Must-Have Hot Tub Cleaning Tools
Keeping your hot tub sparkling clean isn’t rocket science, but you do need the right tools. Spa vacuums are a game-changer for maintaining your hot tub. Let’s break down the different types of spa vacuums and highlight some top picks for hot tub owners.
Types of Spa Vacuums
When it comes to spa vacuums, you’ve got three main types:
- Battery-Operated Vacuums: These are powered by batteries, making them super convenient and portable. Perfect for quick clean-ups without the hassle of cords.
- Rechargeable Vacuums: These come with rechargeable batteries, making them eco-friendly. They offer strong suction and are built for repeated use.
- Manual Vacuums: These work through suction or pumping to remove debris. They’re budget-friendly and don’t need any power source, great for those who like a hands-on approach.
Top Hot Tub Vacuum Picks
Here are some of the best hot tub vacuums, each catering to different needs and preferences:
| Vacuum Type | Model | Features | Power Source | Run Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery-Operated | Water Tech Pool Blaster | Strong suction, captures and traps debris | 5 D-cell batteries | Up to 3 hours |
| Manual | Aura 6250 Paradise Power | Siphon-powered, no batteries or electricity needed | N/A | N/A |
| Rechargeable | Intex PureSpa Handheld | Strong suction, detachable hose, reusable debris bag | Rechargeable battery | Ongoing (Swim University) |
- Water Tech Pool Blaster Cordless Spa Vacuum:
- This battery-operated vacuum can run up to 3 hours on five D-cell batteries. It’s designed to capture and trap debris that other vacuums might miss, making it a powerful option for thorough cleaning.
- Aura 6250 Paradise Power Spa Vacuum:
- This siphon-powered vacuum doesn’t require any power source, batteries, or electricity. It uses siphon power to clean your hot tub, making it a reliable and eco-friendly option.
- Intex PureSpa Handheld Vacuum:
- This rechargeable vacuum is ideal for inflatable hot tubs and smaller above-ground pools. It offers ongoing, powerful suction capability and comes with a three-foot-long detachable hose and a reusable debris bag.
For more info on the best hot tub accessories, check out our guide on essential hot tub accessories.
Choosing the right vacuum for your hot tub means easy maintenance and a sparkling clean spa experience. For more upgrade ideas, take a look at hot tub upgrade ideas and hot tub cleaning and maintenance tools.
Keeping Your Hot Tub Sparkling Clean
Taking care of your hot tub isn’t just about making it look good—it’s about keeping it safe and enjoyable. The secret sauce? Sanitizers and water balancers. Let’s break it down.
Chlorine, Bromine, and Mineral Sanitizers
Sanitizers are the unsung heroes that keep your hot tub water free from nasty germs and gunk. Here’s a quick rundown of the main types:
Chlorine Sanitizers
Chlorine is like the bouncer at a club, kicking out unwanted guests (aka microorganisms). You want to keep chlorine levels between 1-3 ppm to keep things clean.
| Sanitizer Type | Recommended Level (ppm) |
|---|---|
| Chlorine | 1-3 |
Bromine Sanitizers
Bromine is chlorine’s chill cousin. It’s more stable in hot water and sticks around longer, making it great for hot tubs. Aim for 3-5 ppm.
| Sanitizer Type | Recommended Level (ppm) |
|---|---|
| Bromine | 3-5 |
Mineral Sanitizers
Mineral sanitizers use natural elements like silver or copper to keep bacteria at bay. They’re a good sidekick to chlorine or bromine, cutting down on the amount you need.
| Sanitizer Type | Recommended Level (ppm) |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Varies (supplementary) |
PH Balancers and Conditioners
Keeping the pH level just right is key to avoiding skin irritation and keeping your hot tub in top shape.
PH Balancers
You want your hot tub’s pH between 7.2 and 7.8. Too low, and it’s like soaking in lemon juice. Too high, and you’re swimming in soap scum.
| PH Level | Effect |
|---|---|
| Below 7.2 | Acidic, can cause skin irritation |
| 7.2 – 7.8 | Ideal, balanced |
| Above 7.8 | Alkaline, can cause scale build-up |
Conditioners
Conditioners are like the spa day your hot tub deserves. They prevent scum lines, stop scale build-up, and make the water feel silky smooth. Products like Spa Marvel Water Treatment & Conditioner are a game-changer (Spa Marvel).
Using the right sanitizers and water balancers keeps your hot tub clean and safe. For more tips, check out our guide on essential hot tub accessories.
Hot Tub Maintenance Tips
Keeping your hot tub in great shape means more fun and less hassle. Here’s a simple guide to keep your hot tub clean and running smoothly with weekly, monthly, and seasonal tasks.
Weekly Maintenance Routine
A little effort each week goes a long way. Here’s what you need to do:
- Check Water Levels: Make sure there’s enough water to keep the pump and heater happy.
