by its WaterSense EPA certification.

This head only has four nozzles but they are large and powerful. A side knob allows you to switch between three spray modes: strong, drenching, or gentle flow.

The nozzles are also designed to reduce mineral buildup and be easy to clean. Style is an important part of a modern shower head, and this one has a gleaming chrome finish for a luxurious look.

Pros

  • Compact size
  • Wide coverage
  • WaterSense-certified
  • Self-cleaning nozzles

Cons

  • Wide coverage can spray out of small shower enclosures

Product Specs

Head Dimensions 4.06 inches
Number of Settings 3
Material(s) Plastic, chrome finish
Flow Rate 2.5 GPM
Warranty Lifetime limited warranty

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Flow Rate
4 / 5
Spray Patterns
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

This shower head has been a great addition to my home and the cabin, despite both locations dealing with low water pressure. The sleek, modern design is noteworthy, fitting comfortably even in my relatively small shower area. I've found the high-volume setting to my liking ensuring good water pressure, with an adjustable lever for flow control. The design is based on the H2Okinetic flow concept, which claims to use less water, although it's difficult for me to validate this as a single user. The shower head is larger than anticipated with an interesting flange design, which unfortunately shows mineral deposit residue. Despite that minor flaw, this shower head has remained my favorite for the past seven years due to its consistent and strong spray pressure.

High Sierra All-Metal Low Flow Showerhead

Best Low Flow Shower Head

This High Sierra shower head is designed to provide a low flow rate of 1.5 GPM. If you are concerned that this will be too low, 1.8 and 2.0 GPM models are also available. If your shower arm is more than 7 feet above your bathroom floor, the manufacturer recommends using a 1.8 GPM model.

Installing the 1.5 model should reduce your shower’s water use by about 40% compared to a standard 2.5 GPM shower head. It is even WaterSense certified, meeting EPA standards in terms of performance and efficiency (1).

Although it is low-flow, you will still receive a generous spray of large droplets. The head can be aimed by adjusting its swivel.

The entire product is made of metal and has a chrome, nickel, bronze, or brass finish to ensure it will complement the rest of your bathroom.

Pros

  • Metallic body instead of plastic
  • WaterSense-certified
  • Three flow rate options are available

Cons

  • Narrow spray

Product Specs

Head Dimensions 1 inch
Number of Settings 1
Material(s) Chrome finish, solid metal body
Flow Rate 1.5 GPM
Warranty 2-year warranty

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Flow Rate
4.5 / 5
Spray Patterns
2 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Community Feedback

In my search for a low flow shower head, I stumbled upon this shower head and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer. Despite my initial fear that the 1.25 gal/minute unit might be weak, it's surprisingly potent - a serious upgrade from my previous water-saving model. This shower head is robust, easy to install, and produces a strong, full shower experience that rinses off soap and shaving cream quickly, all while using even less water. However, I did notice it's a tad noisier than a regular shower and causes some splash back. Despite these minor drawbacks, it's still a top-notch product, giving you a satisfying, drenching shower while conserving water.

AquaBliss TheraSpa Hand Shower

Best Handheld Shower Head

This AquaBliss TheraSpa shower head is designed to provide consistent high-pressure water flow. A water restrictor limits it to the US maximum of 2.5 GPM, but it is simple to remove if you want an even more intense spray.

With six spray modes, this is a very versatile handheld shower head. It is attached to your shower valve via a long hose, which is designed specifically to prevent tangles or kinks.

The mineral content in water often clogs shower nozzles, but this head has been designed to prevent that. It has high-quality silicone nozzles to discourage clogging and make it easier to clean. This keeps its spray powerful and reduces maintenance time.

Pros

  • Six spray modes
  • Wide coverage
  • Anti-tangle hose

Cons

  • Might lack durability

Product Specs

Head Dimensions 6 inches
Number of Settings 1
Material(s) Brass mount, silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated
Flow Rate 2.5 GPM
Warranty 1-year warranty

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Flow Rate
4 / 5
Spray Patterns
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
3 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

From my experience, this shower head was a relatively good purchase. I especially appreciated the simple installation process and the longer hose length, even though it didn't last too long before breaking. The different settings on the shower head were sufficient, although the focused stream could've been narrower, but overall, it got the job done.

