Hot Tub Cleaning Guide: Best Methods for Crystal Clear Water

A hot tub is a great way to unwind, relax, and enjoy some personal time. But nothing ruins the experience like dirty, cloudy water. Over time, dirt, oils, and bacteria build up, leaving your spa in less than perfect condition.  

Without regular cleaning, the water can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to skin irritation and other issues. Using the right hot tub cleaner and staying on top of maintenance is way to keeping the water clear and safe.  

Let’s get into the best ways to keep your hot tub clean, so you can enjoy a relaxing soak without worry. 

Why Regular Cleaning Matters 

Regular cleaning is essential for several reasons. A clean hot tub isn’t just more pleasant to use—it’s also healthier. If you skip maintenance, the water will eventually get cloudy and dirty.  

You might even notice a musty smell or foam on the surface. This is usually a sign that bacteria, algae, or oils have taken over. Dirty water also means the filter and pump have to work more which can wear them down faster.  

Routine cleaning not only makes your hot tub more enjoyable but also prevents costly repairs in the long run. 

Daily and Weekly Hot Tub Maintenance 

Skimming and Surface Cleaning 

Start by skimming the surface every day to remove debris. This includes leaves, bugs, and any dirt floating around. Skimming only takes a minute but can make a big difference in the water quality.  

If you use the hot tub regularly, this should become part of your routine. After a soak, take a microfiber cloth and clean the sides of the hot tub to get rid of any oil or dirt that may have built up. To keep the plumbing and jets in top condition, consider using a hot tub cleaner to remove oils and other contaminants that regular cleaning might miss. 

Testing and Balancing Water Chemistry 

Checking the water chemistry is a must. At least twice a week, test the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. If any of these levels are off, the water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae.  

pH levels needs to be between 7.2 and 7.8. The right alkalinity helps stabilize the pH, and a proper sanitizer level ensures bacteria don’t grow. Use test strips to make it easy.  

If you need to make adjustments, use the appropriate chemicals to balance things out. Keeping the water balanced makes the cleaning process much easier and helps avoid cloudy water. 

Running the Filtration System 

One of the best ways to keep your water clean is by running the filtration system regularly. Even when you’re not using the hot tub, make sure the filters are circulating the water. This ensures that contaminants get trapped and don’t linger in the spa.  

If you leave your hot tub unused for a while, set it to circulate for at least 15 to 20 minutes each day. This helps keep the water fresher and makes cleaning more manageable. 

Deep Cleaning: Monthly and Quarterly Tasks 

Shocking the Water 

While regular cleaning helps keep things under control, you’ll need to shock the water about once a month. Shocking the water helps remove chlorine or bromine byproducts, which can cause odors or skin irritation.  

The process is simple. Add a larger dose of sanitizer to the water to break down impurities and kill off harmful bacteria. Shocking the water monthly keeps things fresh and clean, so you don’t have to worry about buildup. 

Cleaning the Jets 

Jets in your hot tub work hard to move water around, but they can also collect debris, oils, and minerals over time. These things can block the jets or cause them to run less effectively.  

Every few months, clean the jets by running the tub on the highest setting with a jet cleaner solution. 

Draining and Refilling the Hot Tub 

No matter how well you maintain the water, you’ll have to drain and refill your hot tub about every three to four months. This keeps the water fresh and removes any stubborn buildup that just can’t be filtered out.  

When you drain the water, be sure to clean the interior of the tub with a safe, hot tub-friendly cleaner. This will remove oils, scum, and other debris that may have accumulated. After refilling, check the water’s chemistry again and adjust it as needed. 

Filter Maintenance: Keeping Water Fresh 

How Often to Clean Your Filters 

Your hot tub filter plays a major role in keeping the water clean. It traps dirt, oils, and other debris before they get into the water. If the filter is clogged, it won’t work as well, and the water will suffer. 

You should rinse your filter every two weeks to remove loose debris. It’s also important to clean it with a filter cleaner solution once a month. Soak the filter overnight, rinse it thoroughly, and let it air dry before putting it back. 

Why Filters Matter 

A clean filter is important for keeping the water fresh. Without it, contaminants will quickly build up, and you’ll notice the water getting dirty faster. Filters also help reduce the amount of chemicals needed to maintain balanced water.  

The cleaner the filter, the easier it is to keep the water clear, which saves you time and money. You should also replace your filters every 12 to 18 months or sooner if they start showing signs of wear. 

Conclusion 

Keeping your hot tub clean is a straightforward process with the right routine and tools. Regular maintenance, like skimming, balancing water, and checking the filter, will keep your water fresh and clear.  

Using the right hot tub cleaner and staying on top of the schedule will keep your spa in top condition. With a little time and care, your hot tub will always be ready for a clean soak.