Biofilms are everywhere, from rock surfaces to human intestines, and they play a major role in both ecological and biological processes. But while biofilm formation is a naturally occurring part of life here on Earth, there are places where it most definitely does not belong.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly how biofilm formation happens in the bathroom, giving you practical solutions for effectively combating harmful biofilm growth in your shower. And wait! Before you put that antimicrobial shower head in your cart, read on to discover why these products are not the solution they claim to be.
Biofilm formation: why and where it happens
Biofilms are layers of bacteria or microorganisms that band together, forming strengthened slimy buildup with increased resistance to being killed or removed. It’s a survival mechanism employed by pathogenic bacteria that happens almost anywhere and everywhere.
As with bacteria, there are “good” and “bad” biofilms. Most examples of biofilms are commonly associated with disease, but there are instances of biofilm formation that offer benefits in certain environments:
Biofilms examples
- Slime that forms on shower tiles or the sides of pools – Yep, that’s not just dirt and grime. You are very likely to find colonies of bacteria in these moist environments
- Dental plaque – This complex microbial community is what leads to cavities and gum disease
- On medical equipment – Staphylococcus epidermidis, the bacteria that causes staph infections, can form biofilms on indwelling medical devices like catheters, feeding tubes, and wound drains
- Gut bacteria – An example of a biofilm that is helpful, gut bacteria is an integral part of digestion and nutrient absorption
- Slippery layer on river rocks – They may require us to be extra cautious while rock hopping, but these biofilms are also the vitally important basis of freshwater food webs in rivers
The bottom line: biofilms are everywhere. And while you shouldn’t live your life trying to avoid them altogether, you can prevent biofilm formation in some pretty key places with the greatest direct impact on your health – like your bathroom!
Biofilm formation in the bathroom
You’re most likely already used to dealing with biofilm formation when scrubbing your tub and shower walls, wiping down faucets and even occasionally cleaning your shower head (yes, you should be doing this – and often!).
So what is the deal with biofilm formation in the bathroom – is it inevitable? Well, yes and no. Biofilms and bacteria in general love a moist, damp environment, putting the bathroom at greater risk to begin with. Fortunately, there are ways to significantly reduce your exposure to biofilms in the place where you go to get clean.
Before we get into the tips that do work, let’s take a closer look at the product that many people turn to as a solution for biofilm formation in the shower: antimicrobial shower heads.
Antimicrobial shower heads: more harm than good?
Antimicrobial, or antibacterial shower heads, are marketed as a one-stop solution for biofilm, mold, mildew and even low pressure showers caused by clogged shower nozzles. The trick, they claim, lies in antimicrobial technology: a synthetic ingredient either infused throughout or coating the nozzles themselves. Sounds great in theory, but does it work?
Triclosan and other antimicrobial agents
The 1980s saw a major boom in the use of antibacterial agents. What began with hand soap quickly expanded to include several dozen product categories by the mid 1990s. Today, there are more than 700 categories that incorporate antimicrobial agents into their products.
One of the key antibacterial agents introduced into hospitals in the late 1970s was Triclosan. Originally used as a pesticide, it was eventually added to a variety of consumer goods – from deodorant and toothpaste to shower curtains and baby wipes.
After decades of work on the part of environmental advocacy groups, the FDA finally banned Triclosan in 2016. In all the time it was used, there was no definitive evidence suggesting it was safe OR effective in household settings.
So when antibacterial shower heads talk about antimicrobial technology, they are referring to one or more antimicrobial chemicals added to the shower nozzles. While Triclosan is on its way out, environmental groups are concerned that the agents replacing it (and the 17 other antimicrobial chemicals also included in the ban) aren’t any safer, much less any more effective, than Triclosan.
The introduction of antibacterial agents into healthy households in general has come under fire with the rise of “superbugs” – increased bacterial resistance and mutation resulting from harmful bacteria being overly exposed to antibacterial chemicals. Which brings us back to the question: do antimicrobial shower heads prevent biofilm formation?
