What is a whirlpool bathtub?

A whirlpool tub, also called a jetted tub, is a bathtub that has built-in water jets made to propel water for massaging purposes.

Before you start cleaning whirlpool tubs

Not all jetted bathtubs can be cleaned the same way others would. Make sure to check your manufacturer's manual and/or recommendations on whether they want you to close the air induction valves or not. If you can't find that information, a simple Google search or calling the company's customer service should answer that question.

How to clean a jetted tub with baking soda

What you will need:

• bottle brush or toothbrush
• white vinegar
• baking soda
• bucket
• dishwasher tablet or dishwashing liquid
• microfiber cloth
• sponge

Step 1: Clean a jetted tub with a sponge

Wipe away any hair and black gunk using a wet sponge or a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Fill the tub with hot water

Fill the tub with hot water up to the jet level.

Step 3: Add a cleaning solution

Add two tbsps of dishwashing liquid to the hot water or dissolve a tablet in a cup before adding it to the tub. Then, add two cups of white vinegar.

If you only have powdered dish detergent and not liquid, add 4 tbsps and mix the water.

Sidenote:

DO NOT use dishwashing liquid for handwashing dishes as it will produce too many bubbles

Step 4: Turn on the jets

Unless the owner's manual instructed you to leave the air induction valves open, turn off the air induction valves to the jets. By doing this, the water with the cleaning solution will be forced to circulate only through the internal plumbing of the tub and perform a deeper cleaning. Run the jets on full capacity for 15 minutes. You will begin to see all the gunk from internal plumbing washing into the tub.

Step 5: Drain the tub

Turn off the jets and drain the tub. Using a soft cloth or a sponge, wipe away the debris that has been leftover from draining.

Step 6: Fill the jetted tub again

Make the tub fill a second time with warm water several inches above the jets.

Step 7: Run the jet nozzles

With opened air induction valves, run the jet nozzles on full capacity for another 15 minutes. Drain the whirlpool tub again.

Step 8: Clean the jets

Put baking soda inside a cup or bowl, enough for you to dip into. Get an old toothbrush and dip it into the dry baking soda. Use the brush to gently scrub the jacuzzi jets.

Step 9: Clean the air intake cover

After unscrewing the air intake cover, gently scrub the area with the same toothbrush and baking soda but dipped into water beforehand.

Step 10: Clean the inside of the whirlpool tub

Sprinkle baking soda all over the surface of the jet tub and start scrubbing with a sponge. The baking soda will help you remove soap scum and the greasy residue.

Step 11: Rinse the jetted tub

When you have scrubbed off all of the tub's surfaces, get a bucket of cold water to rinse the whirlpool tub. After, use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the walls of the bathtub to prevent water spots.

Alternatives for cleaning jetted tubs

The method shown above has been used over and over but consists of a lot of work that requires you to drain the tub multiple times, scrub the jets, and rinse. However, there is a method that is not so talked about yet that will only require you to have jetted tub cleaner.

Using a steam cleaner for cleaning a jetted tub

Steam cleaning has been gaining popularity over the last decade in commercial disinfecting projects like car wash businesses, medical facilities, and the cleaning of floors and carpets. However, people are not familiar that steam cleaners can literally clean anything in your home!

What is a steam cleaner?

Fortador Volt MINI is ideal for cleaning and disinfection of homes. Over the past several years, steam cleaning has become the preferred method for cleaning and sanitizing a variety of things. Steaming's biggest advantage is its ability to kill and remove more than 99% of bacteria, viruses, germs, and other pathogens.

Fortador Volt Mini steam cleaner

This highly portable steam cleaner is lightweight, weighing only 16.5 lbs, allowing consumers to move it easily in and out of a work van and transport it to the worksite. Similar to the other Fortador steamers, the Volt MINI's boiler heats quickly, taking only five minutes to produce steam. Unlike other small commercial portable steamers for cleaning, the Volt MINI also works at high pressure and temperatures, giving you 101.5 psi power of steam at a maximum temperature of 338 degrees Fahrenheit. The builder is made of high-strength AISI 304 stainless steel, attesting to its durability.

