Say Goodbye to Hot Tub Smells with These Simple Tips

A hot tub is meant to be a place of relaxation, but unpleasant odors can quickly ruin the experience. Fortunately, identifying the source of the smell and taking the right steps can transform your spa back into a fresh and inviting retreat. Here’s how to eliminate hot tub odors and keep your spa smelling great.

1. Identify the Source of the Smell

Unpleasant odors in your hot tub can come from several sources:

• Dirty Water: Bacteria and contaminants can build up in the water, leading to unpleasant smells.
• Clogged Filters: A filter clogged with dirt and debris can cause musty odors.
• Biofilm in the Plumbing: Biofilm buildup inside pipes and jets can trap bacteria and create foul smells.

Identifying the source is the first step to tackling the issue effectively.

2. Drain and Clean the Hot Tub

If the odor persists, it may be time to drain and clean your spa:

• Drain the Water: Follow your hot tub’s manual to safely drain the water.
• Clean the Shell: Use a non-abrasive hot tub cleaner to scrub the interior surface. Avoid using household cleaners that may leave harmful residues.
• Flush the Plumbing: Use a plumbing line cleaner to remove biofilm buildup in the pipes and jets.

After thoroughly cleaning, refill the hot tub with fresh water and balance the chemicals to ensure a safe soak.

3. Replace or Clean the Filters

A dirty filter can be a major source of bad smells. Remove the filter and rinse it with a garden hose to remove debris. For a deeper clean, soak the filter in a filter cleaner solution. If the filter shows signs of wear, replace it to ensure proper water circulation and cleanliness.

4. Balance Your Water Chemistry

Maintaining proper water chemistry is essential for keeping your hot tub odor-free:

• Sanitize Regularly: Use a high-quality sanitizer like chlorine or bromine to kill bacteria.
• Monitor pH Levels: Test the pH levels and adjust as needed to keep them between 7.2 and 7.8.
• Shock Your Spa: Regularly shocking the water helps eliminate organic contaminants that can cause odors.

Products from our Hot Tub Care Collection can make balancing your water chemistry easy and effective.

5. Prevent Future Odors

Prevention is key to keeping your spa fresh:

• Shower Before Use: Encourage everyone to shower before entering the hot tub to minimize contaminants.
• Cover Your Spa: Use a properly fitted spa cover to keep debris out and maintain water quality.
• Stick to a Maintenance Schedule: Regular cleaning, sanitizing, and testing will prevent odors from returning.

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of hot tub odors doesn’t have to be complicated. By addressing the root cause and following a consistent maintenance routine, you can enjoy a clean and refreshing spa experience year-round.

Ready to keep your hot tub in top condition? Check out our Hot Tub Care Collection for everything you need to maintain a fresh and inviting spa.