SparkPod Shower Head

Best High-Pressure Shower Head

This SparkPod rainfall shower head is stylish, durable, and functional. It has a water restrictor that limits its flow rate to 1.8 GPM. This should be enough for a thorough, relaxing shower but the restrictor can be removed if you want more.

With 90 high-quality silicone nozzles are made of silicone with anti-clogging and self-cleaning properties. You can rely on it to provide wide coverage, which is particularly important with a rain shower.

This head is designed to be fixed on your wall, but it has a swivel ball that allows you to adjust its aim. Your purchase is protected by a 12-month warranty, giving you plenty of time to install it and ensure it works properly.

Pros

  • The flow restrictor can be easily removed
  • Self-cleaning nozzles
  • Provides wide coverage
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Some users discovered leaks around the swivel ball

Product Specs

Head Dimensions 6 inches
Number of Settings 1
Material(s) Silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated
Flow Rate 1.8 GPM
Warranty 1-year warranty

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Flow Rate
4.5 / 5
Spray Patterns
3 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

I'm quite pleased with this SparkPod rainfall shower head. It's fashionable, sturdy, and wonderfully practical, with a water limit that's adjustable to your preference. The 90 silicone nozzles give a broad, rain-like coverage and their self-cleaning feature is a big plus. I appreciate the flexibility of the swivel ball, even though I did notice a slight leak around it. Installation was straightforward, and the one-year warranty gives a sense of security.

PIH High-Pressure RV Handheld Shower Head

Best RV Showerhead

For most people, showering is the main part of their hygiene routine. Finding a high-quality shower can be difficult if you’re on vacation, which is why this compact PIH shower head has been designed to fit into tight RV showers.

Despite being compact, this head should provide wide enough coverage for your entire body. It includes a wall bracket, allowing you to aim it wherever you need it. Some reviewers were able to place the head in their existing wall bracket.

This model provides strong spray pressure without consuming your hot water too quickly, so you won’t have to worry about ending up with a cold shower.

With three spray modes, you can choose from a full or massage spray, or press the convenient pause button to immediately pause the flow while applying shampoo or other products. The head is attached via a 59-inch flexible hose, providing greater versatility and letting you reach your feet.

Turn Off The Valve

If your shower head has a pause button, don’t forget to turn off the shower valve after showering. If you leave it on pause for hours or even days, it could damage the head or your plumbing as a whole.

Pros

  • High-pressure
  • Three modes
  • Pause button

Cons

  • Can be difficult to switch between modes

Product Specs

Head Dimensions Not specified
Number of Settings 3
Material(s) Plastic
Flow Rate Not specified
Warranty Not specified

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Flow Rate
4 / 5
Spray Patterns
4 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this shower head has been nothing short of transformational. The water pressure it delivers is vastly superior to the original shower head that came with our RV, and it's proven to be a major improvement in the overall showering experience. With this shower head, I've been able to enjoy extended hot showers, something I hadn't thought possible with our RV's limited hot water supply. The variety of spray settings offered add a nice touch, with the larger center holes providing a warm, pulsating shower that's not too intense. Though we've only used it for a handful of showers so far, the build quality seems sturdy and I'm hopeful it will last for many showers to come.

KES All-Metal Rain Shower Head

Best Rainfall Shower Head

Rainfall shower heads are designed to provide effortless, relaxing showers, so it is important that they have sufficient coverage. At eight inches, this KES head is one of the widest we have seen, so you shouldn’t need to adjust it during use.

If you do need to aim it slightly, the head’s swivel ball will allow you to do so. The head itself is made of stainless steel, which is resistant to both corrosion and heat, so you can count on its durability.

If you find the 2.5 GPM limit insufficient, the head’s restrictor can be easily removed to increase the flow rate. The rubber nozzles are designed to prevent limescale and other mineral deposits.

This head has an oil-rubbed bronze finish for a sleek and elegant look. If you don’t think this will suit your bathroom, there are also nickel and black finishes available.

