How to Clean and Maintain a Hot Tub

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Draining your hot tub, clearing its filters, and more
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Lounging in your hot tub is meant to be a luxurious, relaxing experience, but a grimy dip can quickly put a damper on your day. Keeping your hot tub clean and sparkling is a cinch once you know how it’s done, and we’ll show you how! From draining the tub to scrubbing the interior and refreshing the filters, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Then, we’ll explain how to maintain your newly cleaned hot tub so that it’s always ready for a warm soak.

Things You Should Know

  • Turn off the hot tub and drain the water using the water release valve, or by submerging a water pump attached to a hose.
  • Scrub the interior of the tub with a hot tub cleaning solution and a sponge. Remove the filters, then rinse and wash them with chlorine solution.
  • Reinstall the filters and fill the tub with water, then sanitize the new water with chlorine shock solution and a pH balancing kit.
Part 1
Part 1 of 5:

Draining Your Hot Tub

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  1. Hot tubs run at a temperature where various molds, bacteria, and other organisms can flourish in the inner workings. If you replace all the water without flushing the lines first, you risk contaminating the new water. Keep your tub free of microscopic visitors by circulating hot tub line flush through the pipes, a process called "flushing the lines," to eject and cleanse bacteria and gunk. [1]
    • Application and cleaning procedures vary by product, so follow the instructions on the line flush packaging. Generally, add the flush directly to the water in the tub while it’s running for a period of time indicated in the instructions, usually around 15 minutes.
    • Lines that have buildup can result in decreased jet pressure, cloudiness in the water, or increased pressure (and strain) on your pump motor. Flushing your lines helps your tub run smoothly and efficiently.
  2. Forgetting to cut power to your tub could result in its pump kicking on when there's not enough water, which could do damage to the motor of your hot tub pump and filter mechanism. [2] To make sure that your tub is completely off, find your fuse box and flip the breaker for the circuit that's supplying it power to the "OFF" position.
    • Turning off the circuit breaker as well as switching your tub off prevents others from accidentally turning it on if you take a break when cleaning. A damaged pump can be an expensive and unnecessary expense.
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  3. Consult your hot tub owner’s manual for the best way to drain your particular tub. If your tub has a drain spigot on the bottom, simply open the spigot, or attach a garden hose to the spigot to drain the hot tub into a basin or away from the tub. [3] Or, use a submersible pump attached to a garden hose to manually remove the water.
    • Many manufacturers recommend leaving the foot-well of your tub full of water so that the pump and other parts remain submerged, avoiding damage.
    • If flushing your lines has released a cloudy discharge into the water, completely empty your hot tub of water. After doing so, rinse your tub with a hose to remove any remaining line particles. Then refill the foot-well of your tub, if necessary.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 5:

Scrubbing the Tub’s Surfaces

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  1. Specially formulated hot tub cleaners easily cut through grime and also protect the shell of your tub from damage that can be caused by abrasive particles in other cleaners. Or, mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water for a DIY solution. [4] Spray down the interior of your tub with a hose to moisten it, and then scrub all over the interior of the tub with your cleaner and a rag or sponge.
    • Acrylic hot tub shells are resistant to buildup and germ aggregation. If your tub has an acrylic shell, you may be able to clean your hot tub with a mild, general-purpose bathroom cleaner.
    • For more thorough cleaning, mix a batch of chlorine solution that is 50 parts per million (ppm). Create this mixture simply by mixing ¼ teaspoon of di-chlor into 5 gallons (19 L) of water. [5]
    • After cleaning the inner shell of your hot tub, thoroughly rinse it out and wipe it down with an old towel. Leaving cleaner residue can affect the chemical balance of your hot tub, which may hurt your water clarity or create an environment where mold or bacteria could grow.
  2. Some dirtiness in your hot tub can be most effectively cleaned by the use of specific cleaning agents. For example, add baking soda to a sponge while scrubbing to help bust gunk and organic goo. The extra abrasion of baking soda in addition to its cleaning properties helps the sponge cut through the dirtiness, but is gentle enough that it should leave your acrylic shell unaffected. [6]
    • Dissolve white streaks or mineral deposits with a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water. Simply apply the vinegar/water solution to the affected area with a sponge or rag and scrub or wipe it clean.
  3. If your hot tub’s exterior is made of wood, use a specially-formulated wood cleaner to scrub it with a rag, then rinse it down with a hose. [7] Or, sprinkle some baking soda onto a sponge to scrub plastic or acrylic exteriors. Then, wipe down the exterior of the hot tub cover with vinyl cleaner and protectant .
    • Apply olive oil to sap or pitch that has gotten on your hot tub or hot tub cover. Rub the oil into the stained area until the sap/pitch begins to break up, then wipe the surface clean with a rag, mild soap, and water.
    • Clean the underside of the hot tub cover by taking the cover off the tub and spraying it with a hose. Specialty cleaners aren’t needed for this side of the cover.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 5:

