Prices, Promotions, styles, and availability may vary. Our local stores do not honor online pricing. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Lowe's reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted.

How to Fix a Leaking Shower Head

Holly Honeycutt

By Holly Honeycutt
Updated November 18, 2024

Do you have a leaking shower head? Whatever the cause, we'll show you six easy steps to take when your shower head is leaking.

Skill

Beginner

Time

Few Hours

Tools and Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

What Causes Showers to Leak?

A leaking shower head is often the result of a mineral build-up or a worn-out gasket. Water, especially if it's hard, contains many minerals including calcium, magnesium, lime and silica. If you see white or off-white lines around your faucets or in your bathtub or sink, it's likely mineral buildup. These same deposits can clog the small holes of your shower head, causing it to leak from another point and shower head dripping. A worn-out gasket can also produce a leaking shower head because it can no longer seal the arm properly.

Can a Leaking Shower Be Repaired?

A leaky shower head is frustrating, but in many cases, it can be easy to fix without the help of a plumber. Keep reading to find out how you can resolve simple leaks in the shower with a few simple steps.

How Do I Get My Shower to Stop Dripping?

To start with, there is a simple fix if your shower is leaking from the shower head. Place a couple of cups of white vinegar in a plastic storage bag and attach it around your shower head. Allow it to soak in the vinegar for a couple of hours and them scrub it to remove the mineral buildup.

When water mineral buildup clogs the small holes of the shower head, it may force water to leak out between the arm and the head. Replacing the gasket can also repair a leaking faucet in the shower. See the steps below for a more detailed explanation and get your shower working like new.