Pros

  • Stainless steel body
  • Three finish options
  • 7.9-inch width

Cons

  • Some reviewers complain of weak water pressure

Product Specs

Head Dimensions 7.9 inches
Number of Settings 1
Material(s) Stainless steel, bronze finish, rubber nozzles
Flow Rate 2.5 GPM
Warranty 1-year warranty

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Flow Rate
4 / 5
Spray Patterns
2.5 / 5
Material Quality
5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with this shower head has been largely positive, with its premium build quality and performance standing out. It's a rainfall style shower head that provides a soothing shower experience, as the water droplets fall gently rather than shooting out at high pressure. However, as a personal preference, the lower pressure takes longer to rinse the soap off my body compared to other shower heads, which might not appeal to everyone.

Moen 26112 Engage Magnetix Handheld Showerhead

Best Shower Head for Seniors

Many of us take showering for granted, but it can be very challenging for anyone with limited mobility or dexterity. This Moen Magnetix shower head has user-friendly features that avoid some of the more difficult aspects of showering.

Taking a shower head from its bracket is generally quite easy, but putting it back can be challenging. Moen has made this much easier by implementing a magnetic docking system.

Instead of needing to thread the hose and handset into the bracket, this head will snap back into place thanks to its magnets. To remove it again, you can simply pull the handset gently.

This shower head can be used while held in the extension arm, so it can serve as a handheld or overhead shower. With a 5.5-inch head and wide coverage, you shouldn’t need to move around much when the head is mounted.

Focusing on user-friendliness doesn’t mean a shower head can’t have some extra features. This model has six spray modes, which are easily accessed by pressing a button on the head itself.

Pros

  • Magnetic docking system
  • Wide spray coverage
  • Six spray modes

Cons

  • Water pressure could be lacking

Product Specs

Head Dimensions 6 inches
Number of Settings 6
Material(s) Chrome finish
Flow Rate 2 GPM
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty

Our Ratings

Design
5 / 5
Flow Rate
3.5 / 5
Spray Patterns
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I'm thrilled with this shower head's performance and overall value. The magnetic handheld design is truly innovative, making it easy to use and dock back into place. I particularly like the wide range of spray settings available at the touch of a button. This shower head also impresses with its robust water flow, a marked improvement over my previous model. However, it's not without its drawbacks. The lack of a water pause feature and the inability to angle the shower head down more are minor inconveniences that could enhance the product further.

OrchidBest Handheld Shower Head

Best Budget Shower Head

If you’re looking for excellent value for money, this OrchidBest model is a great option. Despite being among the most affordable shower heads available, it has multiple helpful features.

There are three different spray patterns with a jet function, massage mode, and rainfall water flow. The control panel makes it easy to switch between the modes. It is conveniently placed on the side of the head, making it easily accessible.

There is also an on/off button located just under the head. This allows you to control the flow of water without touching the main shower valve, which is very helpful when washing children or pets. Just don’t forget to turn the shower off when you’re finished, to avoid damaging your plumbing.

This model uses up to 35% less water than a traditional shower while maintaining your water pressure. You should reduce how much water you waste, which will have a positive impact on your bills.

Might Need New Hardware

The hose and bracket aren’t included. You might be able to use your old ones if they have a 0.04-inch connector — or you can purchase new hardware.

Pros

  • Pause button
  • Three pressure modes
  • Detachable parts for easy cleaning

Cons

  • Doesn’t include a hose or bracket

Product Specs

Head Dimensions Not specified
Number of Settings 3
Material(s) Chrome finish, ABS plastic, stainless steel panel
Flow Rate Not specified
Warranty Not specified

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Flow Rate
3.5 / 5
Spray Patterns
4 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

For a practical and affordable shower head, this product hits the mark. I've found the on/off button particularly handy when I'm bathing my dog, allowing me to easily control the water flow while applying shampoo. Despite its lightweight and plastic construction, it has held up well over the past few weeks, even in my RV's outside shower. Just keep in mind that this shower head might not fit all standard hoses, and its small water holes could potentially clog with hard water.

Triton Seville 7.5kW Electric Shower

Best For Electric Shower

As an electric shower, the Triton Seville heats water on-demand, ensuring you don’t have more hot water than necessary.

This product includes a control panel, a handheld shower head, a 49-inch anti-twist hose, and a riser rail. The white head and chrome riser should complement most bathroom styles.

Two knobs control the shower’s water temperature. The upper knob allows you to choose from three main modes: cold, economy, and hot. The lower dial offers precise adjustment to achieve your ideal shower temperature.

