How to Clean A Shower Valve


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Experiencing reduced water flow during your shower? A clogged valve may be the cause. Over time, mineral deposits can build up, preventing your fixture from operating correctly. That lack of efficiency can result in excessive water and energy usage, as your shower must work harder and longer to operate at satisfactory levels. Fortunately, following a few simple steps will get things running like new.

Tools and Materials


  • Screwdriver

  • White Vinegar

  • Channel Lock Pliers

Illustration of steps to clean a shower valve - Screwdriver, white vinegar, & channel lock pliers

Illustrations showing turning off a shower valve and removing the handle and trim piece from the front of the valve body Illustrations showing turning off a shower valve and removing the handle and trim piece from the front of the valve body

STEP 1

Shut off the water and open the shower valve to drain the water lines. Remove the handle and, using a screwdriver, remove the trim piece from the front of the valve body.

Illustration showing channel lock pliers removing the cartridge from the shower valve body to clean the shower valve
STEP 2

With channel lock pliers, unthread the cartridge.

Remove from the valve body.

Illustration showing channel lock pliers removing the cartridge from the shower valve body to clean the shower valve
STEP 2

With channel lock pliers, unthread the cartridge.

Remove from the valve body.

Illustration showing soaking the valve cartridge in vinegar to clean the shower valve
STEP 3

Soak the cartridge in white vinegar for an hour. Remove and rinse thoroughly with water.

Illustration showing soaking the valve cartridge in vinegar to clean the shower valve
STEP 3

Soak the cartridge in white vinegar for an hour. Remove and rinse thoroughly with water.

Illustration showing flushing the open valve with cold water to clean the shower valve
STEP 4

While the cartridge is soaking, turn on your shower to flush the opening. We recommend opening the cold water side of the valve to avoid contact with hot water. Turn the valve just enough to let the water flow gently. Use a plastic tote or large bucket to catch the water or direct the water down.

Illustration showing flushing the open valve with cold water to clean the shower valve
STEP 4

While the cartridge is soaking, turn on your shower to flush the opening. We recommend opening the cold water side of the valve to avoid contact with hot water. Turn the valve just enough to let the water flow gently. Use a plastic tote or large bucket to catch the water or direct the water down.

Illustration showing the shower valve reattached to the trim
STEP 5

Replace valve, tighten temperature stop, and reattach trim and handle.

Illustration showing the shower valve reattached to the trim
STEP 5

Replace valve, tighten temperature stop, and reattach trim and handle.

Watch our How to Clean a Clogged Shower Valve Cartridge tutorial for visual guidance and additional information.

Video Transcript

How To Clean A Clogged Shower Valve Cartridge

Step 1: Remove handle and trim piece from the front of the valve body.

Step 2: Remove the bonnet nut.

Step 3: Tighten screws to stop water flow.

Step 4: With channel lock pliers or hex wrench, unthread the cartridge and remove from valve body.

Step 5: Soak the cartridge in white vinegar for an hour. Remove and rinse thoroughly in water.

Step 6: Open the cold water side of the valve to flush the opening. Turn the valve just enough to let the water flow gently. Use a large bucket to catch the water or direct the water down.

Step 7: Replace valve, tighten temperature stop, and reattach trim and handle.

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