How to Clean a Jetted Tub

There are few things as luxurious as taking a bath in a jetted tub—also known as a whirlpool or Jacuzzi bathtub. The warm water and body massage make for one fantastic way to relax. But the last thing you want to see are chunks of mystery debris swirling about—all the gunk and grime that’s built up inside the jets and connecting hoses since the last time you cleaned it; which was when?

Follow these steps to clean a jetted tub—the air jets and the interior plumbing system—to get it squeaky clean and sanitized so you can relax in crystal-clear water without fear of filth.

Before you begin, it is essential to note that while the process below provides practical guidelines, you should check the owner’s manual for your tub to see what the manufacturer explicitly recommends. Can’t find it? Look at Jacuzzi and Whirlpool tub manuals online.

How to clean a jetted tub

You’ll need:

• Baking soda
• Vinegar OR automatic dishwasher powder like Cascade Complete
• Liquid bleach (optional)
• Measuring cup
• Soft cloth
• Toothbrush
• Bucket

Step 1

Close all of the air control knobs if your model tub has this feature. Not all tubs do.

Step 2

Fill the tub with hot water so the water level is at least 2-inches above the highest jets.

• READ: 36 Clever and Frugal Uses for Baking Soda (Not Just for Baking!)

Step 3

Add two cups of Cascade Complete powdered dishwashing detergent OR 2 cups of vinegar. Your choice; however, I much  prefer Cascade for my tub.

Step 4

Turn the tub’s air jets on and let it run on high for at least 20 minutes or until it appears that all debris from the internal plumbing has stopped washing into the tub.

 

 

Step 5

Drain the tub, rinse well, and then refill with hot water a second time, at least 2-inches above the highest jets. Add 1/2 cup liquid bleach (optional; you continue with water alone). Run the jets on high for another 15 to 20 minutes to flush out even more gunk and grime. Drain the water.

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Step 6

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the tub and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, using a soft wet cloth scrub away all the grime. You can also use baking soda on the faucet and the drain. The purpose here is to break up mold, mildew and soap scum. Baking soda is non-abrasive which is good as most whirlpool tubs are acrylic and can scratch quite easily.

Step  7

Use an old toothbrush to clean around and inside the jets. Reach in with the brush as far as you can to clean this area very well.

Step 8

Unscrew the air-intake cover and give it a good scrub with the toothbrush and regular hand soap. Rinse well, then screw it back on, making sure it is tight.

Step 9

Give the tub a good rinse, and you’re done! Repeat monthly if you use the tub regularly or at least once every three months if it is used infrequently.

 

 

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