How to clean an inflatable hot tub

When to give it a full clean

Most makers suggest changing the water every few months, and more often with heavy use. Each water change is the time for a full clean. You should also clean early if the walls feel slimy, the water will not stay clear, or there is a ring of scum at the waterline that will not wipe off with the water in.

If the walls feel slippery, read our guide to slimy inflatable hot tubs first, as biofilm needs a specific approach before draining.

What to use and what to avoid

• Use soft cloths or non scratch sponges.
• Use a cleaner made for spas and inflatable PVC, or a mild solution as the tub's manual suggests.
• Rinse with plenty of clean water so no residue is left to cause foam.
• Avoid scouring pads, stiff brushes and abrasive powders, which scratch the liner.
• Avoid household bleach sprays, solvent cleaners and washing up liquid, which can damage PVC or leave foaming residue.
• Check your maker's manual: some list approved products.

Step by step: the full clean

1. 1

   Switch off the pump unit and unplug it from the socket.

2. 2

   Drain the tub using the drain valve and a hose, as in our draining guide.

3. 3

   Remove the filters and set them aside for cleaning.

4. 4

   Wipe the walls, seams and floor, working from the waterline down.

5. 5

   Pay attention to the waterline ring, the seat edges and the area around the inlets and outlets.

6. 6

   Rinse the inside thoroughly and let the dirty water drain away.

7. 7

   Clean the cover and its underside.

8. 8

   Rinse or replace the filters.

9. 9

   Dry the inside with a towel, then reconnect, refill and rebalance the water.

Note:Always unplug the pump unit before cleaning, draining or touching the connections. Do not spray water at the pump unit or the RCD plug.

Cleaning the filters and housing

Filters trap most of the dirt, so they need regular care. Rinse cartridges with a hose every few days, and soak them in a filter cleaner when you change the water. Replace them when the pleats are damaged or they no longer come clean. Our guide to cleaning hot tub filters covers the details.

While the tub is empty, look inside the filter housing and around the inlet and outlet connections. Wipe out any build up, check the seals and make sure nothing is blocking the flow.

Weekly habits that keep it clean

If the water turns cloudy or green between cleans, see our fixes for cloudy water and green water.

• Shower before using the tub to cut oils, lotion and soap in the water.
• Test and keep sanitiser and pH in range a few times a week.
• Skim leaves and insects before they sink.
• Rinse filters every few days.
• Wipe the waterline with a soft cloth when you see a ring forming.
• Keep the cover on whenever the tub is not in use.

Refilling after a clean

Fill with a hose to the marked line, then test and balance pH and alkalinity before adding sanitiser. Bring the water up to temperature with the cover on. In hard water areas, consider a scale treatment; see our page on hard water and limescale.

If you are thinking of upgrading, many newer tubs have tougher liners and better covers. Our best inflatable hot tubs guide compares the main brands.

See the best inflatable hot tubs →

Frequently asked questions

What can I clean an inflatable hot tub with? A spa cleaner made for PVC, or a mild solution if your manual suggests one, with soft cloths. Avoid abrasive pads, solvents and household bleach sprays.

Can I clean the tub without draining it? You can wipe the waterline and skim debris with water in, but a full clean of the liner and floor needs the tub drained.

How often should I deep clean? At each water change, which for most owners is every few months, or sooner if the walls feel slimy or the water will not stay clear.

Can I use washing up liquid? It is best avoided, as residue can cause foaming and may not suit the liner. Use a product made for spas.