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Are Hot Tubs Hygienic? The Facts You Need to Know

Are hot tubs hygienic? Short answer: Yes, but only if you look after them properly. Neglect the basics, and you might be soaking in more than just bubbles. Whether it’s a sleek acrylic hot tub on your patio, a hardy rotomoulded one tucked beside your garden, or a charming wooden tub up at the cabin, hygiene is what turns a hot soak into a safe one.

And don’t worry, keeping it clean isn’t rocket science. It’s about habits, not hassle. Stick around, and we’ll uncover what keeps hot tubs sparkling and safe... and what happens when things go, well, murky.

Acrylic hot tub on tropical hillside deck with blue LED lighting.

The Challenge of Keeping Hot Tubs Clean

Warm Water Environment and Bacterial Growth

Warm water is blissful for sore muscles, but it’s also paradise for bacteria. In the cosy, steamy world of your hot tub, microorganisms like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Legionella feel right at home.

Here’s the kicker: the higher the temperature, the faster bacteria multiply. Add a few bathers, some sunscreen, body oils, and the occasional snack mishap, and suddenly your spa is working overtime to stay clean.

Because hot tubs have less water than swimming pools, even small contaminants build up fast. This means one skipped clean-up or forgotten chlorine dose can turn your tub into a bacteria breeding ground in no time.

Risks Associated with Poor Hot Tub Hygiene

Common Infections (Folliculitis, Legionnaires’, etc.)

Ever heard of hot tub rash? That’s folliculitis, and it’s more common than you think. Caused by the Pseudomonas bacteria, it leads to itchy red bumps that look like a breakout, not the spa day souvenir you wanted.

But it’s not just about skin. Inhaling steam from a poorly maintained tub could expose you to Legionella, which causes Legionnaires' disease, a serious lung infection. It’s rare, but it happens, especially in tubs with old filters or neglected sanitiser levels.

The takeaway? Clean water isn't just about clarity, it’s about protecting your health.

Skin Rashes and Irritation

If your post-soak glow feels more like a rash, your tub might be the culprit. Chemical imbalances are usually to blame. When the pH is off or sanitiser levels are too high, your skin pays the price.

Dryness, stinging eyes, and itchy patches are all signs that something’s not right. And for people with sensitive skin or eczema, a dirty hot tub can make things worse.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a luxury acrylic spa or a rustic wooden tub; if it’s not balanced, it’s not safe.

Essential Maintenance for a Hygienic Hot Tub

Wooden hot tub with blue interior on backyard deck with steam rising.

Proper Water Chemistry and Sanitisation

Getting water chemistry right is like setting the stage for everything else. The magic numbers? pH between 7.2 and 7.8, and chlorine or bromine at 1–3 ppm. That’s your bacteria-fighting sweet spot.

Testing should become part of your routine. Use strips two to three times a week, especially after heavy use or bad weather.

And if you’re using a wooden hot tub, keep in mind the sanitising approach might differ slightly, some natural tubs require gentler methods, but the goal stays the same: safe, clean water.

Regular Cleaning, Draining, and Filter Care

Even crystal-clear water can be misleading. Daily and weekly cleaning are your best defence. Start by skimming the surface to catch leaves and bugs. Wipe the waterline weekly to stop scum build-up.

Draining your hot tub every three to four months is non-negotiable. If you use your tub more often (or have friends over every weekend), you might need to drain it more frequently.

Filters are often forgotten, but they’re the MVPs of hot tub hygiene. Rinse them weekly, deep-clean monthly, and replace them annually. Without this step, your sanitiser won’t work as it should, no matter how much you add.

Rotomoulded hot tub on stone patio with garden view and inflatable toys.

Conclusion: Hygiene Depends Critically on Maintenance

So, are hot tubs hygienic? If you commit to the care. Left unchecked, your relaxing spa can become a health hazard. But when maintained properly, it's a personal wellness retreat you’ll love for years.

Think of it like this: clean water is happy water. Regular testing, balanced chemistry, and filter TLC are your spa’s secret weapons.

No matter if you’re lounging in an acrylic hot tub in the city or a rotomoulded one under the stars, the golden rule is simple: keep it clean, keep it safe.

Your hot tub is a place to unwind, not worry. And with a bit of routine care, you can keep it that way.

Next article Should I Always Shower After Using a Hot Tub?