How Do I Remove Oil And Lotion Residue From My Hot Tub?

Use a scum absorber or enzyme cleaner to break down oils and lotions in the water. Regularly clean the filter, and encourage bathers to shower before entering the hot tub.

What Causes Oil And Lotion Build-Up In Hot Tubs?

Lotions, sunscreens, body oils, hair products, and even makeup wash off in hot water. When multiple people use the tub, the amount of buildup increases quickly.

Common sources of oily residue include:

• Sunscreen and tanning oils

• Moisturizers and body lotions

• Hair conditioners and styling products

• Natural body oils and sweat

• Detergents from swimsuits or towels

Once introduced into your hot tub, these substances mix with the water and stick to filters, jets, and the waterline.

How To Spot Oil And Lotion Residue

Signs that your spa is dealing with oil or lotion residue:

• A visible film on the water surface

• Greasy feeling on your skin after soaking

• Ring around the tub’s waterline

• Foamy or cloudy water

• Reduced jet pressure due to clogged filters

Identifying the issue early helps avoid clogged filters or water chemistry problems.

Step-By-Step: How To Remove Oil And Lotion Residue

Use this quick guide to clear out residue and refresh your water.

Step 1: Skim And Scoop

Start by skimming the surface. Use a pool skimmer net to remove any visible floating debris.

Step 2: Clean Or Replace The Filter

Check your filter. Oils quickly clog filter media.

• Rinse with a hose

• Soak in a degreasing filter cleaner

• Replace filters if over a year old

Step 3: Use A Scum Absorber Or Oil Sponge

Drop-in products like scum balls or oil-absorbing sponges soak up floating residue.

• Place it in the water while jets are on

• Rotate or clean weekly

• Replace monthly or when saturated

Step 4: Shock The Water

Shock treatment oxidizes organic contaminants and breaks down oils.

• Use a chlorine or non-chlorine shock

• Follow package instructions based on tub size

• Keep the cover off during treatment for gas release

Step 5: Clean The Waterline

Scrub the scum line around the tub with a spa-safe cleaner.

• Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth

• Avoid household cleaners, which may affect water balance

Step 6: Add Enzymes

Enzyme-based clarifiers help break down oils before they become a problem.

• Add weekly as part of routine care

• Reduces need for frequent shocking

Step 7: Circulate And Re-Test

Run the jets and circulation system for 4–6 hours. Then retest water chemistry.

• Balance pH (7.2 to 7.8)

• Maintain sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine)

• Adjust alkalinity if needed

If the water is still cloudy after 24 hours, repeat the shock treatment or consider a partial water change.

How To Prevent Oil And Lotion Residue In The Future

Simple habits can stop oily buildup before it starts.

Encourage Pre-Soak Showers

Ask guests to rinse off before using the hot tub. It’s the easiest way to cut down on body oils, lotions, and makeup.

Avoid Wearing Lotions Or Sunscreen In The Tub

If you're planning to soak, skip the body lotion or apply sunscreen after you get out.

Wash Swimsuits Separately

Use clean suits that haven’t been washed with regular detergent. Detergent residue causes foam and can increase scum buildup.

Add Scum Absorbers As A Routine

Use sponges or oil-absorbing products weekly, especially after a group soak or heavy use.

Maintain Water Balance Weekly

• Test water 2–3 times per week

• Shock weekly, or after multiple uses

• Clean filters every 1–2 weeks