Have you ever just wanted to let go of all your stress, step into a hot tub, and let the warm water soothe your body and mind?
But have you ever considered that this relaxing space might be quietly harboring bacteria and debris? Without proper cleaning, a hot tub can become a breeding ground for Legionella, E. coli, and even fungi—posing potential risks to your skin and respiratory system. Don’t worry—this article will guide you through a professional yet easy-to-follow cleaning process, ensuring every soak is safe and worry-free.
Content
Five Warning Signs Your Hot Tub Needs Cleaning
Four-Step Cleaning Process for Your Hot Tub
Maintenance Tips: From Reactive Cleaning to Preventive Care
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Five Warning Signs Your Hot Tub Needs Cleaning
A fixed cleaning schedule isn’t the only indicator. These five signs are all telling you it’s time to act:
Excessive foam or cloudy water: Indicates high levels of surfactants, body oils, and soap residue.
Strong odors: Often caused by the buildup of biofilm and bacteria.
Visible scale buildup: High TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) can lead to clogging.
Frequent use or long-term disuse: Both extremes can disrupt water balance
Chemicals becoming less effective: Suggests contaminants are interfering with sanitation.
Tip: If you’re wondering whether it’s time to clean, the answer is already yes.
Four-Step Cleaning Process for Your Hot Tub
The cleaning process can be broken down into four key stages, each essential to achieving a truly clean tub.
1.Preparation: Targeting the Invisible Contaminants
Before draining, add a line flush cleaner to pre-treat the plumbing system. Follow the product instructions and allow water to circulate for at least 20 minutes to break down biofilm and organic residues inside the pipes. Foam may appear on the surface—that’s a good sign it’s working.
Make sure the power is off before cleaning to avoid damage from dry operation.
2.Draining: Efficiently Removing Old Water
Choose from two common draining methods:
Garden hose drain: Cost-effective but time-consuming (about 1 hour).
Submersible pump: Fast and efficient, but leaves some residual water that should be removed using a wet/dry vacuum.
Environmental tip: If chlorine and other chemicals are minimal, you can drain water onto your lawn. Otherwise, dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
3.Cleaning: Covering the Filter, Shell, and Accessories
Once the tub is empty, take the opportunity for a deep clean:
Clean the filter: Soak in vinegar water or mild detergent overnight, then rinse thoroughly. Replace heavily soiled or damaged filters (at least once a year).
Clean the interior shell: Use a spa-specific cleaner. Avoid kitchen products that may leave harmful residues.
Use a soft cloth or non-scratch nylon brush to scrub hard-to-reach areas, including shell edges, water lines, and around the jets.
Don’t forget the pillows, light covers, spa cover, and outer shell. Rinse thoroughly to remove all cleaning agents.
4.Refilling: Bringing in Fresh, Clean Water
Before refilling, confirm the power remains off.
Use a hose filter to reduce water impurities.
Insert the hose into the filter compartment to help prevent airlock in the plumbing.
Once full, turn the power back on.
Water balancing steps:
Add sanitizers such as sodium dichlor, bromine, or chlorine granules.
Use test strips to check and adjust pH (recommended range: 7.2–7.8), total alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
If using well water or tap water with high metal content, be sure to add a metal sequestrant.
Maintenance Tips: From Reactive Cleaning to Preventive Care
Keeping your hot tub in peak condition doesn’t require constant deep cleaning—just smart, regular care:
Filter maintenance calendar: Check monthly, deep clean every three months, replace annually.
Quick water testing: Use test strips regularly to ensure water is balanced.
Seasonal care suggestions:
In winter, if the tub will be unused for a while, fully drain and dry it for storage.
In summer, with more frequent use, consider light maintenance every month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use kitchen cleaner to scrub the hot tub?
A: Not recommended. Kitchen cleaners may leave chemical residues that react poorly with sanitizers and compromise water quality.
Q: My filter is discolored but still passes water. Can I keep using it?
A: If it remains stiff, deformed, or has an odor even after cleaning, it’s best to replace it.
Q: Why does my skin itch after using the hot tub?
A: Likely due to water imbalance or leftover biofilm. Check pH and sanitizer levels, and clean the shell thoroughly.
Cleaning your hot tub may take a bit of effort, but it guarantees peace of mind with every soak. When you know the water is clean, the system is running smoothly, and the shell is spotless, that warm embrace of the water becomes a genuine moment of calm and healing.
So the next time you lower yourself into the tub, close your eyes—you’ll know you’re enjoying a space that’s been carefully maintained by your own hands.
