Clean a Jetted Bathtub

Have you ever taken a bath in your jetted tub and had black flakes or brown scum appear? Your jetted bathtub - also known as a whirlpool bath or Jacuzzi® tub - is a haven for bacteria and mold. These uninvited additions to your bath grow in warm, damp pipes, and can make you sick.

A jetted bath is different from a spa or hot tub. It is installed in a bathroom and filled every time you want to use it. A hot tub or spa is typically installed outside. It is filled once and kept hot. The water in a hot tub has to be treated with chemicals to keep it clean.

Because jetted bathtubs don't have chemicals to kill bacteria, they have to be cleaned. It's important to clean the jets regularly to keep your tub enjoyable. Here's an easy, inexpensive way to do it.

Steps

 * 1)  Check manufacturer instructions and cleaner labels to make sure the cleaners won't hurt your tub.
 * 2)  Fill the tub approximately 3 inches above the the highest jets with hot water.
 * 3)  Turn off the air induction valve.
 * 4)  Add 1/4 cup of a low-foaming disinfectant (such as powdered dishwasher detergent) to the water. Calgonite or Cascade powder are good choices.
 * 5)  Add 1/2 cup of household bleach to the water.
 * 6)  Run the jets for 10-15 minutes. Set the jets to the highest pressure.
 * 7)  Drain the tub and refill it with cold water.
 * 8)  Run the jets for another 10 minutes as a rinse.
 * 9)  Drain the tub.
 * 10)  Wipe the tub clean with a soft cloth.

Tips

 * If bleach is not advised, use 1 cup of white vinegar instead.
 * Repeat the cleaning once a month or more often if necessary.
 * Optionally, you can use a specialty tub cleaner instead of detergent and bleach. Tub dealers, manufacturers, and many online plumbing suppliers sell these cleaners. They usually guarantee results, but are much more expensive.
 * There are also professional cleaning companies that will clean your tub, but they are the most expensive option.

Warnings

 * Never start the jets unless they are covered by at least a few inches of water. If the jets are exposed, the motor will be damaged. If the jets are covered but the water is too shallow, they may spray water upwards, bathing your walls instead.
 * Never use foaming cleaners or bubble bath in your tub. The effect will be overwhelming - and overflowing.
 * Bath oils and lotions leave residue in the pipes as well. You should never use them in a hot tub.
 * Ventilate the room while using the cleaners. Bleach fumes can be dangerous in poorly ventilated areas.
 * Do not leave children unattended near a tub.

Things You'll Need

 * 1/4 cup of a low-foaming disinfectant, such as powdered dishwasher detergent
 * 1/2 cup of household bleach

Related Tips and Steps

 * How to Choose a Bathtub
 * How to Clean a Shower/Tub the Easy Way