How to Clean a Whirlpool Bath

Gone are the days when whirlpool baths were found only in the most affluent of homes. As our culture has becomes more and more accustomed to creature comforts, these luxuries have become more and more commonplace. As residential cleaners, it is very likely you will, or have already, cleaned homes with these tubs in them. By learning how to care for whirlpool tubs properly, you will have another useful service to offer your clients.

Oftentimes, maintaining a whirlpool is a task the homeowner has neglected. The pumps, jets, and hoses can become breeding grounds for various microorganisms, and the combination of minerals from water, soaps, and body oils and dirt can create a buildup both internally as well as on the tub surface itself. Improper cleaning can not only affect the appearance and performance of these fixtures, but can be a health hazard as well. As the interior tubing collects water, molds and bacteria begin to grow. Common complaints include a foul odor coming from the jets, as well as black or brown “gunk” entering the tub as pieces of the decaying matter break off and enter the water stream. Not a pleasant site when you are trying to enjoy a relaxing bath.

If possible, it is always best to follow manufacturers’ maintenance procedures, but oftentimes you or the homeowner may not know the manufacturer. There are general guidelines, however, that apply to all whirlpools. There is one step in these procedures that I’m sure rarely gets followed. It is recommended to purge the system using a germicidal cleaning solution. Some manufacturers recommend this be done after every use, while others recommend doing the procedure twice per month.

The process involves filling the tub with hot water, just past the highest set of jets, then adding the cleaning agents. Some manufacturers, such as Jacuzzi, recommend using a product specifically intended for this process, available on their website. Others recommend using a solution of ½ cup of bleach and 2 tsp of dishwashing detergent, such as Cascade. In either case, run the whirlpool for 5 to 10 minutes, drain the tub, then fill the tub with cool water and run it again for a few minutes to rinse. This process not only kills any bacteria lingering in the system, it also prevents buildup from accumulating. This buildup can clog the jets and decrease the performance of the whirlpool. As a side note, it is recommended not to use bubble bath or other soaps in whirlpools, as it can harm the pump and add to the buildup problem.

As far as cleaning the interior of the whirlpool, it is not really different from cleaning a regular tub. All purpose cleaners are fine—just make sure not to use abrasive cleansers, such as Comet, as they may damage the surface. For heavy mineral deposits, mild acid cleaners are effective, but be sure to rinse well after use. Do not use aggressive scrubbing pads or steel wool, as this will cause damage as well.

Tags: jacuzzi, whirlpool baths