How Do I Clean My Hot Tub’s Exterior

Wipe down the exterior shell with a mild detergent and water solution. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, which can damage the surface.

Why Is It Important to Clean the Hot Tub’s Exterior?

Cleaning the exterior of your hot tub is not just about aesthetics; it’s also essential for the longevity of your spa. Regular cleaning prevents dirt and grime from causing damage to the surface and helps maintain the structural integrity of your hot tub.

• Prevents buildup: Regular cleaning prevents dirt, oils, and algae from building up on the exterior surface.
  

• Improves appearance: A clean hot tub exterior improves the overall look of your spa and helps it blend seamlessly with your outdoor space.
  

• Protects materials: Regular cleaning protects the materials of the hot tub from becoming discolored, damaged, or deteriorated over time.
  

• Prevents mold and mildew: Keeping the exterior clean prevents the growth of mold and mildew, which thrive in damp, dirty environments.
  

With these reasons in mind, let’s take a look at how you can clean your hot tub’s exterior properly.

How to Clean Your Hot Tub’s Exterior

Cleaning the exterior of your hot tub is a relatively simple process, but it’s essential to use the right cleaning products and tools to avoid damage. Here are the steps you should follow to clean your hot tub’s exterior:

Turn Off the Power and Drain the Hot Tub

Before you begin cleaning, it’s always a good idea to turn off the power to your hot tub to ensure safety.

• Turn off the power: Switch off the hot tub’s power to avoid electrical accidents while cleaning.
  

• Drain the hot tub: While it’s not always necessary to drain the hot tub for exterior cleaning, it can be helpful if you plan to clean around the base or need access to the surrounding area. If you do decide to drain the tub, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  

Use a Soft Cloth or Sponge

Using a soft cloth or sponge is essential for avoiding scratches or damage to your hot tub’s surface. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch or mar the surface of the tub.

• Use a microfiber cloth: A microfiber cloth is an excellent tool for cleaning hot tub surfaces, as it won’t scratch or damage the exterior.
  

• Choose a soft sponge: If you prefer using a sponge, make sure it’s soft to prevent scuffing the surface. Avoid using rough, abrasive sponges that can scratch the material.
  

Select a Safe Cleaning Solution

It’s essential to use the right cleaning solution to avoid damaging your hot tub’s surface or finish. Choose a cleaner that’s designed for your hot tub’s material.

• Non-abrasive cleaner: Look for a non-abrasive cleaner that’s formulated for use on hot tubs. These cleaners are effective at removing grime without causing any damage to the surface.
  

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Stay away from harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, as these can damage the hot tub’s exterior, especially if it’s made of acrylic or fiberglass.
  

• Natural cleaning solutions: If you prefer an eco-friendly approach, you can use a mixture of water and vinegar or a mild dish soap solution to clean the exterior.
  

Clean the Hot Tub Cover

The hot tub cover is an essential part of the exterior, and it requires regular cleaning to maintain its condition and extend its lifespan.

• Clean with a soft cloth: Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the cover. Clean both the top and underside of the cover to remove dirt, grime, and debris.
  

• Use a mild soap solution: Mix mild soap with warm water to clean the cover. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they may damage the cover material.
  

• Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the cover with clean water to remove any soap residue.
  

• Condition the cover: To protect the material, use a vinyl conditioner designed for hot tub covers. This will help maintain its flexibility and prevent cracking or fading.
  

Clean the Jets and Plumbing Fixtures

While the exterior surface is the main focus, it’s also a good idea to clean any visible jets and plumbing fixtures on the outside of the hot tub.

• Wipe down jets and fixtures: Use a cloth to wipe down the jets and plumbing fixtures around the hot tub. These areas can accumulate dirt and grime, so it’s essential to keep them clean.
  

• Clean with mild soap: Use a mild soap and water solution to clean any visible plumbing fixtures or jets. Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage these delicate components.
  

Remove Debris Around the Hot Tub

The area surrounding your hot tub can often accumulate dirt, leaves, and other debris. Keeping this area clean will help maintain the exterior of your hot tub and prevent the debris from getting onto the surface.

• Use a leaf blower: A leaf blower is an efficient tool for clearing leaves and other debris from around your hot tub.
  

• Vacuum the area: If you have carpeting or flooring around your hot tub, use a vacuum to remove any dirt or debris.
  

• Sweep regularly: Use a broom to sweep around the hot tub to keep the area clean and tidy.
  

Dry and Polish the Exterior

Once the exterior of your hot tub is clean, drying it off and applying a polish can help maintain its shine and protect the surface.

• Dry with a microfiber cloth: After cleaning, use a microfiber cloth to dry the surface of the hot tub. This will help prevent water spots and keep the exterior looking shiny.
  

• Use a hot tub polish: If desired, apply a hot tub polish designed for the material of your hot tub. This will help restore its shine and protect the surface from UV damage and grime buildup.
  

Perform Regular Maintenance

To keep your hot tub’s exterior looking great, regular maintenance is essential.

• Clean regularly: Clean the exterior of your hot tub at least once a month or more often if needed. Regular cleaning helps prevent dirt and grime buildup and keeps your hot tub in great condition.
  

• Check for damage: While cleaning, check for any signs of damage to the hot tub’s exterior. Look for cracks, chips, or fading that may need to be repaired.

• Protect from the elements: If your hot tub is exposed to the elements, consider investing in a hot tub cover to protect it from the sun, rain, and snow.