Cleaning an inflatable hot tub may seem like a tough task, but you must do it to maintain the longevity and functionality of your investment.
If you don’t clean your inflatable hot tub, bacteria, mold(black mold), and algae can build up, and make it unsafe and unpleasant. If you were my friend, and invite me for a spa party, I would not jump into a tub which is not clear!
Don’t worry; I will show you step-by-step instructions on how to keep your inflatable hot tub spick and span.
Preparations For Cleaning An Inflatable Hot Tub
Before you start cleaning your inflatable hot tub, you must be prepared for it. It includes gathering all the necessary supplies and taking some safety precautions. Let’s take a look at the preparations:
Safety Precautions To Consider Before Cleaning
Don’t just jump into the tub with any safety precautions! First of all, make sure to turn off the power of the pump before cleaning.
Do you have protective gear? Here you will need gloves only, wear them for safety purposes. You must not use abrasive brushes or harsh chemicals to clean the surfaces of the hot tub.
Lastly, be mindful of the drainage valve while removing any visible debris or cleaning the interior and exterior surfaces to prevent injury.
Gathering The Necessary Cleaning Supplies
Have you ever thought of writing in your exams without a pen? Not, right? Just like that, before cleaning your inflatable hot tub, it’s essential to gather all necessary cleaning supplies to make the process smoother.
You will need a damp microfiber cloth or sponge to clean the exterior. You may also need a mild detergent or special hot tub surface cleaner to remove stubborn stains. You may also need brushes and cleaning chemicals.
What To Use And What Not To Use For Cleaning
There are certain things that you must use for cleaning and also a few things that you must forget about. I have made a list of those below:
- Use white vinegar to sanitize the inside walls
- Use rubbing alcohol to remove grime
- Use warm, slightly soapy water for general cleaning
Just remember to avoid using abrasive brushes or detergent, otherwise, you may end up damaging the surface of your inflatable hot tub.
Natural Option To Use For Cleaning
The best way is the natural way! You can look for some natural cleaning options for safe and better cleaning.
You can use white vinegar, baking soda, diluted rubbing alcohol, and hydrogen peroxide for cleaning. These are cost-effective, and also better for the environment compared to harsh chemical cleaners.
How To Clean An Inflatable Hot Tub
Step #1: Turn off the power of the pump
As I said earlier, turn off the power of the pump. I am sure you won’t love water to start flowing in the middle of your cleaning!
Step #2: Remove any visible dirt
You should remove any visible dirt and debris from the surface of the tub. This may include leaves, twigs, or other outdoor debris that has accumulated in or around the tub. You can simply use a pool net or your bare hands to scoop out any large debris. You can also use a soft cloth to wipe off the remaining dirt.
Step #3: Drain the hot tub
This is the simplest of all, just drain the water from your hot tub using the drain valve! Worried about where to drain it? You can use it to water your plants.
Step #4: Clean the interior and exterior surface
Now, you should clean the interior and exterior surfaces. For the exterior surface, use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge and water to wipe it down. For any stubborn stains, you can use mild detergent and warm water.
For the interior surface, use the same cleaning technique as the exterior. You must avoid using detergents as these can create suds when you refill the tub.
Use special hot tub surface cleaners if the stains are too much stubborn! Don’t forget to thoroughly rinse the tub once you’ve finished.
Step #5: Clean the filter cartridge
Next in cleaning an inflatable hot tub, you have to remove filter and then clean the filter or cartridge. This is an essential step to keep the water clean and clear.
When you regularly clean the filter cartridge, it remains in good shape and its lifespan is extended. You can use natural options for cleaning the filter which includes hosing it down or rinsing it in the sink.
Step #6: Clean the air jets
Have you seen the air jets? In this step, you have to clean it as well. To clean them, fill the tub halfway with warm water and add a cup of white vinegar.
Now, turn on the jets and allow the solution to circulate for about 15 minutes. Drain the water and refill with clean water, then run the jets for another 10 minutes to rinse. Yes, it’s that simple!
You can read: How to Fix Hot Tub Jets Blowing Out [11 Steps]
Some Tips For Maintenance Of The Inflatable Hot Tub
Besides cleaning the inflatable hot tub, you must maintain this for a soothing hot tub experience. Want some tips? Look below:
- Regularly replace the water and use chlorine or bromine sanitizers to kill bacteria.
- Ask your guest to shower before entering the tub, replace the water regularly, and clean out leaves and debris regularly.
- Maintain a pH balance between 7.2 to 7.8. You must test water alkalinity once a week and adjust accordingly. Otherwise, you will face negative effects of ph imbalance from the water like Cloudy water, skin irritation, mineral buildup, difficult to clean, damage to hot tub surfaces, corrosion of metal components, and leaks.
- Clean filters regularly, and replace them according to usage.
- Place your inflatable hot tub on a strong, level surface that is puncture-resistant. You can use paving slabs, tiles, or concrete pads.
You should always dry your hot tub before storing it, and make sure it is clean and free of debris.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s essential to keep your inflatable hot tub clean if you want to maintain hygiene and avoid contaminating the water. Additionally, when you clean it regularly, it helps to prolong its life.
You can use a soft cloth or sponge and warm water. If there are stubborn stains, use a mild detergent. Avoid using an abrasive brush as it can damage the surface.
You should replace the water regularly to avoid film buildup and any unwanted smells. The changing period will depend on how often you use the tub and how many people typically use it. However, as a general rule, you should replace the water at least once a month.
Yes, you can use them as chlorine, and bromine sanitizers can kill the bacteria that grow in the water of your inflatable hot tub.
No, abrasive brushes can damage the surface of your inflatable hot tub. I would advise you to clean it regularly to prevent stubborn stains, so you won’t need any abrasive brushes.
Final thought
In conclusion, you must take some time to clean and maintain your inflatable hot tub as it’s crucial to its longevity and your health. When you have the right cleaning supplies and techniques, it can be an easy task that only needs to be done once every few weeks.
Whether you choose to use natural cleaning options or chemical cleaners, be sure to rinse and dry the surface thoroughly. By following these steps, you can enjoy a sparkling clean, and hygienic hot tub for years to come.
