You work hard all day, so you might look forward to a nice hot shower to relax the muscles and ease away the tension. Most people have some kind of stress, aches, or pains after a long day. Doctors, contractors, police officers, teachers, and even writers feel the strain.

With the notable exception of a certified mattress softness tester, most people benefit from a shower head massager. These nifty little bathroom accessories have the ability to ease tension, relax muscles, and even help with more serious chronic pain.

In the article below, you will find reviews on the ten best massaging shower heads. We will share the best features, dimensions, installation, and much more. Plus, there is a handy buyer’s guide at the end to give you some extra tips. So, what are you waiting for?

A Quick Comparison Of Our Favorites in 2024

Rating	Image	Product	Details
Best Overall		Waterpik	Six settings Durable Adjustable	CHECK PRICE
Best Value		AquaDance	Overhead or handheld Stainless steel hose Easy to install	CHECK PRICE
Premium Choice		ANZA	Fix settings Stainless steel hose Adjustable	CHECK PRICE
		Aqua Elegante	Good water pressure Water-saving option Self-cleaning	CHECK PRICE
		Hotel Spa	Two shower heads Six settings Eco mode	CHECK PRICE

The 10 Best Massage Shower Heads

1. Waterpik SM 653 CG Original Massage Shower Heads – Best Overall

Our favorite pick for a massaging shower head is the Waterpik SM 653 Original Massage Shower Head. This shower accessory comes in either 1.8 GPM or 2.5 GPM depending on your preference. You can use it as a handheld or overhead option, and it has 6 spray settings.

The Waterpik shower stream has a five-foot stainless steel hose that is easy to clean. It also has Optiflow Technology which allows maximum water flow and pressure. Plus, you can remove the restrictor if you prefer a higher water pressure.

This model comes in a chrome finish with a 3.25-inch in shower face and a 9.5-inch handle. It is easy to install and comes with all the parts you need. This massaging shower head has six water settings, plus it is adjustable. You can set it to your perfect angle, and it will not slide out of place. What’s more, it is durable and mineral build-up resistant. Overall, this is our favorite massaging showerhead available.

2. AquaDance 3312 Massage Shower Heads – Best Value

If you are looking for an affordable option, the AquaDance 3312 Massage Shower Head is for you. This option comes in either chrome, brushed nickel, or black. You can use it as a handheld or overhead nozzle, plus it features a 3.5-inch shower face with an easy-to-use level dial.

You will have the option of six shower settings that are guaranteed to soothe sore muscles. Plus, it has an angle adjustment feature to the face pointed in the right direction. There is also a five-foot stainless steel hose, and the entire structure is durable and will not develop mineral build-up.

If you prefer a higher-pressure shower, you can remove the flow restrictor. The AquaDance shower head is a 2.5 GPM, and it is easy to install. The only drawback to this option is the water pressure is not quite as strong as it is with our first option. Otherwise, this is the best massage showerhead for the money.

3. ANZA Massage Shower Heads – Premium Choice

If you are ready to spend a little bit more coin, the ANZA Massage Shower Heads is a good premium option. This model features six shower settings that are guaranteed to relax you. Available in either chrome or brushed nickel, you can use this as a handheld or overhead option.

The ANZA shower head features a 4.3-inch face, and a five-foot stainless steel durable hose. It also has 110 nozzles that provide great water pressure. There’s also a flip lever dial on the face that is easy to control, and switch modes.

The PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) construction of this shower head is durable and heat-resistant. The shower connection is adjustable, as well, for optimal position. What’s more, the face nozzles are resistant to mineral buildup, and it is 2.5 GPM. The only drawback is the installation is more difficult than our other two options, so far.

4. Aqua Elegante Massage Shower Head

The Aqua Elegante Massage Shower Head comes in chrome, brushed nickel, or oil-rubbed bronze. This model is high pressured, adjustable, and it has a mist feature. There are three shower settings along with two mixed modes, so you can find your perfect stream.

This shower head has a water-saving flow option, or you can remove the flow restrictor if you prefer a higher water pressure. It is a 2.5 GPM nozzle that is durable and will not rust. You can also take advantage of the self-cleaning face that is resistant to mineral buildup if you have hard water. Made of silicone, the Aqua is also self-cleaning.

Be aware, however, that this is not a handheld option. You can easily install this model, but keep in mind you do not have as many shower settings as you do with other options.

5. Hotel Spa 1440 Handheld Massage Shower Head

If you would like a hotel spa experience, this is the right shower choice for you. The Hotel Spa 1440 Handheld Massage Shower Head is equipped with two face/heads that are both 4 inches in diameter. Both offer fixed shower settings, and you can adjust both to you preferred angle.

