The Right Way to Clean a Jetted Tub

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.

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."

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.

1. Fill the tub with hot water a few inches above the jets.
2. Depending on the tub size, add anywhere from 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup of mild dish detergent.
3. Once the detergent dissolves, add 2 cups of distilled white vinegar.
4. Close the valves (if allowed by the manufacturer) and run the jets for 15 minutes.
5. Drain the tub.

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Step 3: Scrub the Tub

Once the tub drains, scrub it with a homemade baking soda paste to treat any lingering stains.

1. In a bowl, make a paste with baking soda, water, and a squirt of mild dish soap.
2. Apply the paste to all sides of the tub and the fixtures.
3. Using an old toothbrush, scrub the paste in a circular motion.
4. 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.

1. Fill the tub with warm water a few inches above the jets.
2. Run the jets for 15 minutes with the valves open.
3. 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. 

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.