Hi @aerogirl, I moved your question about handheld shower heads to this existing discussion. Click VIEW & REPLY to read through past posts. As you said, there is so much wisdom in this group. You'll see how members question, research and follow evidence-based information.

I'd like to bring @sueinmn into this discussion. You might also find the information in these 2 related discussions helpful:
- Practical questions about nebulizer, shower head filters & gargling https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/some-practical-questions/
- More Water Related Questions https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/more-water-related-questions/
- How To Prevent Re-Infection of MAC/MAI https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/how-to-prevent-re-infection-of-macmai/

Aerogirl, can you explain why a handheld shower head might create more opportunity for mycobacteria growth? In my mind, it wouldn't but perhaps I'm missing something.

Hi aerogirl. I cannot say for sure if the handheld type of shower is worse or not. I would imagine that it isn't good because water can collect in the loop of the hose. What are you looking to replace your showerhead with?

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9802317/
According to this study, greater numbers of bacteria were found in “rain head” style shower heads than hand held or “massage” heads. I wonder if that’s because rain head styles are mounted flat and therefore don’t drain completely or dry as fast?

I’ve also been researching using vinegar for disinfecting shower head. Seems it has to be at least 6% acetic acid. Most of what is sold in US is less than that. At that higher strength, can only submerge 30 minutes before damage to materials.

I use a household vinegar soak once a week to reduce mineral clogging but I’m not finding where that practice kills MAC. Even so called “cleaning vinegar” in the US is only 5%.