| |

The MOEN Attract Handheld Shower Head: A Practical Upgrade with a Few Caveats

As an environmental engineer who’s traded lab coats for a blog, I’m always on the lookout for home upgrades that are kind to the planet and my wallet. It’s a balancing act, right? We want to be responsible consumers, but let’s be honest, we also need things that work, feel good to use, and don't break the bank. That’s why I was intrigued by the MOEN Attract 6-Spray Wall Mount Handheld Shower Head (Model: 26009, typically priced around $46.98). It promises a customizable shower experience and the brand name alone suggests a certain level of quality. But does it deliver on both performance and a truly eco-conscious choice? Let’s dive in.

First Impressions and Build Quality: Solid, But Is It Built to Last?

Unboxing the MOEN Attract, the first thing that strikes you is its heft. It feels substantial, not like some flimsy plastic contraption that might crack after a few months. The chrome finish is bright and reflective, giving it a clean, modern look that should blend well with most bathroom fixtures. It certainly feels like a step up from the builder-grade shower head that was likely lurking in my guest bathroom.

The hose itself is a decent length – 69 inches, which is pretty standard. It has a bit of flexibility without being overly stiff. The mounting bracket, also in chrome, feels secure. Installation, as you’ll see later, is usually straightforward with MOEN products, which is a big plus for DIYers.

However, a closer inspection reveals that while the main body of the shower head and the bracket have a good weight to them, the internal components and some of the spray nozzles are made of plastic. This isn't entirely unexpected at this price point, but it does raise questions about long-term durability, especially in areas with hard water. We’ll get to that in the performance section, but for now, the initial impression is one of solid, dependable construction, albeit with the subtle hint that it's not a premium, all-metal fixture.

Deep Dive: Six Spray Settings – Do You Really Need Them All?

The main selling point of the MOEN Attract is its six different spray settings. This is where the customization comes in. You cycle through them with a lever on the side of the shower head. Let’s break down what MOEN claims these settings are for:

• Full Spray: This is your everyday, workhorse setting. It provides a consistent, wide coverage that’s great for rinsing off soap and shampoo quickly.
• Massage: This setting pulses the water stream, creating a more targeted, invigorating spray. It’s meant to feel like a gentle massage on your shoulders and back.
• Blast: A more focused, high-pressure stream. Think of it as a power wash for your hair or for quickly rinsing down the shower walls.
• Rinse: A softer, more diffused spray than the Full Spray, designed for a gentler rinse.
• Combo: This setting blends two or more of the above for a varied experience.
• Water Savers: This is the setting that caught my eye from an eco-engineering perspective. It’s designed to reduce water flow significantly while still providing adequate coverage for basic rinsing.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the 1.75 GPM (gallons per minute) flow rate. This is a water-saving standard, a significant reduction from older shower heads that could easily push 2.5 GPM or more. For me, this is a huge win from an environmental standpoint. Lower GPM means less water used, which translates directly to lower water bills and less energy needed to heat that water. The EPA’s WaterSense label, which MOEN products often carry, signifies that a product meets strict water efficiency and performance criteria. This 1.75 GPM rating is a key indicator that the Attract is designed with conservation in mind.

However, here's where the "it depends" factor comes into play with those six spray settings. While having options is nice, I found that in practice, I gravitated towards just two or three. The Full Spray is excellent for general use. The Water Savers setting is genuinely impressive for its efficiency – it provides enough flow to get clean without feeling like you're just trickling water. The Massage and Blast settings are fun novelties, but I rarely found myself using them for anything beyond a quick try-out. The Rinse and Combo settings felt a bit redundant with the Full Spray and Water Savers.

The mechanism for changing sprays is generally smooth, though I have heard anecdotal reports (and experienced myself on some MOEN models) that over time, the lever can become a bit stiff, especially if mineral deposits build up. This is a common issue with multi-function shower heads.

Performance in Real-World Use: Does It Get You Clean?

This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? Can a water-saving shower head still provide a satisfying shower? For the most part, yes, the MOEN Attract 1.75 GPM handheld does a commendable job.

The Full Spray setting is robust. It delivers a consistent stream that effectively rinses shampoo and conditioner from my hair (and I have fairly thick hair). It doesn’t feel weak or anemic, which was my initial fear with a lower GPM. The water pressure, while not earth-shattering, is perfectly adequate for a comfortable shower.

