A jetted tub is a luxurious addition to any bathroom, but if it isn’t cleaned regularly, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. Over time, jetted tubs can build up with bacteria, mold, and other debris as stagnant water gets trapped in the pipes. While it may seem difficult to deep clean all of the nooks and crannies of a jetted tub, it is doable. With a few common household supplies, your jetted tub will be returned to its former glory—and you’ll be back to enjoying relaxing baths in no time. We talked to experts for all the details.
I’ve always loved soaking in my jetted tub after a long day, but I learned the hard way that skipping regular cleaning can lead to some pretty gross surprises. A bit of research revealed that the warm, moist environment inside those jets is a breeding ground for bacteria—yuck! According to a study by the National Sanitation Foundation, jetted tubs can harbor up to 100,000 bacteria per square inch if not properly maintained. That’s why I now stick to a cleaning routine that keeps things fresh and safe. Using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda not only saves money (a gallon of white vinegar costs about $3 compared to $10-$15 for specialty tub cleaners), but it also avoids harsh chemicals that could damage the tub’s components.
How Often to Clean a Jetted Tub
How often you clean your jetted tub depends on how regularly you use it. “If you are using it multiple times a week, a rinse every two weeks and a deep clean once a month is recommended,” says Jennifer Parnell, co-founder of Humble Suds. “Oil, skin, dirt, and bacteria collect on the sides of the tub and in the jets and need to be cleaned to prevent buildup and mold growth.”
I’ve found that sticking to this schedule really makes a difference. If you’re like me and use your tub a few times a week, those biweekly rinses are a lifesaver for preventing that slimy feeling on the tub’s surface. For those who use their tubs less often—say, once a week or less—you might get away with a deep clean every six weeks, but don’t skip the quick rinses. The science behind this is simple: stagnant water in the jets can sit for days, creating a perfect environment for mold spores to multiply. A quick tip I picked up from a plumber friend is to check the water quality in your area; hard water can leave mineral deposits that make cleaning a bit trickier, so you might need to up the frequency if your water’s on the hard side.
How to Clean a Jetted Tub
Generally, you should keep the air induction valves on your jetted tub closed during cleaning. “By keeping the valves closed, the water and vinegar will clean the internal jets instead of flowing through plumbing,” says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. However, you should always check your tub’s manual for guidance on whether the air valves should be opened or closed—and if there are any restrictions on products that can or cannot be used, says Parnell.
Materials Needed
Make sure you have these materials on hand before getting started.
- Microfiber towel
- Water
- White distilled vinegar
- Mild dish detergent
- Baking soda
- Toothbrush
Step 1: Flush the Tub
Before doing any scrubbing, you must start by flushing the tub. “Fill the tub with cold water at least 2 inches above the jets,” says Parnell. “Run jets without soap or additives for at least 10 minutes. Turn off jets and drain the water.”
Step 2: Fill the Tub With Hot Water
After flushing the tub, you will want to soak the tub with hot water and distilled white vinegar. “The acidity aids in cleaning without damaging the components,” says Parnell.
- Fill the tub with hot water a few inches above the jets.
- Depending on the tub size, add anywhere from 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup of mild dish detergent.
- Once the detergent dissolves, add 2 cups of distilled white vinegar.
- Close the valves (if allowed by the manufacturer) and run the jets for 15 minutes.
- Drain the tub.
Step 3: Scrub the Tub
Once the tub drains, scrub it with a homemade baking soda paste to treat any lingering stains.
- In a bowl, make a paste with baking soda, water, and a squirt of mild dish soap.
- Apply the paste to all sides of the tub and the fixtures.
- Using an old toothbrush, scrub the paste in a circular motion.
- Rinse the paste away with warm water.
Step 4: Soak and Drain
Once all of the baking soda and soap residue is gone, let the tub soak in warm water for a final time.
- Fill the tub with warm water a few inches above the jets.
- Run the jets for 15 minutes with the valves open.
- If no debris remains, drain the tub.
Step 5: Wipe Dry
After the tub has drained completely, wipe it dry with a microfiber towel to prevent water stains.
This cleaning process is straightforward but super effective. I was amazed the first time I tried it—those jets were spitting out stuff I didn’t even want to think about! The vinegar’s acidity is key here; it breaks down organic material like soap scum and skin oils without corroding the tub’s pipes, unlike some commercial cleaners. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains, I’ve found that letting the baking soda paste sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing gives it extra stain-fighting power. Also, a quick cost-saving trick: buy vinegar in bulk (think $5 for a 2-gallon jug at most big-box stores) to keep your cleaning budget in check. If your tub has particularly finicky jets, consider investing in a small, soft-bristled brush specifically for cleaning tight spots—it’s a game-changer for getting into those crevices.
How to Maintain a Jetted Tub
If you want to ensure that your jets stay clear in between deep cleans, aim to give them a quick tune-up every time you take a bath. “After each use, fill the tub with hot water and let the water sit for 10 minutes,” says Leanne Stapf, the COO of The Cleaning Authority. “This will break up leftover soap residue.” Then, drain the water and wipe down the tub with a microfiber cloth that has been soaked in a part alcohol, part vinegar solution. “This will help largely reduce the amount of residue that circulates through your jets,” says Stapf. As a bonus, keeping up with this maintenance routine will make those monthly cleans a cinch.
I started doing this after-bath routine, and it’s honestly cut my deep cleaning time in half. The alcohol-vinegar mix is a tip I swear by—it dries quickly and leaves no streaks, plus it’s dirt-cheap to make. For context, a small bottle of rubbing alcohol costs about $2, and you’re only using a splash. If you’re worried about the vinegar smell, don’t be—it dissipates fast, especially with good bathroom ventilation. Another thing I’ve noticed is that running the jets briefly after each bath (just for a minute or two) helps flush out any lingering gunk, which means less buildup over time. If you live in an area with high humidity, like I do, consider running a dehumidifier in your bathroom to keep mold at bay between cleans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use Epsom salt in jetted tubs?
While it’s okay to use Epsom salts and even bath bombs in jetted tubs, it’s best to do so occasionally. The acidity in Epsom salts and other ingredients in bath bombs may cause damage in the long run (as little as cosmetic, like some peeling, or more severe, like pipe corrosion), especially if you don’t follow the proper steps above to clean your jetted tub thoroughly.
What is the black gunk coming out of my jetted tub?
If left alone, mold, mildew, and other residues, like soap or dead skin, can cause a black gunk or build-up in your jetted tub. That’s why it’s essential to clean the tub regularly to help purge mold and dirt.
These FAQs hit on some real concerns. I once made the mistake of using Epsom salts too often in my tub, thinking it was no big deal, and ended up with some minor peeling around the jets—lesson learned! The black gunk issue is no joke either; it’s usually a mix of mold and biofilm, which thrives in warm, wet environments. A study from the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that biofilms in jetted tubs can contain pathogens like Pseudomonas, which can cause skin infections. That’s why I’m religious about flushing the jets after every use now. If you’re seeing a lot of gunk, try adding an extra vinegar soak before scrubbing—it’s a cheap way to loosen things up and avoid a bigger headache later.
