# Unexpected Item Becomes Breeding Ground for Dangerous Bacteria If Not Washed

An ordinary showerhead can become a dangerous source of infections if regular cleaning is neglected.

As reported by BAKU.WS, Russian specialist Maria Zolotareva warned about this in a conversation with "Gazeta.Ru".

According to her, stable biofilms can form on the inner walls of pipes, and over time, in the narrow openings of the showerhead itself. These are colonies of microorganisms protected by a layer of mucus they produce, which develop when water stagnates and there are irregularities on surfaces.

"Such biofilm becomes an excellent shelter for various microbes, including opportunistic pathogens. The warm and humid environment of the bathroom only promotes their active multiplication. And while contact with these bacteria usually passes without consequences for people with strong immunity, for those whose body's defenses are weakened or who have chronic ailments, this can result in serious health problems," the expert explained.

Passing through the openings of the nozzle, water forms a fine aerosol - a suspension of droplets in the air. Along with it, bacteria and biofilm particles can penetrate into the lungs. For children, elderly citizens, and people with pulmonary diseases such as asthma, this is fraught with respiratory complications, allergies, and in rare situations even legionellosis - a severe form of pneumonia. Additionally, regular exposure of such water to the skin can cause dermatitis or irritation, especially in the presence of micro-injuries.

"To maintain hygiene, it is not enough to simply wipe the showerhead on the outside. Deep cleaning is necessary to destroy the very structure of the biofilm. The most effective and accessible method is using organic acids. The procedure is recommended to be performed approximately once every two months, and with high water hardness - even more frequently," Zolotareva emphasized.

The cleaning process is simple: remove the nozzle and immerse it in a container with a warm solution of nine-percent table vinegar or citric acid (at a ratio of 100-150 grams per liter of water). The liquid should completely cover the internal elements. It is important to verify in advance that the acid will not damage the material of the product, especially if it involves chrome plating or rubber parts.

"After verifying material compatibility, the showerhead can be left in the solution for a period from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the degree of contamination. The acid effectively dissolves limescale, the roughness of which promotes bacterial attachment. After soaking, the device should be thoroughly rinsed under a stream of cold water to remove residues of the cleaning agent and loosened dirt," the pharmacist concluded.