How to Remove Stains From an Inflatable Hot Tub

Inflatable hot tubs are popular due to their easy maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you can completely neglect to maintain them. Occasionally, inflatable hot tubs can become stained, and it can be challenging to remove these stains.

If this staining has happened to your inflatable hot tub and you don’t know how to fix it, this article will show you how to remove stains from an inflatable hot tub, as well as how to keep your inflatable hot tub clean. Keep reading!

3 Ways to Remove Stains From an Inflatable Hot Tub

There are three options when it comes to removing stains from an inflatable hot tub: diluted bleach, hot tub cleaner, and (with care), mildew remover. All three options are unique in how they work and how you should approach them:

1. Use Diluted Bleach 

Diluted bleach should be the first option for removing stains in your inflatable hot tub. It works because it breaks down organic residue and kills the bacteria that are the most common causes of staining and discoloration in inflatable hot tubs. 

How to Use Diluted Bleach to Clean an Inflatable Hot Tub

Using diluted bleach to clean your inflatable hot tub is rather simple: all you need is a diluted bleach mix, a soft cloth, and some clean water for rinsing.

1. To make your diluted bleach, mix one tablespoon of bleach with one gallon of water. 
2. Then, soak a soft cloth in this solution and use it to gently wipe the stain. 
3. Wait for a few minutes for the solution to break down the stain, then wipe it again with your cloth. Rinse under clean water to remove the bleach scent.

One mistake you should never make is to use undiluted bleach to clean an inflatable hot tub. Undiluted bleach is too strong and could break down the vinyl material your inflatable hot tub is made of. Diluted bleach is strong enough to kill the bacteria, but not strong enough to damage your hot tub.

2. Use Hot Tub Cleaner 

Another great option for cleaning stains from an inflatable hot tub is to simply use a dedicated hot tub cleaner.  These cleaners are specifically made for PVC and vinyl, which makes them great for protecting the hot tub from any cleaning-related damage.

Thanks to their specific formula, hot tub cleaners can lift dirt and oil stains quickly, provided that stains sit on the surface instead of inside the material.

How to Use Hot Tub Cleaner to Clean an Inflatable Hot Tub

1. With these cleaners, you don’t have to make your own mixture. You simply apply the cleaner directly to the stain. 
2. Then, wait for a few minutes until the cleaner starts to do its magic. Usually, there are instructions on the bottle on how long you should wait. 
3. When that time has elapsed, use a gentle, non-abrasive cloth to remove the cleaner and stain. 
4. You can rinse it with clean water, but it’s not necessary, as these hot tub cleaners usually don’t leave residue. 

3. Use Mildew Remover 

This is probably the strongest option, but it is also the riskiest one. Mildew removers are great at killing mold and mildew-related stains, but they can also dry out or fade vinyl, a material that most inflatable hot tubs are made of. If you still want to try this option, do it with caution. 

How to Use Mildew Remover to Clean an Inflatable Hot Tub

1. Choose a gentle mildew remover and don’t use it immediately. 
2. Instead, test it on a small and hidden area and wait a minute to see how it reacts with the surface. Then, rinse it to avoid damage. 
3. If there is no damage to the surface, you can assume that this mildew remover is safe to use. However, if you notice any damage, don’t use it. Instead, choose a gentler option.

Tips for Keeping Your Inflatable Hot Tub Clean

Prevention is always better than having to deal with stubborn stains. Keeping your inflatable hot tub clean will prevent these nasty stains from even appearing:

• Wipe the surfaces regularly and rinse the whole thing after each use. 
• Keep the water balanced to reduce mineral stains
• Cover the hot tub to keep out grime, dirt, and debris 
• Empty your hor rub occasionally to prevent buildup. 
• Don’t use any unnecessary products on your skin, such as lotions and creams, as they can leave stains on your hot tub.

When is it Time to Get a New Inflatable Hot Tub?

Taking good care of your inflatable hot tub and cleaning it regularly can significantly prolong its lifespan. Learning how to remove stains from an inflatable hot tub can make your inflatable hot tub last for years. 

However, there is only so much you can do. Eventually, your inflatable hot tub will lose its durability, functionality, and even its aesthetic appeal. 

That’s why you’ll need to get a new inflatable hot tub, sooner or later. There are several signs that you should do it: 

• The vinyl/PVC has become brittle, and you can see cracks and wrinkles 
• The stains on your hot tub are no longer surface-deep, and they have penetrated the material
• Persistent leaks are another sign. Most inflatable hot tubs come with repair patches that can fix occasional holes and leaks. However, that shouldn’t happen all the time
• The pump is struggling to circulate water, and it overheats easily
• The heaters are no longer as efficient as they were before, and your hot tub takes more time to get hot enough
• The tub is no longer holding its shape, with visible sagging around the edges and slumping in certain areas.

Affordable Inflatable Hot Tubs Under $400 

Having to replace your inflatable hot tub might seem like another expense that will burden your tight budget. However, it is possible to find high-quality inflatable hot tubs for under $400. Here are some of your options:

1. CO-Z 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub with 120 Bubble Jets

This inflatable hot tub can heat up to 158 gallons of water to 104°F. It uses 120 jets to create a relaxing spa experience for up to four adults in a durable PVC build. If you take good care of it, it can remain stain-free and last for years:

2. 6x6 ft Portable 4-Person Spa with Cover, 120 Bubble Jets

This 4-person inflatable hot tub uses 120 high-powered jets to create relaxing bubbles. It is made of a durable, puncture-resistant PVC. This is an extremely popular product because it assembles easily and includes an intuitive control panel, a detachable cover, and fresh filter cartridges: 

Conclusion

In this article, you have learned how to remove stains from an inflatable hot tub, as well as how to maintain it and get the most out of it. There are three main ways you can remove stains, but make sure not to damage the hot tub material.

If the stains are too stubborn and your hot tub is showing other signs of wear and tear, maybe it is time to buy a new one. 

You might be interested in a complete guide on how to clean and change inflatable hot tub filters.