- Test and Balance Water: Use test strips to check pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Adjust as needed.
- Rinse Filters: Take out the filters and rinse them with a garden hose to get rid of gunk.
- Wipe the Exposed Lip: Clean the edge of the hot tub to keep dirt out of the water.
| Task | How Often |
|---|---|
| Check Water Levels | Weekly |
| Test and Balance Water | Weekly |
| Rinse Filters | Weekly |
| Wipe Exposed Lip | Weekly |
Need more tips? Check out our hot tub cleaning and maintenance tools.
Monthly and Seasonal Tasks
Beyond weekly chores, some tasks need a bit more elbow grease but are just as important.
Monthly Tasks
Once a month, give your hot tub some extra love:
- Spray and Rinse Filters: Use a filter cleaner spray and rinse well to remove oils and grime.
- Clean the Cabinet: Wipe down the outside to keep it looking good and prevent mold.
- Wipe Down the Cover: Clean the cover to keep it free from dirt and protect it from the weather.
| Task | How Often |
|---|---|
| Spray and Rinse Filters | Monthly |
| Clean the Cabinet | Monthly |
| Wipe Down Cover | Monthly |
Seasonal Tasks
Every 3-4 months, dig a bit deeper:
- Deep Clean Filters: Soak filters overnight in a cleaning solution, then rinse well.
- Drain and Deep Clean: Empty the hot tub and scrub the inside. Refill with fresh water.
- Cover Cleaning and Protection: Use a cleaner and protectant on the cover to make it last longer.
| Task | How Often |
|---|---|
| Deep Clean Filters | Every 3-4 Months |
| Drain and Deep Clean | Every 3-4 Months |
| Clean and Protect Cover | Every 3-4 Months |
For more detailed seasonal tips, visit our guide on essential hot tub accessories.
By sticking to these weekly, monthly, and seasonal tasks, your hot tub will stay clean, efficient, and always ready for a soak. Want to make your hot tub even better? Check out our best hot tub accessories and hot tub cover lifters.
Hot Tub Accessories and Add-Ons
Making your hot tub experience top-notch isn’t just about keeping it clean; it’s also about adding the right accessories to make maintenance a breeze. Let’s check out two must-have accessories for hot tub owners: cleaning brushes and high-quality covers.
Cleaning Brush Options
Keeping your hot tub clean is key to making it last longer and ensuring every soak is enjoyable. There are several cleaning brushes designed just for hot tubs, each with its own perks.
Harmless Spa Brush
The Harmless Spa Brush is a fan favorite because it’s gentle on all spa surfaces and tough on grime. It uses over a thousand tiny foam pads to scrub away tub rings and scum without scratching. It gets into all those hard-to-reach spots (Amazon).
LiKing Spa Professional Maintenance and Cleaning Kit
This kit from LiKing has everything you need: a skimmer, brush, and scrubber pad. It’s a one-stop-shop for keeping your hot tub in tip-top shape.
U.S. Pool Supply Professional Pool Step and Corner Cleaning Brush
This brush has a handle that rotates 180 degrees and bristles that curve at the ends, making it perfect for scrubbing and sweeping. It easily reaches those tricky corners.
Yocada Tub Tile Scrubber Brush
The Yocada Scrubber Brush is a 2-in-1 tool with an adjustable pole and stiff bristles. It’s great for cleaning various surfaces, including hot tubs, without scratching them.
Intex PureSpa Hot Tub and Spa Maintenance Accessory Kit
This kit includes a curved brush, mesh net skimmer, and scrubber, all designed for inflatable PureSpa hot tubs. It’s got all the basics for keeping your hot tub spotless.
Bestway SaluSpa All-in-One 3 Piece Maintenance Cleaning Tool Accessory Set
The Bestway SaluSpa set comes with a scrub brush, mitt, and skimmer net, offering a complete cleaning solution for hot tubs and spas.
High-Quality Hot Tub Covers
A good hot tub cover is essential for keeping your hot tub clean and efficient. It keeps out dirt, debris, and bugs, helps maintain the chemical balance, and keeps the water temperature steady, which can save you money on operating costs.
Jacuzzi® ProLast™ Cover
The Jacuzzi® ProLast™ Cover creates a vacuum seal to keep out unwanted elements, preserving water quality and reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
ClearRay Active Oxygen® System
Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs also offer the ClearRay Active Oxygen® System, which uses ozone and UV-C technology for almost hands-free water care. This system reduces manual cleaning by exposing ozonated water to a UV-C bulb, ensuring effective cleanliness.
Jacuzzi® True™ System
The Jacuzzi® True™ system uses nanobubbles to keep hot tub water clean and clear with minimal effort. It’s 99.9999% chlorine-free, making it a healthier and eco-friendly way to maintain your hot tub.
For more tips on hot tub accessories, check out our guide on best hot tub accessories and discover other ways to enhance your hot tub experience.
