Replacing your shower head can help you save water and have beauty benefits. However, there are so many products out there that many people may not know which one to choose. So, this time, for those who are thinking about replacing their shower head, we will explain the points you should check in advance, the advantages and disadvantages of replacing it, and how to choose the best shower head.
We will also introduce recommended products categorized by type: "Beauty Effects (Microbubbles/Ultrafine Bubbles)," "Water Saving/Money Saving," and "Water Purification Switching/Chlorine Removal," so please read to the end.
- [Latest 2025] Shower head trends | What are microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles?
- Can I replace my shower head at home? Two things to check
- 3 benefits of replacing your shower head
- 3 Disadvantages of Replacing Your Shower Head
- How to choose the best shower head
- [Beauty Effects (Microbubbles/Ultrafine Bubbles)] 5 Recommended Shower Heads and Shower Head Items
- [Water saving/money saving] 3 recommended shower heads
- [Water Purification Switching/Chlorine Removal] 3 Recommended Shower Heads and Shower Head Items
- Consider replacing your shower head with a new one
[Latest 2025] Shower head trends | What are microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles?
Among the many shower heads available, the ones that are gaining particular popularity at the moment are "fine bubble" shower heads, which are expected to have beauty benefits.
There are two types of fine bubbles: "microbubbles" and "ultrafine bubbles." "Microbubbles" are bubbles with a diameter of less than 100 μm and greater than 1 μm (=0.001 mm), while "ultrafine bubbles" are even smaller, with a diameter of less than 1 μm.
The appeal of these "microbubbles" and "ultrafine bubbles" is their powerful cleansing power. The ultra-fine bubbles penetrate into pores, adsorbing
and removing dirt, and the hot water penetrates the skin, providing a high moisturizing and heat-retaining effect, leaving the skin feeling moisturized even after bathing.
Can I replace my shower head at home? Two things to check
When considering replacing your shower head, you should first check whether your shower head can be replaced and which manufacturer's shower
head will fit your shower hose. We will introduce what you should check in detail below.
1. Is the shower head replaceable?
There are two types of shower heads: one with a separate hose and one with an integrated hose. Of these, the separate type can be replaced. Basically, you can easily attach and detach the shower head by simply turning it.
On the other hand, with an integrated shower head, you cannot remove the shower head from the hose. If you want to change the shower head,
you need to replace the entire shower hose. Make sure to check the type of shower head in advance so that you don't end up saying, "I bought
a shower head but it doesn't work..."
2. What manufacturer makes your shower?
The shower head may be replaceable as is or may require a special adapter, which varies by manufacturer. Before purchasing a new shower head,
check the manufacturer of the shower head you are currently using. The manufacturer name and model number are written on the part of the shower head that you hold.
Models made by TOTO, KAKUDAI, LIXIL, SANEI, and INAX are often interchangeable, so they can be used even if the manufacturer is different. Some
products can be replaced by attaching the included adapter to the shower head.
Also, you can generally replace shower heads made by the same manufacturer without any problems. If you are unsure which one to choose, it is best to choose the same manufacturer as the shower head you are currently using.
Please note that shower heads from overseas are made to different standards than those in Japan, so they may not be able to be installed. Sometimes they can be installed using an adapter, but in some cases you will need to replace the entire hose, so be careful.
3 benefits of replacing your shower head
The main benefits of replacing your shower head are water conservation and money saving, beauty benefits, and water purification and chlorine
removal. We will introduce the specific benefits.
1. Save water and save money
The first benefit of replacing your shower head is the water-saving effect. Water-saving shower heads increase water pressure by making the holes
smaller and fewer, and reduce the amount of water used. You can expect to save about 20-60% more water than a regular shower head,
and depending on the type and usage conditions, you may be able to save more than 10,000 yen a year.
In addition, by reducing the amount of water used, you can also reduce your electricity and gas bills for boiling water.
2. You can expect beauty benefits
Some shower heads generate microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles. These microbubbles lift and wash away dirt that is stuck in the pores of the skin and scalp, so you can expect beauty benefits. If you are particular about your skin and hair care, you should consider replacing your shower head.
3. Purify water and remove chlorine
If your shower head has a water purification function, it can remove the residual chlorine contained in tap water. Using water with the residual chlorine removed will reduce damage to your skin and hair. Replacing your shower head is recommended not only for those who want to take care of their skin and hair, but also for those with sensitive skin who find the shower irritating.
3 Disadvantages of Replacing Your Shower Head
There are some disadvantages to shower heads that you should be aware of before replacing them. The three main ones are "small amount of water/
tepid water," "price," and "need to replace the cartridge."
1. Water-saving type: You may notice a small amount of water and lukewarm water.
Water-saving shower heads use less water, so some people may find it insufficient.
In addition, hot water may not come out, or it may feel lukewarm even if it does. If hot water does not come out, it may be that the water heater is not reaching the minimum operating water volume, and in some cases the shower head may need to be replaced. We recommend checking the water
heater before purchasing a shower head.
The reason why the water feels lukewarm is related to the size of the water droplets coming out of the holes in the shower head. The water droplets
coming out of a water-saving shower head are small, so the surface area that comes into contact with the air is large, causing the water to cool. If the water feels cold, try setting the temperature higher.
2. Beauty type: High price
Products that claim to have beauty benefits, including the trendy fine bubble shower head, tend to be in the higher price range. While a regular
shower head costs around a few dozen dollars, fine bubble shower heads start at a few hundreds of dollars. Prices vary from cheap to expensive, but
those that cost 300 dollars or more seem to have more functionality and beauty benefits. Even if the initial investment is high, you may realize results
that are worth more than the price in the long run.
