There’s nothing quite like slipping into a warm, bubbling hot tub after a long day. But to truly enjoy the experience, your hot tub needs to stay clean, safe, and sparkling. Hot tubs can become breeding grounds for bacteria without regular maintenance, suffer from cloudy water, and develop unpleasant smells. Fortunately, keeping yours in top condition doesn’t have to be difficult.
Here are ten must-know cleaning tips to help you maintain a healthy, gleaming hot tub all year round.
1. Stick to a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Consistency is key when it comes to hot tub maintenance. Light cleaning, including testing water chemistry and wiping the shell, should be done weekly. A more thorough clean, including draining and refilling, is typically required every three to four months. Creating a simple schedule can help prevent grime from building up and keep your hot tub running efficiently.
2. Skim and Remove Debris Daily
Leaves, insects, and other bits of debris can easily find their way into your hot tub, especially if it’s located outdoors. Using a spa skimmer net or vacuum for a quick daily clean helps prevent the filter from becoming overloaded and keeps the water looking clear. This quick habit can make a big difference in overall cleanliness.
3. Clean the Filters Regularly
Your hot tub’s filter is essential for trapping dirt, oils, and debris. Rinse it thoroughly every week with a hose to remove surface grime, and give it a deep clean with a filter cleaner solution monthly. Depending on usage, most filters need replacing every 12 to 18 months. A clean filter improves water flow and helps the sanitiser do its job properly.
4. Check and Balance the Water Chemistry
Maintaining the right chemical balance in your hot tub water is crucial. Check levels of pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser (such as chlorine or bromine) at least twice a week. Ideally, pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8, with total alkalinity in the range of 80–120 ppm. This water care guide from BISHTA (the British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association) offers more details on safe hot tub water hygiene. Poor water chemistry can cause skin irritation, damage components, and reduce the effectiveness of disinfectants.
5. Drain and Refill Every 3–4 Months
Over time, hot tub water accumulates dissolved solids, oils, and other contaminants that filters alone cannot remove. Draining and refilling your hot tub every three to four months gives you a fresh start and helps maintain water clarity. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to drain the water and restart the system safely.
6. Use a Quality Hot Tub Cover
A well-fitting, insulated cover is one of your best defences against debris, dirt, and heat loss. It keeps out leaves, insects, and rainwater, and also prevents chemical evaporation. Make sure to clean the underside of the cover regularly to avoid mildew and mould buildup, and let it air out occasionally to prevent musty smells.
7. Wipe Down the Shell and Waterline
Scum and residue often collect around the waterline and inside the shell. Use a spa-safe cleaner and a soft, non-abrasive cloth to gently wipe down these surfaces weekly. Avoid household cleaners, which can disrupt water chemistry. Keeping the shell clean helps prevent stains and reduces the workload on your filtration system.
8. Shock the Water Weekly
Shocking the water involves adding a large dose of oxidiser to break down organic waste, such as sweat, body oils, and lotions. This keeps the water fresh and sanitiser levels stable. Choose either chlorine or non-chlorine shock treatments based on the sanitising system you’re using. Do this once a week, or more often if the tub sees heavy use.
9. Clean the Jets and Pipes
Even if your water looks clear, unseen build-up can occur within the pipes and behind the jets. Using a specialised plumbing cleaner before draining the tub helps flush out bacteria, biofilm, and grime. Run the jets for at least 15 minutes to ensure a thorough internal clean. Hot Tub Warehouse offers a range of jet and pipe cleaning products suitable for most spa systems.
10. Be Mindful of What Goes in the Tub
Everyone loves a relaxing soak, but be cautious about what enters your hot tub. Encourage bathers to rinse off before using the tub to remove sweat, lotions, and cosmetics. Avoid wearing freshly washed swimsuits that may still contain detergent. The fewer contaminants you introduce, the easier your hot tub is to keep clean.
Bonus Tip: Watch for Early Warning Signs
Foamy water, unpleasant smells, murkiness, or sluggish jets can all signal that your hot tub needs attention. Acting quickly can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Don’t ignore unusual changes – they’re often your hot tub’s way of asking for a clean!
A clean hot tub is not only more enjoyable but also safer and more energy-efficient. By following these simple yet essential tips, you’ll ensure your hot tub stays sparkling and inviting for every soak.
Got a favourite hot tub maintenance tip? Share it in the comments below! And if you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and check back whenever your tub needs a little extra TLC.