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DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide

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DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide

Keeping your hot tub clean is crucial for maintaining water quality and extending its lifespan. Our DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your hot tub stays in top condition.

1. Gather Supplies

Before you start cleaning, gather all the necessary supplies:

  • For the whole spa: Use a mild non-abrasive, non-sudsing cleaner and a soft rag or melamine sponge to remove dirt buildup.
  • For minor surface cleaning: Common baking soda works wonders for cleaning small surface areas. **the quick dissolving granular pH decreaser can be used as the non-abrasive cleanser- you probably already have it on hand and it will not skew your water chemistry like a cleaner with detergent may

Having the right supplies is essential for a successful DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide.

2. Drain and Refill Tub

Soaps and detergents can build up over time in your spa, causing residue. Follow these steps to replace your water:

  • Drain and refill: According to your Owner’s Manual, drain and refill the water in your spa to clear out detergent and soap residue.
  • Get a pre-filter: For sparkling clean water right from the start, use a Pre-Filter when filling your spa.
  • Attach pre-filter: Attach the Pre-Filter to a garden hose to remove organic contaminants, metals like copper and iron, and tannins from your new water.

This step in our DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide ensures your water starts fresh and clean.

3. Clean the Spa

Cleaning your spa thoroughly keeps it looking great and running smoothly:

  • For the whole spa: Use a mild non-abrasive, non-sudsing cleaner and a soft rag or melamine sponge to remove dirt buildup.
  • For minor surface cleaning: Common baking soda works wonders for cleaning small surface areas. **the quick dissolving granular pH decreaser can be used as the non-abrasive cleanser- you probably already have it on hand and it will not skew your water chemistry like a cleaner with detergent may
  • For spa pillows: Follow the instructions in your Owner’s Manual to remove and clean your spa pillows.
  • For vinyl cover: Remove the cover and spray it lightly with a garden hose to loosen dirt. Using a mild soap solution (1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid with 2 gallons of water) or baking soda, scrub the vinyl in a circular motion with a large sponge and rinse with a garden hose. Rinse the bottom of the cover without soap and wipe it clean with a dry rag. To condition the cover, apply a thin film of Hot Spring Cover Shield™ product.

Helpful Hint: To keep detergent and soap residue out of your spa water, shower without soap before soaking in your spa, and instead of washing your bathing suit, use the rinse cycle.

This cleaning routine is a vital part of our DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide to keep your spa in pristine condition.

4. Clean the Filters

Mineral particles or calcification from hard water can clog any water filtration system. Follow these tips each month to keep your spa’s water flowing properly:

  • Spray cartridges: Spray each cartridge with a garden hose, rotating while spraying to thoroughly remove any debris between filter pleats.
  • Use filter cleaner: Use SpaGuard Filter Cleaner to keep your filters clean and in good operating condition.
  • Replace filters: While cleaning your filters helps, you should replace them every three years.

Clean filters are crucial for the effectiveness of our DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide.

5. Refill and Balance

After cleaning, refill your hot tub with fresh water and balance the chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper chemical balance ensures a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience.

Enjoy a Sparkling Clean Hot Tub with Our DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide

Regular cleaning is essential for a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience. By following this DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide, you can keep your hot tub in top condition and extend its lifespan. Enjoy clean water, a sparkling shell, and efficient filters for the perfect soak every time. Happy cleaning!


The Backyard Source is your go-to destination for all things hot tubs. Explore our range of hot tub chemicals and accessories to enhance your backyard experience. Follow our DIY Hot Tub Cleaning Guide to keep your spa pristine and ready for relaxation!