Like the other Fortador steam cleaners, the Volt MINI comes with an impeccable selection of accessories and attachments (including a steam mop). First off, you get a 15-foot hose, which is five feet longer than the hoses you get from most other commercial-grade steam cleaning units. When combined with its long power cord, you can get this cleaner into hard to reach spaces that larger steamers can't go in. Then, you get various different attachments to deep clean after construction, tiles and wood floors, carpeting, upholstery, and even the bath tile.

How to perform a clean of a jetted tub with a steam cleaner (regular cleaning)

What you will need:

• steam cleaner
• cold water
• clean rag
• sponge
• an old toothbrush or bottle brush

Step 1: Clean a whirlpool tub with a sponge

Wipe away any hair and black stuff using a wet sponge or a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Steam clean a jetted tub

When your steamer is ready to use, insert the jet nozzle attachment on the gun and start steaming the walls of the jetted tub. You should move from the top of the bath downwards, to avoid getting scum all over the bath.

Step 3: Steam clean the jets

Begin steam cleaning the jets one by one. The gunk should start coming out of them.

Step 4: Run the jets

Turn on the jets to make sure all the gunk has come out from the inside. When the gunk stops coming out, turn off the jets. Using a bottle brush, finish cleaning the jets by scrubbing them and steaming more in between if more pressure is needed.

Step 5: Rinse the tub

Steam the surface of your jetted tub to make sure everything has come off and the tub is disinfected.

How to perform a deeper clean of jetted tubs with a steam cleaner

What you will need:

• steam cleaner
• cold water
• clean rag
• sponge
• an old toothbrush or bottle brush
• baking soda
• dental floss

Step 1: Clean a jetted tub with a sponge

Wipe away any hair and black stuff using a wet sponge or a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Steam clean a whirlpool tub

When your steamer is ready to use, insert the jet nozzle attachment on the gun and start steaming the walls of the jetted tub. You should move from the top of the bath downwards, to avoid getting scum all over the tub.

Step 3: Steam clean the jets

Begin steam cleaning the jets one by one. Black gunk should start coming out of them.

Step 4: Run the jets

Turn on the jets to make sure all the gunk has come out from the inside. When the gunk stops coming out, turn off the jets. Using a bottle brush, finish cleaning the jets by scrubbing them and steaming more in between if more pressure is needed. Using a strand of dental floss, get behind the air intake cover.

Step 5: Rinse the tub

Steam the surface of your whirlpool tub to make sure everything has come off and the tub is disinfected.

Safety precautions and warnings

Before using any cleaning solution, carefully read the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines to ensure compatibility with your specific jetted tub model. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can cause scratches on the tub's surfaces.

Additionally, be cautious with the use of bleach, as it can be too harsh for the gaskets in the tub and dry them out. Always ensure that the jets are covered by at least a few inches of water before starting them to prevent damage to the motor.

Lastly, when handling cleaning agents, wear protective gloves and ensure proper ventilation in the bathroom to avoid any potential irritations or reactions.

Cleaning tips to keep your jetted tubs in top shape

• Do not use bubble baths or bath oils for your jetted tub as it can clog the jets
• If you want to use bleach for your whirlpool tub, make sure to read the manual or check online before starting. Even though bleach is great, it can be too harsh for the gaskets in the tub and dry them out.
• Stay away from using an abrasive cleaner for your tub. These types of cleaners tend to leave scratches on the surfaces of jetted tubs.
• A deep clean of the jetted tub regularly (once a month) will help you achieve best results
• 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.
• Most whirlpool tubs can be cleaned with baking soda and vinegar, so you do not need to spend extra money on a cleaning agent right away.

FAQs

How do you clean the filters on a whirlpool tub?

If you notice a decrease in water pressure or your filter looks visibly dirty/clogged, it’s probably time to give it a clean. Remove the filter, wash it off, and replace it. If you want a deeper clean, soak the filter overnight in a cleaning solution, then rinse before replacing it.

When should I call a cleaning service to clean my jetted tub?

Even though this guide shows you multiple ways to clean a jetted tub, calling a professional might not be a bad idea if you do not have time.

How long do jetted bathtubs last?

Depending on the maintenance, a whirlpool tub can last between 20 to 50 years.

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