The lack of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy or safety of these products makes antimicrobial shower heads a solution for biofilm prevention that we can’t recommend. So let’s take a look at the actionable steps and products that will make a difference:
Deep cleaning your shower head and shower hose
When you step into the shower and turn it on, you’re expecting the rush of water but you’re probably not expecting a cloud of aerosolized bacteria:
@denverskindoc #stitch with @sidneyraz I had never known this until this year! Do you clean your shower head?! 🚿 #showerhead #biofilm #todayilearned #iwishiknew #showerheadclean #dermatology #seborrheicdermatitis #bacteria #opportunisticinfection ♬ original sound - Dr. Scott Walter | Derm
Getting into a consistent shower head cleaning routine is one of the best ways to prevent biofilm formation. Don’t worry, it’s not as involved as it sounds. And in a few months, you’ll start craving that feeling of knowing every part of your shower head – inside and out – is completely bacteria-free.
The simplest method is to clean your shower head with white vinegar. Completely remove the shower head from the shower arm and submerge it into vinegar for at least an hour:
For more tips (including what cleaning products to avoid!), check out our article “How To Clean Your Shower Head And How Often You Should Do It”.
Remember that if you have a handheld shower head, bacteria can also thrive inside of the shower hose. To eliminate any biofilm buildup, follow the same method of removing the hose entirely and soaking it in vinegar.
If your shower hose is looking a little worse for wear, check out our “Expert Tips For Deep Cleaning Your Shower Hose” and learn everything you need to know to return it to all its shining glory.
The benefits of all metal shower heads
For handheld shower head lovers, this applies to the shower hose as well. High-quality stainless steel is best for your health, wallet, and the planet. The inner tubing material is also important to consider – at HammerHead Showers®, we’ve chosen hygienic silicone in place of the typical PVC or EPDM (a synthetic rubber roofing material) used by other brands.
Why silicone? PVC has been under scrutiny in Europe since as early as 2000, with chemical experts urging the phasing out and complete ban of PVC by 2030. High-quality silicone, however, is non-leaching and resistant to temperature extremes, with a durability that decreases opportunities for pathogenic bacteria growth – making it an ideal material for shower hose tubing and diminishing biofilm formation!
Preventing bacteria with a shower filter
What if we told you that you can remove bacteria before it ever makes it to the shower head? That’s exactly what happens when you filter shower water.
Shower head water filters are quickly becoming one of the most popular bathroom accessories, and for good reason. These simple but effective compact filtration systems combat the toxic hazards posed by chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants in our municipal water supplies, including biofilm building bacteria.
How does a shower head filter work?
Inline shower filters attach directly between the shower arm and the shower head. Using one or more types of filtration media, shower filters target contaminants by neutralizing or trapping them before the water reaches the shower head and sprays out.
The type and amount of filtration media determines whether or not a shower head filter is effective – not how many stages there are. That’s why our HammerHead Showers® Shower Head Filter is packed with 450 grams of KDF 55 and Calcium Sulfite: the only science-backed filtration media with proven results for tackling bacteria, chlorine, and heavy metals.
Our proprietary blend maximizes contaminant removal without affecting your water pressure. The universal housing is compatible with most shower heads and made from durable, lead-free brass for a long-term solution to your filtration needs that won’t need replacing in a year or two.
Protect yourself from biofilm formation
With the right products and routines, reducing the impact of biofilm formation in the shower doesn’t have to be overwhelming or complicated. You can shower confidently knowing that getting clean doesn't mean compromising your health in the process.
Thousands of people are discovering the importance of buying shower heads and accessories made from safe materials that deliver clean, filtered shower water. Are you ready for a lifetime of better showers? Upgrade your shower head setup to all metal and get scientifically proven results with our durable shower head filter today!
FAQs
Who should worry about biofilm formation in shower heads?
Bacteria in shower heads is not ideal for anyone to inhale or absorb. The people most at risk for serious illness are: those with compromised immune systems, smokers, drinkers, as well as cancer and transplant patients.
How do I prevent bacteria in the shower?
The best way to prevent bacteria and biofilm formation in the shower is by investing in a high-quality shower head filter and regularly cleaning the shower head, the shower hose, and all surfaces in the shower. Opt for natural cleaning supplies to avoid exposure to the toxic chemicals commonly found in commercial household cleaners.
What kills biofilm on surfaces?
Strong disinfectants like vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are effective at removing biofilms from surfaces. Avoid using alcohol – studies indicate biofilm bacteria have a high resistance to it (in some cases, alcohol was even shown to increase biofilm formation!).