With this model, you have one shower head that is handheld, and one overhead option that is stationary. This model has a three-way high-pressure system, and you can flip a switch to go from one shower head to the other.

The Hotel Spa shower head is adjustable and also features an anti-swivel lock, so you can position your shower head in your favorite spot. At 2.5 GPM, this model has great water pressure. You want to be aware, however, that this option can be harder to install. Also, although you are able to remove the flow restrictor, it can make the water pressure too hard.

Beyond that, you do have a five-foot stainless steel hose that has a durable construction. This option comes in a chrome finish that also has an eco-mode for saving water. Another downside to this model, though, is that it can have leaks in the connection to the water pipe.

6. Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Shower Head

If you suffer with hard water, the Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Shower Head is a good option for you. This wall-mounted model is a 2.5 GPM nozzle that has rubber spray spouts that offer five spray settings. You also get water-softening filter cartridges that will give you up to six months or 10,000 gallons of soft water.

Easy to install, this is a chrome-finished model that has a twist head adjustment. You can also swivel the nozzle at your convenience. Beyond that, the face and spouts are mineral build-up resistant, however, it is not as durable as some other options.

Another note to keep in mind is that the face of this option is smaller than others, and the overall water pressure is not strong. On the other hand, you are able to remove the flow restrictor if you wish to have a stronger water flow. As a final note, although the nozzle itself is easy to install, the cartridges can be more difficult.

7. Hydroluxe 1433 Handheld Massage Shower Head

The Hydroluxe 1433 Handheld Massage Shower head is a dual-face option that features two, four-inch shower faces with a three-way water diverter. This option comes in a chrome finish and has five shower settings for the overhead option and handheld.

Both shower faces are oversized for the spotlight effect, and it has one-click lever dial to control the settings. This option also has an anti-swivel lock adjustment, along with a five-foot stainless steel hose.  Beyond that, although you do not require any tools to install the Hydroluxe, it can be more difficult to get into place.

You will be able to use each shower head separately, or you can use them both together. You can also combine the settings for up to 24 combinations. Be advised, however, that the handle adjustment can tend to stick and be hard to move.

This is another 2.5 GPM model, that has a great water consumption. What’s more, the water pressure can be too harsh for some people. Also, this model features a pause button, although it does not completely stop the flow of water. Finally, it is difficult to remove the flow restrictor.

8. AquaBliss HS300 Massage Shower Head

If you prefer a longer hose handheld option, the AquaBliss HS300 Massage Shower Head is a good choice. It is a chrome-finished model that has a 6.5 foot no tangle hose and six massage combinations.  You can also use this model on low pressure or a gentle water-saving mode.

Unfortunately, one drawback of the AquaBliss is the hose is not durable and is prone to leaks. Also, although it does come with a wall mount that can be adjusted 360 degrees, the shower head tends to slip out of its holder easily. On a brighter note, however, this option is easier to install.

Something else you want to take note of is the material is made of plastic and is not as durable. The hose is a long enough to let it hit the ground, so that is also in danger of breaking. The AquaBliss is a 2.5 GPM nozzle that you can remove the flow restrictor from if you prefer. Lastly, be advised that the click-face flow adjustment can get stuck between positions and cause the water to spray erratically.

9. HO2ME Handheld Shower Head

Our number nine choice is the HO2ME Handheld Shower Head in chrome. This model comes complete with a 79-inch hose and is designed for homes that have a low water pressure.

The shower head features silicone rubber jet nozzles that are resistant to mineral buildup, and it is made of high-strength ABS engineering plastic. The handheld unit also has an adjustable bracket, although you should be advised that the bracket is tight and hard to move. Also, the handle easily falls off the wall attachment.

With only three shower settings, the water pressure on the HO2ME is not as strong as one would like. Also, the stainless steel hose gets tangled easily. At 5 GPM, this model actually uses a lot more water than is specified. Finally, be advised that this unit is hard to install, and it is difficult to remove the flow restrictor.

10. Cosystar 8541794926 Handheld Shower Head

Our last option is the Cosystar 8541794926 Handheld Shower Head. This is a chrome-style shower face that has six spray options that can be used as a handheld or overhead option. One of the drawbacks to this model, however, is that the overall construction is not durable including the handle that keeps it in place.

Although this is an adjustable sprayer, the ball mechanism is a very loose so the shower sprayer does not stay in place easily. Also, the water pressure is insufficient even with the flow restrictor removed. On a lighter note, this option does have an extra-long stainless steel hose, and it’s easy to install.

Something else to consider with this model is the click face is hard to adjust and can easily get stuck in place. Also, the shower head itself is prone to mineral buildup. Beyond that, the Cosystar Shower Head is a 2.5 GPM nozzle. Overall, however, this is our least favorite option for a massaging showerhead.

Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Massage Shower Heads

Important Things to Know

Before you rush out to purchase a massaging showerhead, there are some things you should know in order to make your purchase a better experience. For example, there are many features of a shower nozzle that you want to take into consideration. One of the main things that people are concerned with, however, is the water pressure the nozzle will produce.

Water Pressure

Each showerhead comes with two universal features. The first of those is a flow restrictor. This piece is going to limit the amount of water pressure that your shower head produces. With most models, you are able to remove the flow restrictor in order to have a stronger-pressured shower.

The second thing they all feature is a GPM level; which is the gallons per minute that the shower uses. Also known as the flow rate, this is a statistic that is federally mandated and cannot be above 2.5.  The GPM keeps showers and other faucets and nozzles from using too much water which could be considered wasteful.

When it comes to water pressure, most people walk a fine line between an acceptable amount of pressure and an acceptable amount of water consumption. Typically, finding an option that has an eco-friendly mode or a gentle stream is a benefit. You can use the softer streams for things like shaving, bathing children, brushing teeth, etc.

Handheld vs Overhead

There are two types of shower heads. They can either be a handheld version or an overhead option. A handheld version is going to have a post attached, and you will be able to take it out of the holder for more freedom of movement.

An overhead option is stationary and cannot be moved. For the most part, most people prefer to have a handheld option that can be used as an overhead shower head, as well. This gives them the option to use their nozzle hands-free and/or take it off the holder when needed.

Handheld options are good for bathing pets, children, shaving legs, etc. Keep in mind, however, you want to have a hands-free option for regular showering. When looking at a handheld version, make sure that you find one that has a durable hose, as this is the weakest part of the shower head. It is apt to get holes and leaks, as well.

Mineral Buildup

Mineral buildup is an issue that a lot of people deal with. It is caused by an excess amount of minerals in your town’s municipal water supply. Also known as hard water or hard water scale, it can build up in your pipes, faucets, and shower heads. Eventually, this will corrode your fixtures and cause low water pressure.

Many homeowners that deal with hard water put water softeners into place to combat the issue. If you do not have one of these water fixers, you can look for a shower head that is resistant to mineral buildup. Manufacturers use certain types of materials, such as silicon, in order to keep the nozzles on the shower head from building up with hard water scale. It will also stop the flow of water from becoming erratic and the water pressure from becoming low.

 Shopping Tips

Now that you have the basics out of the way, there are some other features that you want to consider before you decide upon a shower head. When in the market for a massaging bath nozzle, one of the most important features you want to look for is the different settings it offers, however, there are other things as well.

• Spray Settings: Different spray settings are going to be better suited for different people. Depending on the type of pain you are trying to eliminate, the type of spray settings you want can vary. For example, those who have muscle pain may prefer a stronger more streamlined water stream, while those who have arthritis or more chronic symptoms may prefer something gentler.
• Face size: The size of the face on the shower head can also make a difference in regards to the overall shower experience. Faces with a larger circumference tend to have a gentler stream but not always. That being said, smaller shower faces tend to have less versatility as far as spray settings and options.
• Adjustable: Almost all shower heads are going to be adjustable. What you want to look out for is a nozzle that is not too loose, so the shower head won’t slip out of place. It should also not be stiff, so you cannot position them correctly. Anti-swivel lock shower faces work well, as you are able to lock it into place where it is most comfortable.
• Installation:  The last but often forgotten about detail of a new showerhead is the installation. Oftentimes, modern models are easy to install and can be done quickly. However, many people find that having their shower head professionally installed to their main water supply makes the system more durable, have better water pressure, and have fewer overall leaks. Keep in mind, however, that not all shower heads are able to do this, so if this is something you would prefer, make sure your shower head has this option. Also, be advised that models that allow you to hardwire them in can be costlier.

There are many other things that you can take into consideration, including the appearance of the shower head. For example, you typically have the option of chrome, black, or nickel. There are many other options, as well, but these are the top details you should think about before purchasing.

Conclusion

We hope that you have enjoyed the reviews we have provided on the test best massaging shower heads.  It can be a daunting task to pick one out if you do not have all the details you need, so we hope this put you on the right track.

Overall, however, our favorite option is the Waterpik SM 653 CG Original Massage Shower Head. This model will give you all the luxury of a spa experience with the convenience of being at home. On the other hand, if you need a more cost-efficient option, you can go with the AquaDance 3312 Massage Shower Head that will give you all the bells and whistles for a less costly price.

Featured Image Credit: Chayatorn Laorattanavech, Shutterstock