Make sure to remove the old thread tape and apply new before putting everything back together. It’s best to wrap the tape clockwise so that when you twist the arm back into the wall, you won’t unthread the pipe. 4. After soaking it a few hours or longer, take off the back of the shower head and remove the filter as described in the scrubbing method; use a toothpick if necessary to remove the last bits of residue from the spray nozzles.