3. Water purification switching/chlorine removal type: Cartridge replacement required
Shower heads with water purification and chlorine removal filters water by passing it through a cartridge that contains calcium sulfite and activated
carbon. The cartridge wears out with each use, so it needs to be replaced regularly, about once a month or once every few months. When purchasing
a shower head with water purification and chlorine removal, keep the running costs in mind.
How to choose the best shower head
From here, we will explain how to choose the best shower head. We have summarized the points you should check when choosing a shower head,
so please refer to it.
How to Choose (1) Choose by Water Pressure
When choosing a shower head, check the water pressure. For example, if you are concerned about dirt on your scalp or hair, or if you want
a refreshing washing experience, we recommend choosing a product with strong water pressure.
On the other hand, if you want to reduce irritation to the skin, we recommend a product with low water pressure, such as a mist type. Models that
allow you to switch the water pressure are convenient because you can change the strength of the shower according to the situation.
How to Choose (2) Choose by Weight
When choosing a shower head, be sure to check the weight. When you use the shower, the water flow and pressure can make the shower head feel
heavy. If you are concerned about the burden caused by the weight or if you spend long periods in the shower, it is best to choose a lightweight
product.
How to Choose (3) Choose Based on Ease of Maintenance
It is also recommended to choose a shower head based on how easy it is to clean. If you continue to use a shower head for a long time, the holes will become clogged with small debris, sebum, and limescale. If you leave it without cleaning, the holes in the shower head will become clogged, causing
poor hot water flow and mold to grow, so be careful. If you choose a model that can be easily cleaned without special tools, you will be able to
continue using it comfortably and easily.
Tip (4) Check if the angle can be adjusted
When choosing a shower head, check whether it has an adjustable angle. If you choose a product with an adjustable angle, you can adjust the area
where the water jet hits as you like. It is also recommended for those who value efficiency, as you can wash your whole body while the shower is
hanging on the hook.
Tip (5) Check whether the water heater has a button to turn it off
Another thing to check when choosing a shower head is whether or not it has a button to stop the water. If the model has a water stop function,
you can frequently stop the water, which will lead to water conservation. In addition, you can turn the water on and off without turning off the faucet, which is convenient when washing your head or body.
Click here for detailed information on how to replace shower heads and hoses, as well as precautions to take.
[Beauty Effects (Microbubbles/Ultrafine Bubbles)]
From here, for those who are thinking, "I'm thinking about replacing my shower head, but I don't know which one to buy...", we will introduce
recommended shower heads and shower head items divided into "water saving/money saving", "beauty effect (microbubbles/ultra-fine bubbles)", and "water purification switching/chlorine removal". We have also picked up reviews from people who have used them, so be sure to check them out.
Fine Bubble Mist Shower: Gentler than hand washing
SANEI Fine Bubble Mist Shower Mitos PS3063-81XA-CMP
If you are looking for a shower head that is gentle on the skin, we recommend the Fine Bubble Mist Shower Mitos. This shower head is equipped with ultra-fine bubble mist, and is popular because it is gentle on the skin while still removing dirt from every corner.
Renew your bath time with [Bolina Avanti]
Tanaka Metal Works, Bollina Avanti TK-7200
The Bolina Avanti is a popular item that comes with two modes: beauty mode and powerful mode. The beauty mode produces approximately
100 million ultra-fine bubbles per cc, providing beneficial effects for the skin and hair, such as moisturizing and cleaning pores.
The powerful mode uses a unique technology called the "Mix Jet Method" that sprays a large amount of air at high speed. The voluminous water flow provides a refreshing washing experience and thoroughly cleanses dirt from the body and scalp. Another attractive feature is that the two modes can
be easily switched with the push of a button.
Ultra-fine bubbles and ultra-fine water flow [SANEI Ultra-fine Bubbles Rainy Metallic]
|
SANEI Ultra Fine Bubble Rainy Metallic PS3163-81XA-CDP |
The ultra-fine bubbles of ultra-fine bubbles penetrate deep into pores and wrinkles, gently washing away dirt from the skin and scalp. The ultra-fine
bubble generator is built into the back of the shower plate, so you can enjoy an ultra-fine bubble shower without interfering with the design and with a clean look.
[Water saving/money saving]
A cost-effective shower head [Rainy Basic]
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SANEI Rainy Basic PS310-80XA-WA2 White |
If you are looking for a reasonably priced, cost-effective shower head, we recommend the Rainy Basic. This shower head is gentle on the skin, and it is said that using it can save about 40% of water. In addition, it has 227 holes with a diameter of 0.3 mm, so you can feel a high density of water while
showering, and it is also attractive that it can efficiently rinse away shampoo and conditioner.
[Water Purification Switching/Chlorine Removal]
A shower head developed for pre-washing before shampooing [SANEI MIGAMI Standard]
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SANEI MIGAMI Standard PS7060-80XA-MW2 |
SANEI MIGAMI Standard is recommended for those who want to take good care of their scalp. You can choose between two types of water pressure: "scalp water flow" and "normal water flow." By using the "scalp water flow" to thoroughly pre-wash before shampooing, dirt and sebum are removed
and the shampoo foams better. The built-in water purification cartridge removes residual chlorine from tap water, reducing damage to hair and scalp.
Removes residual chlorine for gentler water [LABO water purification head]
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LABO Water Purifier Head PS7963-80XAB-MW2 |
The LABO water purifier head can be switched between "purified water" and "raw water." By turning it on for purified water when bathing and turning
it off for raw water when cleaning, you can save on cartridges.
Consider replacing your shower head with a new one.
It is said that simply changing your shower head can help you save water and improve your beauty. If you are thinking, "I want to improve my hair and skin care" or "I want to save on water bills," why not consider replacing your shower head while referring to the selection methods and recommended products introduced here? Be sure to understand the advantages and disadvantages and find the item that suits you.