A riser rail allows you to adjust the height of the shower head when it is held in the wall mount. If placed properly, this rail should ensure that the shower is suitable for every member of your household.

If you are concerned about using an electrical device in a wet environment, this model has been tested to the highest safety standards. It also features a sensor that prevents the water from becoming too hot and shuts the shower off if it exceeds the maximum temperature.

Pros

  • Three heating modes
  • Precise temperature adjustment
  • Riser rail to alter height

Cons

  • Water takes longer to heat than expected

Product Specs

Head Dimensions Not indicated
Number of Settings 1
Material(s) Plastic, chrome finish bar
Flow Rate 2 to 2.5 GPM
Warranty 2 years (UK only)

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Flow Rate
4 / 5
Spray Patterns
2.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

This Triton Seville electric shower captures my admiration with its ability to heat water on-demand, preventing any wastage of hot water. The design, featuring a white head and chrome riser, beautifully complements my bathroom decor. I appreciate the dual knob system which permits me to select from three modes - cold, economy, and hot, and fine-tune the temperature to my liking. However, I've noticed that the water takes a bit longer to heat than I initially expected, a minor flaw in an otherwise impressive appliance.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Dimensions No. of Settings Material(s) Flow Rate Warranty
AquaHomeGroup Filtered Shower Luxury 4.5″ 1 Aluminum shower head, chrome filter 2.5 GPM N/A
Delta Faucet H2Okinetic Small Showers 4.06″ 3 Plastic, chrome finish 2.5 GPM Lifetime limited
High Sierra’s All-Metal Low Flow 1″ 1 Chrome finish, solid metal body 1.5 GPM 2-year warranty
AquaBliss TheraSpa Hand Shower Handheld 6″ 1 Brass swivel, silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated 2.5 GPM 1-year
SparkPod Shower Head High-Pressure 6″ 1 Silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated 1.8 GPM 1-year
PIH High-Pressure Shower Head RV N/A 3 Plastic N/A N/A
KES All-Metal Rain Shower Rainfall 7.9″ 1 Stainless steel, bronze finish, rubber nozzles 2.5 GPM 1-year
Moen Engage Magnetix Seniors 6″ 6 Chrome finish 2 GPM Limited lifetime
OrchidBest Handheld Budget Pick N/A 3 Chrome finish, ABS plastic, stainless steel panel N/A N/A
Triton Seville  Electric Shower Electric Shower N/A 1 Plastic, chrome finish bar 2 to 2.5 GPM 2 years (UK only)

Types of Shower Heads

Main Types

Single-Function Shower Heads

Single-function shower heads are designed to be simple and effective. As their name suggests, they have a single flow setting, making them one of the most user-friendly types. This makes them a great option for anyone that has no interest in extra settings and wants a simple, user-friendly shower.

They are generally smaller and less expensive than more complex shower heads.

Pros

  • Simple to use
  • Don’t occupy much space
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Can’t be adjusted to suit individual preferences

Multi-Function Shower Heads

If you have a large household or want to be able to use various settings for different tasks, a multi-function shower head provides greater versatility. Standard multi-function heads might have two or three spray modes but high-end models often have five or more.

The best multi-function shower heads might feature settings such as a spa massage, aeration jets, and low and high-pressure flow rates to help you save water.

Pros

  • Various spray settings for greater versatility
  • Usually have more nozzles for fuller body coverage
  • Provides an at-home spa experience

Cons

  • Some heads require a high-pressure shower valve

Other Types

All shower heads fall into the broad categories of single or multi-function, but there are also some popular subcategories that are worth mentioning.

Rainfall Shower Head

If you want to capture the invigorating feeling of a tropical rainstorm, consider choosing a rainfall model. Rainfall showers are generally less versatile, fixed in place, and have a single spray setting. Some higher-end models will allow you to switch between light rain, torrential rain, or somewhere in the middle.

Rainfall showers are often square and many can be mounted on your bathroom ceiling. They are also usually larger than other shower heads, meaning they are also more expensive.