Removing and Cleaning the Filters

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  1. The filters are often accessible through an access panel or cabinet located around your pump. Some filters may require you to unscrew or unfasten catches that hold the filter casing in place. Take a picture of the filter assembly before you take it apart so you know how it's supposed to look when fully assembled [8]
    • Scrub the inside of your filter cabinet with your tub cleaner or a 50 ppm di-chlor/water solution, made by ¼ teaspoon of di-chlor into 5 gallons (19 L) of water, to bust bacteria that may surround the filter.
  2. Spray the filters off with your garden hose, which removes most residue from the filter. Don’t use a brush on your filter, which might further embed dirt or debris. Then, soak the filters in a large container with an oil-cutting filter cleaning solution for at least an hour. Consult the instructions on the packaging for proper amounts.
    • After, soak the filter(s) in a 50 ppm chlorine solution for 2-3 hours to finish disinfecting, then rinse them off again with a garden hose.
  3. This may be as easy as sliding the filter(s) into a coupling and pressing the covering panel back in place, but you may need to consult the picture you took of the filter fully assembled for more complicated designs. Be sure that all necessary parts and fasteners are in place and secure. [9]
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Part 4
Part 4 of 5:

Refilling Your Hot Tub

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  1. Run the water you are adding to your tub through the filter(s) first. Place your hose inside the well of your filter housing so that the water flows through the filter(s) of your tub, into its lines, and finally into the reservoir of the tub. [10] Fill the tub until the water reaches the recommended fill line.
  2. If you turned off the circuit breaker for your hot tub, set this to "ON" before reactivating your tub. [11] Allow your hot tub to run for 5-10 minutes while you listen to the pump/filter for any odd noises. These can be indicators that you've improperly reinstalled the filter or haven't fastened the catches holding it in place properly.
    • Also, turn off all the air valves of your hot tub. This will prevent your hot tub from aerating too much when you treat your hot tub water.
  3. The recommended combination for your hot tub will vary according to your model. Generally, first shock the water (killing remaining bacteria) with a shock treatment (according the packaging instructions). Then, test and, if need be, lower the pH of the tub with a pH kit. Finally, test the chlorine levels with a chlorine test strip, and lower the chlorine levels if they exceed 3-6 ppm. [12]
    • Cover your newly cleaned hot tub after adding your treatment chemicals and wait the time designated on the treatment instructions for the chemicals to disperse—usually around 1-2 hours.
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Part 5
Part 5 of 5:

Maintaining Your Hot Tub

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  1. Keep an eye on the water in your hot tub and assess it once every 7 days to maintain the tub . If it appears cloudy or is developing a film on the surface, it’s time for a thorough cleanse. [13] Also test the chlorine and pH levels—in most cases, you only need to add a chlorine or bromine tablet to the hot tub once a week to keep the water clean and sparkling.
    • Never mix treatments that are not specifically indicated as compatible. Using the wrong mix of water treating chemicals can result in serious danger. [14]
  2. The filter is intentionally designed to catch the grime and debris from your tub, so clean your filter at least once a month to help it do its job. If you use your hot tub frequently, like every day or every other day, clean the filter every 2 weeks. A clean filter not only ensures proper hot tub function, it also prolongs the life of your filters. [15]
    • Also, replace the filter completely at least once a year. An old filter won’t clean the tub’s water as efficiently or thoroughly as a fresh one.
    • Schedule a professional inspection of your hot tub once a year by contacting the manufacturer, if you can. This helps you identify damaged or weathered parts before they fail completely.
  3. Most acrylic shells are resistant to bacteria, mold, and other kinds of buildup. However, draining and scrubbing down your hot tub 4-5 times a year prevents buildup before it becomes thick and difficult to remove. [16] If you use your tub regularly, drain and scrub it every 2-3 months.
  4. The outside part of the hot tub cover is the most exposed to sunlight and the elements, so it's prone to collecting things like dirt and sap. Wipe down the cover at least once per month. If you like, coat the outside of the cover with a thin layer of vinyl protectant spray to increase its durability.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    Can you use bleach to clean a hot tub?
    Michelle Driscoll, MPH
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Michelle Driscoll is the Owner of Mulberry Maids, which is based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With five years of experience, her business specializes in cleaning homes and small offices. She holds a Masters in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
    Michelle Driscoll, MPH
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Expert Answer
    It is safe to use bleach to clean your hot tub. However, it is important you do not mix bleach with vinegar, as they can create a toxic gas. Be sure to always provide a thorough rinse of the tub before and after using bleach as a cleaning product. Also, only use bleach to clean a drained out hot tub.
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  • Question
    What should you use to clean the inside of a hot tub?
    Michelle Driscoll, MPH
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Michelle Driscoll is the Owner of Mulberry Maids, which is based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With five years of experience, her business specializes in cleaning homes and small offices. She holds a Masters in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
    Michelle Driscoll, MPH
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Expert Answer
    You can either purchase a specially formulated hot tub cleaner from your local pool supply store, which will easily cut through any built up grime or you can use a homemade solution of 4 parts water with 1 part vinegar. Use a soft rag or sponge to scrub the inside of the tub until all grime is removed. Always be sure to rinse out wipe down the hot tub after it has been cleaned to remove any cleaning chemicals from your tub.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    What is the best way to clean a hot tub?
    Michelle Driscoll, MPH
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Michelle Driscoll is the Owner of Mulberry Maids, which is based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With five years of experience, her business specializes in cleaning homes and small offices. She holds a Masters in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
    Michelle Driscoll, MPH
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Expert Answer
    If your hot tub is in need of a good deep cleaning, you want to start with flushing your lines. You can find a line flushing product at your local pool supply store. Be sure to turn off the power of the hot tub before draining the water from your tub. You can then use a hot tub cleaner to clean the inside of the tub or use a solution made from 4 parts water to 1 part vinegar. Lastly, remove and clean your filters before refilling and re-treating your clean hot tub!
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      Tips

