A hot tub offers relaxation at the highest level and is a fantastic addition to any garden. To safeguard water quality, however, good hygiene is essential. Here you'll find out what matters for proper hot tub hygiene.
Hot tub care basics
A hygienic hot tub requires regular cleaning and care. Otherwise, bacteria and fungi could multiply and pose health risks.
Key terms in this context are cleaning and disinfection. These measures ensure that the water in your hot tub stays hygienic and clean.
Hot tub hygiene: what to consider before use
Dirt and insects should be removed regularly with a skimmer net. Taking a shower before using the hot tub is recommended to remove soap residue and personal care products.
If your hot tub is outdoors, a garden shower nearby can be handy. Anyone with open wounds or gastrointestinal illnesses should stay out of the hot tub so as not to compromise the water quality.
Summary of the basic rules for hot tub hygiene:
- Remove leaves and insects regularly
- Shower before using the hot tub
- Don't use it if you have wounds or are unwell
Weekly water care and pH checks
The water should be disinfected weekly, using either chlorine or bromine tablets. The pH of the water is decisive for the disinfecting effect and for your wellbeing.
A pH between 7.0 and 7.5 is ideal. A higher value can lead to skin irritation and limescale deposits, while a lower value can cause corrosion and irritation.
For thorough weekly care, we recommend the Pool chemicals + cleaning set starter kit from Spa Solutions. This set contains everything you need to keep the water in your hot tub clear, fresh and hygienic:
1x tub of PH Minus
1x tub of PH Plus
1x bottle of anti-limescale agent
1x bottle of water clarifier
1x tub of Chlorine Multitabs 5 in 1 (also available with active oxygen for those with a chlorine allergy)
1x box of test tablets for pH and chlorine levels
1x bottle of aromatherapy
1x floating dispenser
1x spa skimmer net
1x spa brush
1x high-quality spa microfibre cloth
1x microfibre glove
1x Spa Ball
1x bottle of Spa Protect & Clean for hot tub surfaces (350ml)
This comprehensive set ensures excellent hot tub hygiene.
Monthly cleaning of the hot tub filter
The filter must be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and impurities. It should be rinsed off with a garden hose.
The filter housing should also be cleaned, ideally with a hot tub cleaner or a 50 ppm dichlor solution. The filter is soaked in a degreasing liquid and then disinfected with a chlorine solution.
Filter cleaning at a glance:
- Rinse the filter regularly with a garden hose
- Clean the filter housing with a cleaner
- Soak the filter in a degreasing liquid
- Disinfect the filter with a chlorine solution
Pumps and filtration systems
An efficient pump and a reliable filtration system are essential for hot tub hygiene. Sand filter systems and paper filter cartridges are the most common options.
Sand filters trap dirt particles and let clean water through. Paper filters are suitable for smaller hot tubs and filter out dirt through special paper pleats.
Chemical cleaning
Chemical treatment of hot tub water covers pH, alkalinity and hardness. Chlorine and bromine are the main sanitisers.
Algaecides, clarifiers and defoamers can also be used. It's important not to mix incompatible products, as this could be dangerous.
Remember: It's important to check and adjust the pH of the water regularly to avoid skin irritation and limescale deposits.
Mechanical cleaning for good hot tub hygiene
The surfaces of the hot tub should be cleaned regularly. The same applies to the plumbing, which needs to be descaled and disinfected. The floor and walls should be scrubbed and vacuumed, especially before and after the hot tub season.
Common hot tub hygiene problems
Cloudy water can result from an incorrect chemical balance and should be resolved by adjusting the pH. Foam in the water often points to residues of care products or detergents.
Algae growth can be prevented by using algaecides. If the water smells unpleasant, disinfection should be stepped up.
Remember: Regularly checking and adjusting the water chemistry helps prevent common problems such as cloudy water and foam.
Spa Solutions products and accessories for optimal hot tub hygiene

Regular care and thorough cleaning are essential for your hot tub's hygiene. With the right products and techniques, you'll ensure flawless water quality and can enjoy the full benefits of your hot tub.
Spa Solutions offers high-quality cleaning sets and accessories for hot tub care. These include brushes, special cleaning products and test strips for checking water quality. Our team will be happy to answer any questions.
FAQ
Are hot tubs hygienic?
Yes, hot tubs can be hygienic if they're cleaned regularly and the water is treated properly. A combination of chemical disinfection and mechanical cleaning ensures clean, safe bathing water.
What do you need to pay attention to for hot tub hygiene?
Key aspects are regular disinfection of the water and checking the pH. In addition, filters and pumps should be kept clean and the hot tub's surfaces cleaned regularly.