Pros

  • Sometimes have multiple spray settings
  • Provide excellent coverage
  • Usually offer low pressure

Cons

  • Ceiling-mounted models can be challenging to install

High-Tech Shower Head

Some shower heads offer one or more high-tech features, such as a Bluetooth speaker to listen to the radio or your personal playlists. Other popular features include chromotherapy and aromatherapy.

Electric showers also fall into this category. They heat water on demand and could reduce your energy bills. They are especially useful if you have solar power, as the electricity you generate can be used to heat your water.

Pros

  • Can add entertainment options to your shower
  • Chromotherapy and aromatherapy enhance relaxation
  • Electric models can reduce fuel bills

Cons

  • Some models may require batteries

Specialist Shower Heads

Some heads are designed for specific users, such as those with limited hand dexterity. Others are meant to be suitable for installation in compact spaces such as a motorhome or RV.

If you are concerned about the quality of your water supply, some shower heads feature a built-in filter. These models remove contaminants and many also add vitamins to encourage healthier hair.

Pros

  • Designed for specific users or settings
  • Filtered models can boost hair health
  • Usually user-friendly

Cons

  • Specialization means they are less versatile

Shower Head GPM and Pressure

What is GPM?

When shopping for a shower head, you should always see a GPM listed among a model’s specifications. GPM is short for gallons-per-minute and refers to how much water a product will use for every minute that it is at full strength.

The higher the GPM, the stronger the maximum water pressure will be. In the United States, new shower heads have been limited to a maximum of 2.5 GPM since 1994 (2). This is to reduce water waste while showering. It is often possible to remove the limiter, but this can significantly increase your water balls and 2.5 GPM should be more than enough.

Water Pressure

Your maximum water pressure is largely determined by your municipal water supply, which is something you can’t control.

If you feel the 2.5 GPM limit is too restrictive, there are a couple of ways to overcome it:

  • Flow restrictor: You can remove the water flow restrictor inside the shower head. This can significantly increase your water pressure but it will be reflected in your bills, so think carefully before you do it.
  • Pressurized shower head: A pressurized shower head will boost the spray pressure of your shower without using extra water. Some multi-function heads offer various modes that allow you to adjust the pressure.

On the other hand, if you want to reduce your bills, look for a head with a GPM between 1.5 and 2. These should still clean you thoroughly while using far less water.

How to Choose the Best Shower Head?

In addition to the shower head type, there are some other key points to keep in mind:

Fixed Versus Handheld

Fixed shower heads are directly attached to a short arm mounted on the wall or ceiling. They don’t have a hose, meaning they require less maintenance but also aren’t very versatile. Depending on the model, you might be able to aim the head, but you won’t be able to hold it to target specific areas.

On the other hand, handheld heads are connected via a flexible hose. They can be placed in a wall mount for hands-free use or held so they can be aimed at specific parts of your body.

If you want a shower that is both versatile and relaxing, you can buy a combination shower with a fixed head and a handheld one. Depending on the model, you might be able to use both heads simultaneously or you might be limited to one at a time.

Shower Nozzles

Shower nozzles are small holes where water leaves the head. Despite their diminutive size, nozzles are one of the most important parts of any shower as they will influence spray pressure. It is also important to choose the right nozzle material, as they are susceptible to blocking if you live in a hard water area.

Nozzle Sizes

Nozzle size is an important aspect of any shower head, as it determines how much water can spray through each nozzle. Larger nozzles will allow more water through, providing a heavier flow, but smaller nozzles mean the water might be forced through at a higher velocity, making the spray more intense.

Nozzle Quantity

In addition to nozzle size, the number of nozzles is also important. Generally, the larger the head, the more nozzles it has. Larger heads with more nozzles will provide superior body coverage, which is why fixed rainfall showers usually have many nozzles.

Nozzle Material

The nozzle material is very important as nozzles are notorious for becoming clogged by minerals in hard water areas. Metallic nozzles are not recommended as they are particularly vulnerable to limescale and corrosion.

The best modern nozzles are made of silicone, but many are rubber or plastic. These will discourage mineral deposits and should also be easy to rub clean with your palm if any deposits do form.

Finish and Style

The shower is one of the key features of any bathroom, so you will probably want your shower head to complement the rest of your bathroom’s design. Thankfully, shower heads are available in various finishes including steel, chrome, nickel, bronze, or plain white, so you should be able to find one that suits your bathroom.

