It is important to keep an inflatable hot tub clean and free of germs if you want it to last and be safe to use. But over time, as wetness and organic matter build up, these nice places to relax can become a good place for mold to grow. Mold is not only bad for your health, but it can also hurt the hot tub’s materials. To have a clean and healthy hot tub experience, you need to know how to clean mold well.
In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to deal with mold problems in your inflatable hot tub in a safe and effective way. We’ll talk about everything, from how to spot the signs of mold to how to choose the right cleaning products and tools. Also, we’ll give you helpful care tips to stop mold from growing again, making sure that your inflatable hot tub stays a relaxing oasis for years to come. Use these tried-and-true methods to clean your hot tub and bring back its comfort and beauty.
How to Clean Mold Effectively from Your Inflatable Hot Tub
An inflatable hot tub can be a great addition to your home because it can help you relax and heal. But if you don’t keep up with upkeep, mold and mildew can grow quickly and make the tub look bad and be less clean. Follow these step-by-step steps to clean your inflatable hot tub and keep it clean and mold-free.
Step 1: Empty the Hot Tub
Before you start cleaning, you need to make sure that the hot tub is empty. First, turn off the power and take off any electrical parts or accessories that are linked to the tub. This keeps you safe while you clean and stops any damage to the electrical system that could happen. Find the drain plug, which is usually at the bottom of the hot tub. Remove the drain plug carefully to let the water out.
Depending on how big the tub is, it might take a while for all the water to drain. To move the water out of the tub more quickly, you can use a pump or connect a hose to the drain exit. As the water level goes down, this is a good time to check the inside for any dirt, leaves, or other foreign items that may have gathered from regular use. To make cleaning easier, get rid of any dirt that you can see.
Step 2: Get Rid of Mold on the Surface
Since the hot tub is now empty, it’s time to deal with the mold problem. Mold grows in places that are damp and wet, like an inflatable hot tub that hasn’t been taken care of properly. Put on a pair of rubber gloves to keep your hands safe from anything that could hurt them. In a jar, mix equal amounts of water and white vinegar to make a cleaner. Acetic acid, which is found in white vinegar, is a natural mold killer and is safe to use on most plastic hot tub materials.
Soak a soft sponge or cloth in the vinegar solution until it is very wet. Start gently cleaning the places where mold is growing. Pay close attention to the corners, cracks, and other places that don’t get much air because mold is more likely to grow there. The vinegar’s acetic acid will help break down the mold and free it from the surface. Rinse the areas you scrubbed with clean water to get rid of any leftover dirt and wipe them dry with a clean cloth to stop mold from growing back.
Step 3: Treating Mold Stains that Won’t Come Out
Some mold spots may be hard for vinegar alone to get rid of. In this case, you can make a paste of baking soda and water to get rid of the marks. Mix a small amount of water with baking soda until you get a thick paste. Put the paste right on the hard-to-remove mold spots and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Baking soda is alkaline, which can help lift and soften mold, making it easier to get rid of.
After the time has passed, scrub the stained areas softly with the same soft sponge or cloth. Be careful not to use too much force, especially if the surface of your inflatable hot tub is fragile, as this could damage it. Rinse the surfaces well with water to get rid of any leftover soap, and then dry them with a clean cloth. Even though baking soda is usually safe for most surfaces, you should be careful when using it on colored surfaces because it could stain them.
Step 4: Make Sure the Hot Tub is Clean
It’s important to disinfect the whole hot tub to get rid of any mold spores and bugs that might still be there. Mix together 1 part bleach and 10 parts water in a spray bottle. Bleach is a strong disinfectant that will kill mold spores and bugs and stop mold from growing again. But keep in mind that bleach can fade or damage some materials, so test it first in a small, unnoticeable area before putting it on the whole hot tub.
Once you are sure you know how to use bleach, spray the solution on all of the hot tub’s surfaces, making sure to get every corner. Let the bleach solution sit for about 10 minutes to make sure it works properly. After the time has passed, rinse the hot tub well with clean water to get rid of any leftover bleach. This step is very important if you want to avoid skin sensitivity and chemical reactions when you fill the tub with new water.
Step 5: Clean the Filters and Put in New Ones
The filters in your inflatable hot tub are very important for keeping the water clean and stopping mold from growing. Filters collect dust, dirt, and other particles as they are used, which makes them less effective. Take the filters out of the hot tub and clean them well with a hose, paying close attention to any bits that are stuck or clogged.
If you don’t want to damage the filter material, use a gentle stream of water. If the filters are too dirty or can’t be cleaned anymore, it’s best to get new ones. Filters that are clean and work well will make sure that the water in your hot tub is clear and that mold won’t grow in the future.