      • To more quickly and easily clean your filters, run the filters twice through the dishwasher with your usual dishwasher detergent and the heat/drying cycle turned off. Check your filter’s manual to ensure it can be machine washed. [17]
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      • Having an extra filter on-hand lets you use the tub even while the current filter is being cleaned.
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      Warnings

      • A 50 ppm dichlor/water solution may irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs. Wear gloves, eye protection, and use long-handled brushes to prevent irritation.
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      • Remember to use mild cleaning agents, not abrasive cleaners, which can scratch your acrylic shell or dull its finish. Any gentle bathroom cleaner will work best.
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      Things You'll Need

      Draining the Hot Tub

      Cleaning the Tub and Filter

      Refilling the Hot Tub

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21399681/how-to-clean-hot-tub
      2. ↑ https://strongspas.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Strong-Spas-Manual2020sm.pdf
      3. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21357245/how-to-drain-a-hot-tub
      4. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21399681/how-to-clean-hot-tub
      5. ↑ https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/health/environmental-health/healthy-communities/water-recreation/~/media/depts/health/environmental-health/documents/water-recreation/spa-hot-tub-safety-guidelines.ashx
      6. ↑ https://backyardscape.com/how-to-clean-a-hot-tub-that-has-been-sitting/
      7. ↑ https://wellissussex.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Hot-Tub-Hand-Book_Wellis_Sussex2.pdf
      8. ↑ https://kingcounty.gov/depts/health/environmental-health/healthy-communities/water-recreation/~/media/depts/health/environmental-health/documents/water-recreation/spa-hot-tub-safety-guidelines.ashx
      9. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21399681/how-to-clean-hot-tub
      1. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21399681/how-to-clean-hot-tub
      2. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21399681/how-to-clean-hot-tub
      3. ↑ https://kingcounty.gov/depts/health/environmental-health/healthy-communities/water-recreation/~/media/depts/health/environmental-health/documents/water-recreation/spa-hot-tub-safety-guidelines.ashx
      4. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21399681/how-to-clean-hot-tub
      5. ↑ https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/health/environmental-health/healthy-communities/water-recreation/~/media/depts/health/environmental-health/documents/water-recreation/spa-hot-tub-safety-guidelines.ashx
      6. ↑ https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/health/environmental-health/healthy-communities/water-recreation/~/media/depts/health/environmental-health/documents/water-recreation/spa-hot-tub-safety-guidelines.ashx
      7. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pools/21399681/how-to-clean-hot-tub
      8. ↑ https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/health/environmental-health/healthy-communities/water-recreation/~/media/depts/health/environmental-health/documents/water-recreation/spa-hot-tub-safety-guidelines.ashx

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before you empty your hot tub for cleaning, run a special cleanser through the lines to remove any mold or bacteria. Once the lines are clean, turn off the power to the hot tub, then drain the tub according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wipe down the surface of the hot tub with a specially-formulated hot tub cleaner, then rinse the shell completely and wipe it down with a towel. Remove your filter and run it through your dishwasher, then clean the inside of your filter cabinet with the hot tub cleaner. Reinstall the filters and refill your hot tub, then enjoy. If you want to learn more, like how to refill your hot tub properly and maintain it, keep reading the article!

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