They also come in different shapes. Some models are thin and sleek, which are ideal for minimalist modern bathrooms, while some are very compact to fit into smaller shower enclosures.

Easy Installation

If you don’t want to hire a professional plumber and want to use your new shower as soon as possible, try to find one that is easy to install. Wall-mounted shower heads are generally easier to install than ceiling-mounted ones. You can also read customer reviews to get a sense of people’s experiences when installing them.

Water and Energy Consumption

In the United States, an estimated 1.2 trillion gallons of water are used in showers every year (3). While our showering habits are a major part of this, so are the shower models we use.

Products with WaterSense EPA certification guarantee a reduction in water consumption of at least 20%. This should also be reflected in your water bills  (4).

Which Shower Head Brand is the Best?

The shower head market is very competitive, with some recognizable names at the top of the pile.

Moen

Al Moen began manufacturing faucets in the 1930s. His company’s business soon expanded to include other kitchen and bathroom products. With almost a century of experience, Moen is one of the leading shower head brands around the world. Moen’s products are designed for both residential and commercial uses.

Delta

Delta is renowned for constantly innovating new ways to use water as efficiently as possible. Its proprietary technologies — such as H2Okinetics — are designed to make bathroom and kitchen hardware more convenient and economical.

Delta’s advancements are reflected by the awards it has received, including being an Edison award winner. It was also the EPA’s partner of the year for several years (5).

AquaHomeGroup

AquaHomeGroup specializes in filtered shower heads. These filters are designed to remove impurities such as chlorine and other contaminants, as well as unpleasant odors. Some of the brand’s products add vitamin C to water, as this might be removed by the filtration process. They also sell filters that can be added to most standard shower heads.

SparkPod

SparkPod produces both filtered and rain shower heads, in addition to other products such as coffee machines.

The company is also committed to giving back to the community. It provides seeds and equipment to farmers in developing countries, as well as providing credits to aspiring entrepreneurs.

High Sierra

Launched by David Malcolm in California, High Sierra’s first products were designed for irrigation in the golf and agricultural industries. The company developed nozzle technology using a low pressure of 1.5 GPM, reducing energy and water use.

Today, High Sierra designs and manufactures energy-efficient, environmentally-friendly shower heads.

Triton

Triton is based in the United Kingdom but can deliver anywhere in the United States. It has manufactured shower heads — including electric models — since 1975, so it is well-established. It won two British awards in 2017, in the “Best of British” and “Best Bathroom Supplier” categories.

The manufacturer is dedicated to making affordable products that are still functional, high-quality, and long-lasting.


FAQs

How to Clean a Shower Head

Shower heads are frequently exposed to water, which makes them susceptible to dirt and mineral buildups. As these deposits build, they can narrow the nozzles and eventually block them, making your shower unusable. Thankfully, modern heads are designed to be as easy to clean as possible.

  1. Brush the nozzles: Remove superficial dirt with your hand or an old toothbrush.
  2. Soak in white vinegar: You can either unscrew the shower head and remove it or leave it attached. If you leave it in place, fill a small watertight bag with white vinegar, place it over the head and secure it with tape. Leave it for a few hours to soak. If you remove it, simply place it in a bucket or sink of white vinegar.
  3. Run water: If you removed the head, reattach it. Run the shower for a few minutes to flush out any remaining vinegar.
  4. Clean the filter: There might be a small mesh or screen between the shower head and the pipe or hose. You can use an old toothbrush to remove any dirt buildup and then put it back in place.

Be Gentle

Don’t use chemical cleaners as they could damage the shower head and its finish.

How to Replace a Shower Head

Although it varies from model to model, replacing a shower head is generally very easy and can be done in minutes. They usually have universal connections, meaning they can be simply screwed onto your existing fittings.

  1. Cover the drain: Place a towel over your shower drain or plug your bathtub. This means you won’t have to worry about losing any parts down the drain.
  2. Remove the current head: Unscrew your old shower head and clean any tape residue around the connector.
  3. Teflon tape: Wrap some new Teflon tape around the connector to ensure a watertight seal.
  4. Attach the new head: Attach your new shower head. This is usually as simple as screwing it onto the connector.
  5. Test your new shower: Run the shower and ensure the connection doesn’t leak. If it doesn’t, you can enjoy your new shower head..

