Last Updated on September 6, 2023
Cleaning a hot tub with vinegar is a natural and eco-friendly approach that effectively removes stains to bacteria, ensuring a clean, safe, relaxing environment. Whether you’re concerned about the impact of chemicals on your family or the environment, vinegar provides an excellent alternative.
To clean the hot tub using vinegar, begin flushing the water lines to remove any debris or build-up. Then, move on to surface cleaning, ensuring all tub areas are scrubbed and wiped down thoroughly. Next, pay attention to the water jets and properly clean them. After that, clean the water filters.
Here we will discuss each step of cleaning your hot tub using vinegar. So let’s get started.
How to Clean Hot Tub With Vinegar: Step-by-Step Guide
When cleaning your hot tub by using vinegar, there are several key steps you need to follow.
- Step 1: Flushing the water lines
- Step 2: Surface cleaning
- Step 3: Cleaning the water jets
- Step 4: Cleaning the water filters
- Step 5: Cleaning the tub cover
- Step 6: Rinse and refill the hot tub
Step 1: Flushing the Water Lines
To flush your hot tub water lines, you’ll need to add a gallon of white distilled vinegar to the water in the tub. This helps remove any biofilm or bacteria buildup that may have built up over time. The acidity of the vinegar helps break down mineral deposits and other residues, ensuring a thorough cleaning process.
Once you’ve added the vinegar, let it circulate through the water lines for a few hours. This allows the vinegar solution to reach all areas of the system, effectively breaking down any gunk lurking within.
After letting it circulate, give the vinegar solution some time to sit on the surfaces for about 10 minutes. This gives it ample time to work its magic and dissolve stubborn buildups in the water line. Now drain the water from the tub.
Step 2: Surface Cleaning
After that, mix equal parts of white distilled vinegar and water in a bucket to create a cleaning solution for your hot tub’s wall surface. This simple combination effectively removes mildew, algae, and bacteria that can accumulate over time.
To begin the surface cleaning process, section by section, take a sponge, cloth, or soft brush and dip it into the vinegar solution. Gently scrub your hot tub surfaces using circular motions to dislodge dirt and grime.
Also, pay special attention to hard-to-reach corners and crevices using a toothbrush if necessary. Once thoroughly cleaning all areas, wipe down the treated surfaces with a soft cloth to remove any remaining residue.
Step 3: Cleaning the Water Jets
After wiping down the jet covers, you can remove them to clean underneath. To remove the jet caps, twist them counterclockwise until they come off.
Be careful not to force them, as this may cause damage. Once removed, you will have access to the inside of the jets, where bacteria and debris can accumulate.
Using the vinegar and water solution, spray it onto a soft cloth or brush and gently scrub the inside of each jet. Pay close attention to any areas that appear dirty or clogged. The vinegar will help break down any buildup and kill bacteria.
After cleaning all the jets, rinse them with clean water to remove any remaining residue or cleaning solution.
Step 4: Cleaning the Water Filters
You’ll want to carefully remove the water filters from your hot tub for cleaning. Cleaning the filters regularly is essential for maintaining a clean, bacteria-free hot tub.
Locate the filter compartment, which is usually found near the water pump or skimmer basket area. Gently lift out the filters, being cautious not to damage them.
Prepare a large bowl with a mixture of vinegar and water solution. Submerge the filters into the solution and let them soak for at least two hours. This will help break down any dirt, oils, and bacteria that may have accumulated on the filters.
After soaking, rinse the filters thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue from the vinegar solution.
Step 5: Cleaning the Tub Cover
Now that you’ve cleaned the water filters, it’s time to focus on the hot tub cover. Start by spraying down the cover with the vinegar solution, ensuring you cover all areas. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the vinegar to work its magic.
Next, take a soft cloth and wipe down the cover, removing any dirt or grime that may have accumulated over time. Be thorough in cleaning, paying close attention to corners and seams.
Step 6: Rinse and Refill the Hot Tub
After cleaning the tub fully, thoroughly rinse the hot tub with clean water. This will remove any remaining vinegar and loosened grime from the surfaces. Refill the hot tub with clean water and ensure its pH and disinfectant levels are properly balanced.
Vinegar can slightly reduce the pH of the water, so you might need to use a pH raiser or baking soda to restore the optimal level of 7.2 to 7.8. Check the levels of sanitizer and adjust them as needed.
What kind of vinegar should I use to clean the hot tub?
The best kind of vinegar to use when cleaning your hot tub is distilled white vinegar. Distilled vinegar has an acidity percentage level of about 5, making it strong enough to tackle tough stains and grime in tub. Its high acidity helps break down dirt and residue, leaving your tub clean and sanitized.
What is the ratio of vinegar and water to clean hot tub surfaces?
To clean the surfaces of your hot tub, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a bucket. This ratio of vinegar to water is ideal for effectively removing dirt, grime, and other contaminants from tub surfaces.
By using equal parts water and vinegar, you ensure that the cleaning solution will be strong enough to tackle stubborn stains and residue while still being gentle enough not to damage the surface of your tub.
How often should I clean my hot tub with vinegar?
You should clean your tub with vinegar at least once a month to remove dirt and grime from the surfaces effectively. Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your hot bathtub. Also, regularly cleaning with vinegar ensures a sanitary hot tub.
Keep Your Hot Tub Sparkling Clean with Vinegar
Cleaning your hot bathtub with vinegar is a simple and effective way to maintain cleanliness. Make sure to use distilled white vinegar for best results.
The recommended ratio of vinegar to water is 1:1, but you can adjust it based on the level of dirtiness. It is advisable to keep your hot tub clean with vinegar every month to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance.
Remember to clean the jets deep using a vinegar solution for a thorough cleanse. With these tips, you’ll have a sparkling clean hot tub in no time.
