How to Clean Hot Tub Surfaces Without Damaging Them

Your hot tub is meant to be a place to relax, not a magnet for grime or buildup. But over time, body oils, lotion residue, hard water, and outdoor debris can turn a clean spa into a maintenance headache. The key to preserving its look and lifespan is using the right tools and methods to clean it without damaging the surface. Whether your hot tub is acrylic, fiberglass, or vinyl-lined, the wrong cleaner or abrasive sponge can do more harm than good.

Why You Should Use Surface-Safe Cleaning Methods

Hot tubs may look tough, but their surfaces can scratch, fade, or crack if cleaned with the wrong product. Cleaning properly helps you:

Maintain water quality
Prevent chemical reactions that wear out surfaces
Avoid staining and buildup
Keep the spa looking newer longer
Protect sensitive parts like headrests, jets, and trim

Many surface issues come from harsh scrubbing or using household cleaners not made for spa materials.

What Materials Are Hot Tub Surfaces Made Of?

Understanding your spa’s construction helps you choose the right cleaner.

Acrylic: Glossy, smooth, and found in most high-end spas. Easy to clean but prone to scratching if abrasive tools are used.
Vinyl: Common in soft-sided or portable spas. More flexible but can absorb cleaners or become discolored if harsh chemicals are used.
Fiberglass: Durable and resistant to some impacts, but can dull or pit with repeated exposure to the wrong pH or strong scrubbing.

Jets, fittings, and plumbing fixtures are often made of plastic or metal, and these components can be damaged by acidic or overly alkaline cleaners.

The Best Tools for Safe Hot Tub Cleaning

You don’t need fancy gear, but you do need non-abrasive tools to protect your surfaces.

Recommended tools:

Soft microfiber cloths for wiping down large areas
Non-abrasive sponges or soft scrub pads for removing buildup
Dedicated spa surface cleaner with a neutral pH
Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush for jet housings
A small bucket for water and cleaner mixing
Vinyl protectant for the spa cover

Avoid using:

Abrasive scrubbers like steel wool
Household bleach, ammonia, or acetone-based cleaners
Magic erasers on shiny acrylic or fiberglass surfaces
Any tool that causes friction or visible scratching

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Hot Tub Safely

Follow these steps every few months, or as needed based on use and visible buildup.

Step 1: Drain the Hot Tub

Shut off power at the breaker to avoid electric shock
Use the hot tub’s built-in drain valve or a submersible pump
Connect a hose to direct the water away from landscaping
Remove the filter and rinse it thoroughly before cleaning the shell

A clean start is essential for effective surface cleaning.

Step 2: Wipe Down the Surfaces

Spray a spa-safe surface cleaner on the interior shell
Use a damp microfiber cloth or soft sponge to wipe it down
Target the waterline, where oils and lotions tend to collect
Let the cleaner sit for 2–3 minutes on stubborn stains, but do not let it dry

For particularly grimy spots, reapply and use a little extra elbow grease, but always with gentle pressure.

Step 3: Use a Brush for Tight Areas

Focus on areas around jets, seats, headrests, and footwells
Use a soft-bristle brush or a designated toothbrush to clean seams and corners
Avoid sharp tools or metal that could nick the surface or cause rust

Brushing helps dislodge buildup that cloths or sponges can’t reach.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse all surfaces with clean water from a hose or bucket
Wipe away remaining residue with a clean, damp cloth
Check for any slick spots, which may indicate leftover cleaner

Leaving behind cleaner residue can cause foaming or irritate skin once the tub is refilled.

Step 5: Dry and Inspect

Use a dry microfiber towel to remove excess water
Inspect all surfaces for cracks, discoloration, or wear
Pay attention to drain caps, filter housings, and jets for signs of wear or mineral buildup

This step helps you catch potential issues before they become expensive repairs.

Optional: Clean and Protect the Cover

Spa covers are exposed to sun, rain, and temperature changes. Keeping them clean helps protect the water and the spa shell.

How to clean your cover:

Remove the cover and lay it flat on a clean surface
Wipe off loose dirt with a dry cloth or soft brush
Use mild soap and water with a non-abrasive sponge
Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel
Apply a UV-protectant conditioner made for vinyl covers

Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the vinyl coating or cause cracking.

Tips for Preventing Future Buildup

Keeping the tub clean between deep cleans makes maintenance easier and extends its life.

Shower before entering to reduce oils and product buildup
Rinse swimsuits that may have detergent residue before use
Use a floating scum sponge to collect oils from the surface
Add spa enzyme products weekly to help break down organics
Test and balance water weekly to prevent chemical scaling
Replace filters every 12–18 months for optimal water clarity

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Using household cleaners: These can disrupt water balance and damage sensitive surfaces
Skipping rinsing: Leftover cleaners foam and irritate skin
Forgetting to shut off power: Working on a live hot tub is dangerous
Over-scrubbing: More pressure doesn’t mean better results
Letting cleaner dry on surfaces: This can leave stains or dull the finish

Be consistent and gentle. A hot tub is an investment that rewards regular, careful maintenance. With the right tools, techniques, and habits, you can keep your spa looking new without risking surface damage or costly repairs.