How to Maintain and Clean Your Inflatable Hot Tub
- hotubsuppliers
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
Inflatable hot tubs are a fantastic way to enjoy the luxury of a spa without the high cost or permanent installation. However, to keep your tub in peak condition and ensure a safe, relaxing soak every time, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential. In this post, we'll walk you through the basics of caring for your inflatable hot tub, so it stays clean, hygienic, and functional.
1. Check and Balance Water Chemistry
The cornerstone of hot tub maintenance is managing the water chemistry. You’ll need to test and adjust your water regularly—ideally every 2-3 days. Use test strips to monitor pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine are most common). Here's what to aim for:
pH: 7.2–7.8
Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
Sanitizer: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation
Balanced water helps prevent bacterial growth, scale buildup, and skin irritation.
2. Clean or Replace the Filter
Your hot tub’s filter works hard to trap debris, dirt, and oils, keeping the water clean. It’s important to:
Rinse the filter with clean water every 1–2 days
Deep clean the filter with a filter cleaner every 1–2 weeks
Replace the filter every 4–6 weeks (or as directed by your manufacturer)
A clogged filter can strain the pump and lead to cloudy or dirty water.
3. Change the Water Regularly
Even with proper chemical balance, water can accumulate body oils, lotions, and microscopic debris over time. Change your hot tub water every 4–6 weeks, or sooner if it's used frequently. When draining:
Turn off and unplug the tub
Attach a hose to the drain valve
Let it fully empty
Rinse the interior before refilling
Fresh water not only looks and smells better, but it's also more effective at holding chemical balance.
4. Wipe Down the Interior
After draining your tub, take time to clean the interior surface:
Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap or a spa-safe cleaner
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that can damage the material
Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue before refilling
This prevents buildup of grime, algae, or mildew and extends the life of your tub’s liner.
5. Cover It When Not in Use
Always use your hot tub’s cover when it’s not in use. A good cover:
Keeps out leaves, bugs, and dirt
Reduces water evaporation
Helps maintain water temperature
Protects from UV damage
Ensure the cover is fitted properly and in good condition—replace it if it becomes cracked or waterlogged.
6. Clean the Exterior and Surrounding Area
Keeping the area around your tub clean prevents debris from getting tracked in. Sweep the ground, wipe down the tub’s exterior, and make sure the base is free from mud or sharp objects that could puncture it.
7. Winter Care
If you don’t plan to use your inflatable hot tub during colder months, drain it, clean it, dry it completely, and store it in a dry, indoor location. Freezing temperatures can damage the materials and internal components.
Conclusion
Maintaining your inflatable hot tub doesn’t have to be a chore. With a regular schedule of checking water chemistry, cleaning filters, and giving the tub a deep clean now and then, you can enjoy a safe and sparkling spa experience anytime. A little routine care goes a long way in keeping your hot tub in top shape for many seasons of soaking!
Comments