Step 6: Adding Water to the Hot Tub
Now that your hot tub is clean and free of germs, you can fill it up with new water. Before you do that, give the drain plug and the inside one last look to make sure they are both clean and dry. Mold can grow in places where there is still wetness, so it’s important to make sure the inside is completely dry.
Fill the tub with fresh water, making sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the right amount of water. If you fill it too much, water could spill out when you use it. Take note of any water chemistry or maintenance instructions that the maker gives you to keep your hot tub in great shape.
Step 7: Add Chemicals and Make Sure the Water is in Balance
To keep the water clean and stop mold from growing again, you must add the right chemicals to your hot tub water. Start by using a good test kit to find out the pH and chlorine levels of the water. For sanitizers and chemical solutions to work, the pH level needs to stay between 7.4 and 7.6 most of the time. If the pH levels aren’t in the right range, use pH increasers or pH decreasers to change them.
Next, add the right amount of chlorine or other chemicals that kill bacteria to get the water to the right balance. With the right chemical balance, mold and germs won’t be able to grow, so the water will stay clean and safe to drink. To keep your hot tub healthy and mold-free, you should check and adjust the water chemistry at least once a week or as recommended by the maker.
Step 8: Take Care of It Regularly
To get rid of mold and keep it from coming back, you must clean and disinfect your inflatable hot tub. But if you want your hot tub to stay clean and mold-free, you need to set up a regular care schedule. Set up regular cleaning sessions to deal with any mold growth or buildup of trash. Clean the hot tub’s sides well, especially the places where water tends to gather. Check filters often and clean or change them as needed to keep them working well.
Also, make sure to test the chemistry of the water at least once a week and change the chemical levels as needed to keep the environment clean and healthy. When you’re not using your hot tub, put a cover on it. This keeps dirt and other things from falling into the water and lowers the chance that mold will grow because of the trapped moisture. With regular and correct care, you can get the most out of your inflatable hot tub and make sure it stays clean and fun for years to come.
Other Ways to Clean Mold Off Your Inflatable Hot Tub
Mold can quickly become a problem if it isn’t taken care of quickly and well. Most of the time, vinegar and bleach are used to kill mold, but there are other ways that work just as well. In this guide, we’ll look at a number of different ways to clean mold off of an inflatable hot tub. Each method is a safe and effective way to clean a hot tub that takes into account different tastes and the materials used to make it.
Solution of Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a safe option to bleach and vinegar that can be used to kill mold. Pour equal amounts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water into a spray bottle to use this method. Most drug shops have no trouble getting the 3% concentration. Spray the solution right on the areas of your inflatable hot tub that have mold. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes so the hydrogen peroxide has time to kill the mold.
During this process, if you see bubbles, it means that the hydrogen peroxide is killing the mold spores. After the time has passed, use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the moldy spots. Lastly, rinse the hot tub well with clean water to get rid of any mold or hydrogen peroxide that is still there.
Enzyme Cleaners
Using enzyme-based cleaners to get rid of mold in your inflatable hot tub is a green way to do it. Mold and other organic waste are broken down by the natural enzymes in these cleaners. To use this method, follow the guidelines on the enzyme cleaner and apply it to the moldy areas. Let the cleaner sit for the time it says to so the enzymes can get to work breaking down the mold.
This can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, but it usually takes between a few minutes and an hour. After the time has passed, scrub the moldy spots gently with a soft brush or cloth. Most enzyme cleaners are safe to use on a wide range of surfaces, which makes them a good choice for inflatable hot tubs. After scrubbing, fill the tub with clean water and rinse it well.
The Tea Tree Oil Fix
Tea tree oil is naturally antifungal, so it can be used instead of bleach to get rid of mold in your inflatable hot tub. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle to use this method. Because tea tree oil is strong, you only need a small amount for it to work. Spray the solution directly on the moldy parts of the hot tub and let it sit for about 30 minutes.
This lets the oil get into the mold and start breaking it down. Tea tree oil is usually safe for most inflatable hot tub materials, but you should always test a small area before putting it on the whole tub. After the time has passed, scrub the mold gently with a soft brush or cloth and fully rinse the tub with clean water.
Cleaning with Oxalic Acid
Oxalic acid is a strong cleaner that can help get rid of tough mold spots on materials like vinyl or fiberglass. But you should be careful when you use it because it can hurt some surfaces. To use this method, dilute the oxalic acid as directed by the maker. Apply the weakened solution to the parts of the hot tub that have mold.
Be careful not to leave the acid on for too long, because it can damage or change the color of the wood. Most of the time, a few minutes of interaction time is enough. After the time has passed, scrub the stained areas softly and wash them well with clean water. If you’re not sure about using oxalic acid on your inflatable hot tub, there are other ways that are less harsh but still work.
