What to clean inflatable hot tub with

Do you need inflatable hot tub tips? Yes, inflatable hot tubs exist, and though they are smaller than their traditional cousins, they have a growing fan base. Just like the name sounds, they are hot tubs that you blow up with air. They are connected to heaters and pumps and have all the components needed to get the water hot and bubbling. What are the pros and cons of having an inflatable hot tub, and how do you care for them?

Inflatable Hot Tubs Benefits

Inflataspa lays out the good and bad of owning an inflatable hot tub. The first benefit is obvious: They cost much less than in-ground spas. On average, the latter can run from $15,000 to $20,000 for custom versions. You can find fabricated ones for less, but they are still pricey at about $3,000 to $8,000. Entry-level inflatable hot tubs start around $500.

Another positive aspect to inflatable hot tubs is that they can be used indoors and outdoors provided that you have enough space and adequate structural support. Many people do not use their outdoor hot tubs in the winter since getting out of the tub and facing cold air can be quite unpleasant. An inflatable hot tub can be a great place to relax indoors during the colder seasons, and you can also pack it up and take it to other places, like a vacation home. If you do choose to only use it for part of the year, there is no maintenance needed in the off seasons.

Blow-up hot tubs are also sturdier than you might think. They can support a lot of weight, and the seating is soft and comfortable. Regular hot tubs generally have seating made from hard plastic or concrete, which does not feel as good against the skin.

Inflatable Hot Tub Drawbacks

Depending on how often the hot tub is used, it could cost more to run than a traditional spa. Utility companies charge different rates for electricity throughout the year, so if you use the inflatable tub frequently indoors in the winter, you could be hit with a higher bill.

Your electric bill could be higher because inflatable hot tubs use electricity, which takes longer to heat. It takes about one hour for the water to rise every 2 to 3 degrees. Some people keep their tubs heated for long periods of time, so this may not be an issue. In any case, allow one day to heat up the inflatable spa before using it.

The seating can also be a con if you prefer built-in seats. Inflatable hot tubs seats conform to the body, which you may or may not like. Some do not even have seating, and you simply sit on the bottom. This is nice and cushioned, but this setup may not meet your needs.

Inflatable Hot Tub Instructions

DoItYourself.com explains that inflatable hot tubs may include their own electric pump, or you may need to use your own. The tub will include a pump for circulating the water plus a heating unit to heat the water. There should also be a water filter to keep things clean and to protect the jets and pump. When you are ready to use the tub, place it on the floor or ground and connect an electric inflation pump to the tub’s inflation valve. Filling it with air should take a few minutes or so.

After the tub is filled, make sure that it feels rigid to the touch and that it is sitting square on the ground. You may need to connect the water pump and water heater if they are in a separate unit. These instructions should be included with the hot tub. According to Tub Headquarters, you may need to assemble some of these units, especially if they are sold separately. Once this is all done, you can plug it into a 110-volt outlet.

The manual should also explain how to attach the water filter, and this varies by manufacturer. Also, check for a drain cover and make sure it is attached. Check to determine the proper level of water for filling the tub. Keep this information handy as you are filling it with your hose and take care not to overfill. Turn on the heater, put on the cover and get your bathing suit ready.

Taking Care of Inflatable Tubs

No one wants to soak in a dirty tub, so inflatable hot tub maintenance is key to an enjoyable, relaxing experience. It is good to test the water’s pH and alkalinity with a testing kit; some inflatable hot tubs include these with the purchase. If not, you can easily find these kits at pool and spa supply outlets.

You want to aim for 7.2 to 7.8 pH for these tubs, explains Outdoor Living, and if the pH is too low, it could damage the vinyl. Check for this once a week and adjust as necessary. This is easily done with the tablets included in the pH kit. It is also best to sanitize the water with a sanitizing solution before every use. If it has not been used often, make sure to sanitize the tub once a week; experts also advise using other chemicals to keep hot tubs clean, like calcium and oxidizers.

The filter also needs to be cleaned once a week. The filter is usually found on the outside, by the heating unit or near the ground. The manual should explain how to clean it, but it is usually done with a paper towel. Unscrew the top of the filter compartment, wipe out anything that is inside and flush it under tap water. These filters can clog more often than other hot tub filters, so if you see debris in the tub, the filter could need an extra cleaning.

More Inflatable Hot Tub Tips

You can clean the inside of your inflatable hot tub with clean water and a soft cloth, but the vinyl can get stained or turn yellow. Do not use soaps or detergents since they leave a residue that can damage the filter and jets and create loads of unwanted bubbles. A gentle soap works better.

Drain the hot tub every three to four weeks when in use. While it’s empty, clean it out with a mild detergent and water. You can use your hose to fill the tub for cleaning and a sponge to gently scrub it. Allow the hot tub to dry completely before folding and storing or it may develop mold or mildew.

If you are shopping for an inflatable hot tub, there are plenty of options available. Some of the most popular ones are made by Lay Z Spa. Lay Z Spa maintenance is pretty much the same as other inflatable hot tubs, but read the manufacturer’s instructions to be safe. Coleman also makes a line of inflatable hot tubs in different sizes; Backyard Boss rates their top five, leading with the 13804 model. Weighing in at 73.1 pounds, it can hold up to four people, heats up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and has a soft, cushioned floor.

Things You Will Need

• pH kit

• Sanitizing solution

• Calcium

• Oxidizers
  

• Paper towels

• Cloths
  

• Mild detergent

• Hose
  

• Sponge

What is the best thing to clean the inside of a hot tub?

What should I wipe my hot tub down with?

What can I clean my lazy spa hot tub with?

How do you clean a stained inflatable hot tub?