How to Unclog a Shower Head

Soaking your shower head in white vinegar should remove mild clogs. If the clogging is particularly stubborn, you can boil the vinegar for more intense cleaning:

  1. Preparation: Pour a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water into a saucepan.
  2. Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil and submerge your shower head in it.
  3. Soak: Let it boil for 10 to 15 minutes.
  4. Rinse: Rinse the vinegar off with clean water and reassemble your shower.

How to Fix a Leaking Shower Head

Most leaks come from the connection between the shower head and its hose or mount. This is often due to a damaged O-ring or washer, or worn down Teflon tape:

  1. Disassemble: Remove the shower head and take out the washer and/or O-ring.
  2. Get a new washer: Buy a replacement washer at your local hardware store. You should take the old one with you to ensure you buy a matching size.
  3. Teflon tape: Remove any Teflon tape from the connection and replace it with fresh tape for a watertight connection.
  4. Install the new one: With the new part in place, reassemble the shower and test it.

Clean Before Reassembly

As you are already disassembling the shower head, it might be worth soaking it in white vinegar to give it a thorough clean.

How to Raise a Shower Head

Raising a shower head by a few inches is a simple process that should only take a few minutes. You can probably do it without even replacing your existing shower head:

  1. Remove the extension arm: If you struggle to unscrew the extension arm, you can use a wrench.
  2. Purchase a new one: Some extension arms can raise the shower head by as much as 10 to 12 inches. “S pipe” models are popular but there are many others to choose from.
  3. Attach and Test: After attaching the shower head to your new extension, test the shower to ensure it works and the connections are watertight.

Are High-End Shower Heads Worth It?

While manufacturers argue that high-end shower heads are worth the extra money, this is largely a matter of personal taste.

High-end heads can often provide a more powerful spray without using extra water, which makes them more effective at cleaning. This is usually due to advanced nozzle designs and pressure-sensitive controls.

They also tend to be made using higher quality materials than basic shower heads, which can give them longer lifespans.

On the other hand, the advanced features of high-end shower heads can make them degrade more quickly, particularly electric showers.

If you have a large budget, a high-end shower head can provide some extra power, luxury, and durability. With that said, there are numerous excellent shower heads out there that will serve you for many years without breaking the bank.

How Much Does a Good Shower Head Cost?

While some high-quality shower heads can be purchased for as little as $75, high-end heads generally fall in the $100-$150 range.

Factors such as material, design, and water pressure can have a significant influence on pricing and should be considered when comparing different products.

What Type of Shower Head Saves the Most Water?

Many people turn to low-flow shower heads when trying to reduce their water use. According to EPA, these heads can save up to 2,700 gallons of water per year for an average household in the United States.

These special heads use less water than traditional models without sacrificing water pressure, so they provide the best of both worlds. There are numerous low-flow shower heads available today, with some using considerably less water than others.

A reliable way to find good heads is to look for WaterSense-approved products, which must meet strict performance standards. These low-flow shower heads typically use 20% less water than standard models, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to make their showers more eco-friendly.

What Size Rain Shower Head Is the Best?

The best rain shower head size will usually be determined by the size of your shower enclosure and your home’s water pressure. Large models can be as wide as 12 inches, providing excellent coverage and capturing a true rainstorm effect.

If you have limited water pressure or a small enclosure, you might be better off with a smaller model to make the most of your available resources. A decently-sized head is about 6 inches across, but larger models will provide more of the luxury that you want from a rainfall shower.

What Is the Best Current Shower Head?

The DreamSpa® Ultra-Luxury 5-Setting Rainfall LED Shower Head makes a solid case for being the current best shower head. The High-Power 8″ chrome face with a reflective rim delivers a powerful, full body spray that should leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

With an easy-to-use 3-color water temperature sensor, you will be able to set your ideal water temperature and trust that the shower will deliver it.

The DreamSpa also offers five unique settings, including Power Rain, Pulsating Massage, and Hydro Mist.


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About the Author

Peter Gray

Peter has been a homeowner for 35+ years and has always done his own repair and improvement tasks. As a retired plumber, Peter now spends his time teaching others how they can fix leaks, replace faucets, and make home improvements on a budget.