Steam Cleaning
Mold can be taken care of in your inflatable hot tub in a natural and effective way by steam cleaning. Direct the high-temperature steam from a mobile steam cleaner over the moldy areas. The heat from the steam kills mold germs and breaks up mold growth, which makes it easier to get rid of.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe away the mold that has come loose after boiling. Make sure you have a cloth or towel to catch the mold that falls off as you clean so it doesn’t get back on the surface. After you’re done steam cleaning, give the hot tub a good rinse with clean water.
Commercial Mold Removers
There are a lot of professional mold removers on the market that are made to get rid of mold and mildew. Most of the time, these items come in spray or gel form, which makes them easy to use and wash off. Choose a mold cleaner that is safe to use on materials for an inflatable hot tub and follow the directions on the bottle.
Some professional mold removers have strong chemicals, so make sure to wear gloves and work in an area with good airflow. Before putting the product on the whole hot tub, test it on a small, hidden area to make sure it doesn’t hurt or change the color of the tub.
There are different ways to clean mold off of your inflatable hot tub. Choose the way that works best for you and your needs based on how bad the mold is and what your inflatable hot tub is made of.
How to Keep Mold from Growing in Your Inflatable Hot Tub
Prevention is the key to keeping an inflatable hot tub clean and fun to use. By taking preventative steps, you can make sure that mold doesn’t grow in your hot tub and that it stays a clean oasis. In this guide, we’ll talk about a few ways to keep mold away from your inflatable hot tub and make it last longer. With these tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your hot tub and reduce the chances of mold problems. Let’s get started!
Cover the hot tub when it’s not being used
One of the best ways to stop mold from growing is to cover your inflatable hot tub when you’re not using it. Using a hot tub cover protects the water from things like leaves, dirt, and rain, which can bring in harmful substances and make a good place for mold to grow. Make sure the cover is tight and properly fastened so that water doesn’t build up inside the tub.
Set up a regular cleaning schedule
To keep a hot tub clean and stop mold from taking hold, it needs to be cleaned regularly. Make a plan for cleaning and stick to it. Pay attention to cleaning the tub’s surfaces, such as the walls, seats, and floor. Pay extra attention to corners and hard-to-reach spots where mold is likely to grow.
Change and clean the filters
Filters are very important for keeping water clean because they catch things like dirt and chemicals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how often to clean the filters. If your hot tub’s filters are broken, too dirty, or older than a year, it’s best to get new ones to make sure the water is filtered well.
Make sure the water’s chemistry is right
For a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience and to stop mold from growing, the water chemistry must be just right. Check the pH and chlorine levels in the water regularly with a good testing kit. To keep the water clean and safe, change the pH levels and add the right chemicals to sanitize it as needed to keep the water’s chemistry in check.
Don’t fill the hot tub too much
If you put too much water in your inflatable hot tub, it could leak and create damp spots where mold can grow. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the right amount of water and don’t put in more. Also, make sure the water level stays below the control panel and any electrical parts to keep them from getting damaged.
Use the right ventilation
Proper air around the hot tub is important to cut down on humidity and make it harder for mold to grow. Make sure there is enough airflow and don’t put the hot tub in a place that doesn’t have enough ventilation.
Get rid of trash quickly
Leaves, sticks, and other trash can quickly pile up in the hot tub, making it a good place for mold to grow. Take out any trash right away to keep the water clean and stop mold from growing.
Cut down on soaps and lotions
When people use soaps, lotions, and oils too much, they can put organic matter into the water. This gives mold and bugs something to eat. Encourage people who use hot tubs to wash off any lotions or oils before getting in. This will cut down on the number of possible contaminants.
Don’t leave wet clothes or towels in the hot tub
If you leave wet towels or clothes in the hot tub, the extra water can cause mold to grow. Encourage people to hang their clothes and towels on hooks or racks that aren’t near the hot tub.
Always drain and refill the hot tub
Drain and refill your inflatable hot tub every so often to keep the water clean and stop contaminants from building up. How often you need to drain and refill depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it, but as a general rule, you should do this every two to three months or as the maker suggests.
By doing these preventative things, you can keep your inflatable hot tub clean and mold-free. Using a cover when the spa is not in use, setting up a regular cleaning schedule, keeping the water chemistry right, and not overfilling are all important ways to make sure you have a nice and clean spa experience. If you take care of your hot tub, you’ll be able to use it for years without having to worry about mold problems.
FAQs
Can I clean the mold off of my inflatable hot tub with vinegar?
