How to Clean a Jetted Tub

Nothing will ruin your peace and tranquility during a long soak in a jacuzzi faster than a grungy tub. A jetted tub requires regular cleaning, just like any other bathroom fixture, but the jets can throw some homeowners for a loop.

A professional jetted tub cleaning crew isn’t required. With a few household items, you can manage a thorough jacuzzi cleaning. We’ll walk you through it.

Why Do You Need to Clean a Jetted Bathtub?

Any bathtub will accumulate soap scum, body oils, bacteria, and grime. The minerals in your tap water also build up over time, and mildew is another common problem.

A bathtub has to be awfully dirty for it to be a health hazard, but just a little grime can make your tub much less inviting. You might even notice a film in the water or on your skin, making you feel like your bath made you less clean than you were before hopping in.

Also, if cleaning goes neglected for too long, a buildup of gunk in the jets can prevent your jacuzzi from working properly.

How Often Should You Clean a Jetted Tub

Determining how often to clean jacuzzi jets is dependent on how often you use the tub. If you use your jetted tub often, a monthly cleaning is appropriate. If you use it only a few times a month, cleaning every two to three months is reasonable.

Cleaning frequency may also depend on the quality of your water and the kinds of products you use in the tub. You may want to clean a little more often if your water has a high mineral content, or if you use bath oils or bubbles while in the tub.

You may be able to prolong time between cleanings with some easy maintenance. After using your jacuzzi, drain the tub and refill it with hot water. Allow the water to sit for 15 minutes to help dissolve any lingering grime, then drain the tub again. Use a towel to pat the tub dry to disinhibit mildew growth.

Tools and Materials for a Jetted Tub Clean

Forgo the jetted tub cleaning service. You more than likely have all the materials necessary on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

•        Baking soda
•        Dishwashing detergent
•        Vinegar or bleach
•        Measuring cup
•        Toothbrush
•        Sponge or microfiber cloths
•        Dental floss
•        Rubber gloves

Jetted Tub Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Once you have all the tools and materials ready, follow these step-by-step instructions to give your tub a thorough clean.

1. Wipe away visible grime from the tub basin.

Don your rubber gloves and use the sponge to wipe off hair and visible grime. No need to go for a deep scrub at this point—just get rid of the stuff that comes off easily.

2. Flush the tub and plumbing.

Plug the drain and fill the tub with enough hot water to cover the jets by a couple of inches. Once the tub is filled, add your cleaning agent. The best cleaner for jetted tubs may be vinegar. It’s effective at dissolving gunk, but it’s still gentle on the jets and plumbing. You should add about two cups of vinegar. You can use half of a cup of bleach instead, but some jetted tub manufacturers advise against the use of bleach as a cleaning agent.

Also add a couple of teaspoons of dishwashing detergent. A little goes a long way.

3. Turn off the air-induction valves and turn on the jets.

Disable the air-induction valves for a thorough clean. Refer to your tub’s documentation if you’re not sure how to do this.

Turn on the jets and allow them to run on high for 10 or 15 minutes. You may see gunk shoot out from the jets—this is a good thing.

4. Drain the tub and flush once more.

Drain the jacuzzi and, if necessary, wipe away any visible grime or debris. Refill the tub again with hot water and run the jets for another 15 minutes. Drain the tub until it’s empty.

5. Scrub the tub and jets.

Apply baking soda to the tub basin and jets. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then scrub away with a sponge or cloth. Scrub the jets with the toothbrush and use the dental floss to pick away grime that you can’t otherwise reach.

Rinse one last time and pat dry.

Beyond Cleaning

Regular cleanings will keep your jacuzzi in great shape, but no one can eliminate the risk of plumbing issues. If something does go wrong, a home warranty with plumbing coverage can expedite your repairs and save you a great amount of money.

Use the Liberty Home Guard website for a free quote on a plan for you. You can also call (866)-681-0820.