No one wants to soak in a hot tub full of murky water or mysterious grime. The whole point of a hot tub is to relax, not to wonder what’s floating next to you! Cleaning your hot tub is a core part of hot tub care and involves a few simple but important steps for each part, from the shell to the filter and the cover. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean a hot tub, how to keep the filter and cover spotless, and why regular maintenance is a must for the best water quality.
Table of Contents
How to Clean a Hot Tub: Step-by-Step
Keeping your hot tub fresh isn’t complicated, but following the right steps makes all the difference for long-term hot tub maintenance.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
1. Draining the Hot Tub
- Turn off the power to the hot tub.
- Attach a hose to the tub drain spout and let the water fully drain out.
- Double-check your owner’s manual for any specific draining instructions or line flush steps, especially for removing built-up contaminants.
- Syphoning is another option. Simply put a garden hose into the tub, turn on the water and start filling the tub. Then, turn off the water and disconnect the hose from the spigot and it will syphon out. This can be done simultaneously to the factory drain.
- Some customers choose to purchase a separate pump to evacuate the water, which makes it much faster.
2. Removing Debris
- Use a skimmer net to scoop out leaves, dirt, or floating debris.
- Wipe down any exposed surfaces as the water level drops to remove gunk or biofilm buildup. Especially at the water line.
3. Scrubbing the Hot Tub Shell
Most hot tubs have an acrylic shell, so you don’t want to use harsh cleaning products that might damage the finish.
- Use non-abrasive products or create a cleaning solution of water and white vinegar.
- Scrub the interior shell with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge, paying extra attention to water lines and biofilm buildup. We recommend a non-abrasive nylon scrubber.
4. Rinsing and Refilling
- Rinse the shell thoroughly to remove any leftover cleaner.
- Refill your hot tub with fresh, clean water. If you have a saltwater system, add the appropriate salt at this stage.
5. Balancing Chemicals
- Once refilled, test the water and add the appropriate chemicals to balance pH, calcium, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.
- Use the right sanitizer for your system, such as bromine or chlorine, to keep contaminants in check.
- Let the water circulate for at least 30 minutes and retest before use. Monitoring water chemistry is a key part of regular hot tub care.
How to Clean a Hot Tub Filter
A clean filter keeps your hot tub water crystal clear and your system running smoothly. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Filter Cleaning Instructions
- Turn off the hot tub and remove the filter.
- Rinse the filter with a garden hose, spraying between the pleats to remove debris.
- For a deeper clean, soak the filter overnight in a specialized filter cleaner or a diluted vinegar solution.
- Rinse thoroughly and let dry before reinserting.
- Put the filter back in place and turn the power back on.
Filter Maintenance Schedule
- Rinse weekly (if the hot tub is used often)
- Deep clean monthly
- Replace the filter every 12–18 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer
Types of Filters
- Cartridge Filters (most common; easy to remove and clean)
- Sand Filters (rare in hot tubs; usually found in pools)
- Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters (highly efficient but less common)
How to Clean a Hot Tub Cover
Keeping the cover clean prevents mildew, odors, and premature wear.
- Remove loose debris (leaves, dirt, etc.) with a soft broom or handheld vacuum.
- Wash the cover with a mild soap and water solution using a soft brush or cloth.
- Disinfect using a gentle solution (avoid bleach), then rinse thoroughly.
- Dry completely before placing it back on the tub.
How Often Should You Clean Your Hot Tub?
- Drain & deep clean: Every 3–4 months, or sooner for a used hot tub or high usage
- Line flush: Every drain cycle, or as recommended, to clear gunk and hidden contaminants
- Filter rinse: Weekly
- Filter deep clean: Monthly
- Cover wipe-down: Monthly (or as needed)
- Chemical check & balance: Every use and weekly for optimal water chemistry
- Salt water system check: Every time you refill (if applicable)
What Happens if I Skip Steps or Don’t Clean My Hot Tub?
Skipping routine hot tub cleaning and maintenance can lead to:
- Cloudy, unsafe water
- Bacteria and algae growth
- Equipment breakdowns and expensive repairs
- Bad odors and stains
- Shortened hot tub lifespan
- Exposure to dangerous contaminants or mineral buildup from unbalanced calcium or poor water chemistry
Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
- Chemical misuse: Overusing or underusing chemicals can damage equipment and harm users. Using improper chemicals can permanently damage your hot tub.
- Skipping steps: Neglecting the filter or cover affects water quality and system performance.
- Using abrasive materials: Scrubbing with rough sponges or harsh chemicals can scratch surfaces.
FAQs About How to Clean a Hot Tub
How long does cleaning a hot tub take?
A basic clean can take 1–2 hours, while a full drain, scrub, and refill usually takes half a day (including draining and refilling time).
Are there health risks if I don’t clean my hot tub?
Yes. Unclean hot tubs can harbor bacteria like Legionella or Pseudomonas, which can cause skin, ear, or respiratory infections.
Do I need specialized hot tub chemicals?
Yes. There are dedicated hot tub cleaners you should use to keep your spa clean. For proper hot tub care and safe water chemistry, you’ll need specialized hot tub chemicals (sanitizers like bromine, pH balancers, calcium increasers, and filter cleaners). Avoid using household products.
How often do I need to clean my hot tub?
Basic cleaning and water balancing should be done weekly; a deep clean every 3–4 months.
How long after I buy a new hot tub should I clean it?
Even a new hot tub should be flushed, drained, and thoroughly cleaned after installation to remove any factory residues and contaminants before your first soak.
Does JR Spas offer hot tub cleaning services?
Yes! JR Spas offers expert hot tub cleaning, filter replacement, and maintenance. Call us or request a free quote below.
How much does hot tub cleaning cost?
While DIY hot tub cleaning is possible and only requires time and the cost of supplies, many hot tub owners prefer using a professional service. Why? Professional hot tub cleaning services are often very affordable and save you hours of cleaning time each month. It’s not only convenient, but it can also help you avoid costly repairs.
JR Spas’ hot tub cleaners proudly serve the Granbury areas, including DeCordova, Pecan Plantation, Indian Harbor and beyond. Let our experts handle the job, so you can simply relax and enjoy your spa.
Time to Get Cleaned Up? Call JR Spas!
Keeping your hot tub clean isn’t just about looks–it’s about health, relaxation, and protecting your investment. Regular cleaning extends your hot tub’s lifespan, ensures safe soaking, and keeps the experience enjoyable.
Ready for a sparkling clean hot tub? Call (817) 579-7727, request a free quote, or visit us in person at 4500 Fall Creek Hwy, Granbury, TX 76049.