Yes, vinegar is a natural way to clean mold off of your inflatable hot tub that works well. Its acetic acid helps mold and mildew break down, making it easier to get rid of. In a spray bottle or other container, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. Then, apply the solution directly to the moldy areas. Let it sit for a few minutes so the vinegar can do its magic. Then, use a soft brush or cloth to scrub it gently. Rinse well with clean water to get rid of any vinegar left over.
Will bleach hurt the fabric of my blow-up hot tub?
Bleach is a powerful way to kill germs and get rid of mold, but if it is not used properly, it can damage some materials. Before putting bleach on the whole hot tub, you should always test a small, hidden spot first. If your inflatable hot tub is made of vinyl or PVC, you should be careful with bleach because long-term contact could cause the material to fade or break down. Also, make sure there is enough airflow when using bleach and follow the instructions for dilution and contact time from the maker.
How do cleaners that use enzymes to get rid of mold work?
Natural enzymes in enzyme cleaners break down organic waste, such as mold. These enzymes work by going after the structure of the mold and breaking it up into smaller pieces. Then, the enzymes eat these pieces, which gets rid of the mold. Enzyme cleaners are good for the environment and safe for most of the materials in an inflatable hot tub. This makes them a popular way to get rid of mold.
Can I put hydrogen peroxide on areas that aren’t white?
Most of the time, hydrogen peroxide is safe to use on colored surfaces, but it’s best to test a small area first before putting it on the whole hot tub. Even though 3% hydrogen peroxide is not too harsh, higher amounts may cause some materials to change color. Stick to the recommended dilution and try not to touch the top of the hot tub for too long.
Is tea tree oil safe for all of the materials in an inflatable hot tub?
Tea tree oil is safe for vinyl, PVC, and most other materials used in inflatable hot tubs. But you should still do a patch test before putting tea tree oil on the whole hot tub. Don’t use pure tea tree oil, because it can be too strong and irritate skin that is already sensitive.
How does cleaning with steam work to get rid of mold?
High-temperature steam is used to kill mold spores and break up mold growth. Mold is easy to clean up because the hot steam breaks it down. Use a mobile steam cleaner and direct the steam over the moldy areas. After steaming, wipe away the mold that has been broken down with a soft cloth or sponge and give the hot tub a good rinse.
Can oxalic acid be used on anything?
You should only use oxalic acid on certain things, like plastic or fiberglass. It can hurt or change the color of other surfaces, such as acrylic or paint. When using oxalic acid, you should always follow the manufacturer’s advice for dilution and contact time and be careful to avoid damage.
How often do I have to clean my inflatable hot tub to keep mold from growing?
Clean your inflatable hot tub often to stop mold from growing in it. Set up a regular plan for maintenance and check the tub at least once a week. If you see mold or mildew, you should clean it up as soon as possible using the right way.
Should I leave the hot tub open to let it dry after I clean it?
Before you cover your hot tub, you must make sure it is completely dry after cleaning it. If you leave it out in the open for a short time after cleaning, any remaining wetness can evaporate. This makes it less likely that mold will grow back.
Can I clean my blow-up hot tub with a power washer?
It’s not a good idea to use a power washer on an inflatable hot tub. The high pressure could damage the tub’s materials, which could lead to leaks or make the structure weaker. To keep your hot tub in good shape, only use gentle cleaning methods like the ones in this book.
How can I keep mold from coming back to my hot tub?
Regular upkeep is needed to keep mold from coming back. Clean the hot tub’s surfaces and filters often, and test and balance the chemicals in the water at least once a week to keep the water chemistry right. Also, keep the hot tub covered when you’re not using it to keep dirt from going in and to stop moisture from building up.
Can mold removers sold in stores be used on inflatable hot tubs?
Most commercial mold removers are safe to use on inflatable hot tubs, but you should always check the product’s label to make sure it is safe for the material of your hot tub. Always follow the directions from the manufacturer for how to use it and how to keep yourself safe.
How do I get mold out of places in the hot tub that are hard to get to?
Use a small brush or a toothbrush to gently scrub the mold out of hard-to-reach places. For small cracks and corners, you can also use a cotton swab or Q-tip. If the mold is especially hard to get rid of, try dipping a cloth in the cleaning solution and putting it on the affected areas. Let it sit for a while before you scrub it.
Can I clean mold out of my hot tub with any home cleaner?
Not every home cleaner can be used to get rid of mold in your hot tub. Don’t use harsh or abrasive products that could damage the tub. Stick to the cleaning methods in this guide, as they were chosen because they work well and are safe for inflatable hot tubs.
What should I do if the mold keeps coming back even after I clean it?
If there is a lot of mold growth or it keeps coming back despite your best efforts, you might want to hire an expert. A professional hot tub cleaner can look at the situation, use special tools, and give advice on how to get rid of the mold in a safe and effective way.
