So, you’ve got a hot tub. Lucky you! It’s your go-to escape after a long day—the bubbles, the steam, the whole mini-spa-at-home experience. But here’s a question: when was the last time you cleaned your hot tub filter?
Exactly. Most people soak in their tubs without realizing that the filter is basically the unsung hero working overtime behind the scenes. It catches oils, dirt, sunscreen, and who-knows-what else. And if you don’t give it a little TLC, well… let’s just say you might be sitting in less of a “spa retreat” and more of a “giant people soup.”
The good news? Making your own filter cleaner is not only easy, but it’s also way cheaper than buying those fancy bottles at the pool store. Let’s break it down.
Why Bother Cleaning the Filter?
Think about it this way—your hot tub filter is like the lungs of your spa. If it’s clogged, everything else struggles. The water gets cloudy, the jets lose power, and pretty soon, slipping into the tub feels less like luxury and more like “ew.”
Plus, dirty filters force the pump to work harder, which can shorten its lifespan. And nobody wants to shell out big bucks for repairs when a simple cleaning could have prevented the problem.
In short: clean filter = clear water + happy hot tub + longer spa life.
What You’ll Need for a DIY Cleaner
Don’t worry, you won’t need a chemistry degree or a shopping cart full of specialized products. Most of this stuff is already in your pantry. Here’s your hot tub filter cleaning toolkit:
White vinegar (breaks down scale and gunk)
Baking soda (neutralizes odors and gives a gentle scrub)
Warm water (to mix it all together)
A bucket big enough to soak the filter in
Optional: A garden hose for rinsing
That’s it. No mysterious blue liquid, no overpriced spa store solutions—just good old household staples.
Step-by-Step – How to Make and Use Your Cleaner
Ready? Let’s give that filter the spa day it deserves.
Step 1: Rinse It Off
First things first—grab your filter and hose it down. This gets rid of the big debris like leaves, hair, or dirt. (Yeah, let’s not think too hard about what’s been in there.)
Step 2: Mix Up the Magic Solution
Fill your bucket with warm water.
Add 1 cup of vinegar and 1 tablespoon of baking soda per gallon of water.
Give it a little stir—watch it fizz! That’s the science part at work.
Step 3: Soak the Filter
Place your filter in the bucket, making sure it’s completely submerged.
Let it soak for at least 4–6 hours (overnight is even better).
The vinegar dissolves minerals, while baking soda neutralizes odors and loosens buildup.
Step 4: Final Rinse
Take out the filter and give it a thorough rinse with the hose.
Make sure no residue is left, or it’ll end up right back in your hot tub water.
Ta-da! Your filter is now refreshed, and your hot tub will thank you with clearer, cleaner water.
Tips to Keep Filters in Top Shape
Want to make your life easier so you don’t have to deep-clean the filter as often? Try these quick tricks:
Rinse weekly: Even a quick spray with the hose helps prevent buildup.
Rotate filters: If you have two, keep one soaking while the other’s in use.
Deep-clean monthly: Do the vinegar-baking soda soak once a month.
Replace annually: Filters aren’t forever—they usually last about a year before needing a swap.
It’s like brushing your teeth—you can’t just floss once and expect perfection forever. Consistency is key.
Your Hot Tub Deserves It
Here’s the bottom line: a clean filter is the difference between “oasis” and “oh no.” And the best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your spa in tip-top shape. With a bucket, some vinegar, and a little baking soda magic, you can make your own hot tub filter cleaner in minutes.
So, next time you slide into your bubbly paradise, you’ll know the water is sparkling because of you. Go ahead—soak it up.