The Water Savers setting is where the engineering really shines. It’s designed to aerate the water – essentially mixing air into the stream. This gives the impression of more volume and pressure than you’re actually getting. It’s a clever trick that allows for significant water savings without sacrificing the feeling of a decent shower. I found myself using this setting quite a bit, especially on mornings when I just needed a quick rinse.

Now, for the potential drawbacks. If you’re someone who craves a high-pressure, pounding shower experience, this might not be the one for you, even on the “Blast” setting. The inherent limitation of the 1.75 GPM flow rate means you’re not going to get that spa-like, drenching deluge that some older, less efficient shower heads provide. It’s a trade-off for water conservation.

Another point to consider is maintenance. The rubber spray nozzles are designed to resist mineral buildup, and you can usually wipe them clean with your finger to dislodge any hard water deposits. However, if you live in an area with very hard water, you might find that the spray patterns become less defined over time, and you’ll need to soak the shower head in a vinegar solution periodically. This is true for most shower heads, but the complexity of six spray patterns means there are more potential points for clogging.

Installation was, as expected with MOEN, a breeze. It took me about 10 minutes. You simply unscrew the old shower head, wrap some plumber's tape (usually included or a few bucks at the store) around the shower arm threads, and screw on the new one. The handheld bracket attaches easily to the shower arm as well. No special tools required beyond what most people have in their toolbox.

Value Assessment: Is $46.98 a Smart Investment?

At around $46.98, the MOEN Attract 1.75 GPM handheld shower head sits in the mid-range of shower head pricing. It’s not the cheapest plastic option you’ll find, nor is it a high-end luxury fixture.

From a pure financial perspective, the upfront cost is offset by long-term savings. The 1.75 GPM flow rate means a family of four could potentially save hundreds, if not thousands, of gallons of water per year compared to a 2.5 GPM shower head. Multiply that by your local water rate, and the savings start to add up. Add to that the energy savings from heating less water, and the economic argument for this shower head becomes quite compelling.

Compared to similarly priced handheld shower heads, the MOEN Attract generally holds its own. Many competitors in this price bracket offer similar features, but MOEN's reputation for solid construction and reliable performance is a significant factor. You're paying for the brand name and the assurance that it’s likely to last longer than a no-name brand.

However, if your primary concern is the absolute lowest upfront cost, you can certainly find basic shower heads for under $20. But these often sacrifice build quality and water-saving features. Conversely, if you're looking for the ultimate in water efficiency or a truly luxurious shower experience, you might need to spend more on advanced models with features like integrated pause buttons or specialized spray technologies.

The value proposition here is strong for someone who prioritizes water conservation and a good balance of performance and price. It’s an investment that pays dividends over time, both environmentally and financially.

The Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the MOEN Attract Handheld Shower Head?

The MOEN Attract 6-Spray Wall Mount Handheld Shower Head (Model: 26009) is a solid, well-made shower head that offers a good balance of features, performance, and water efficiency for its price point. It’s a definite upgrade from most basic shower heads.

You should strongly consider buying this shower head IF:

• You are focused on saving water and energy: The 1.75 GPM flow rate is excellent and will lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills. The WaterSense certification is a good indicator of its eco-friendly design.
• You appreciate the flexibility of a handheld shower head: Whether for cleaning the shower, rinsing pets, or simply making showering easier for children or those with mobility issues, the handheld design is incredibly practical.
• You want a reliable brand with good build quality: MOEN has a reputation for producing durable fixtures, and this shower head feels substantial for its price.
• You enjoy having some spray options, but don't need a dozen: While I found many of the six settings to be superfluous, the core Full Spray and Water Savers are excellent.

You might want to skip this shower head OR consider alternatives IF:

• You absolutely crave high-pressure water flow: While adequate, this shower head is not designed for those who prefer a forceful, pounding shower. You may find it lacking in intensity compared to older, less efficient models.
• You live in an area with extremely hard water and are unwilling to perform regular maintenance: While the nozzles are somewhat resistant, significant mineral buildup can impact performance over time, requiring descaling.
• You are on a very tight budget and only need the most basic functionality: Cheaper, simpler shower heads exist, though they typically don't offer the same build quality or water-saving features.
• You are looking for the absolute pinnacle of eco-friendly design: While good, there are even more advanced shower heads on the market with features like integrated pause buttons that can save even more water during use.

Ultimately, the MOEN Attract 1.75 GPM handheld shower head is a smart choice for many households looking to make a practical, eco-conscious upgrade without breaking the bank. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t have to sacrifice performance entirely to be more responsible with our planet’s resources. Just be realistic about your expectations for water pressure, and you’ll likely be very happy with this versatile shower head.