How Often Should You Really Clean Your Hot Tub Filter?

a photo of two sets of hands holding a hot tub filter while on of them rinses it off with the hose. half of the filter is clean and white, and the other half is very dirty.

How Often Should You Really Clean Your Hot Tub Filter?

Your hot tub filter does a lot of the dirty work! It helps trap oils, dirt, hair, leaves, and other debris before they can build up in your water.

But how often should you actually clean it?

A Simple Way to Remember

Quick rinse every 1–2 weeks.
Deep clean every 1–3 months.


Inspect your filter whenever you drain and refill your hot tub.

a photo of a hand rinsing of a hot tub filter with the garden hose.

Every 1–2 Weeks: Give It a Quick Rinse

Remove your filter and rinse it thoroughly with a hose. This helps remove loose debris, hair, and other buildup trapped between the filter pleats.

Tip: Spread the pleats apart slightly while rinsing to help flush out debris hiding inside.

Use only the pressure from the garden hose; never use a pressure washer or take the filter to a car wash. This can damage or weaken the pleated material of the filter and shorten its lifespan.

a photo of a hand placing a hot tub filter in a blue bucket of filter cleaning solution.

Every 1–3 Months: Give It a Deep Clean

Over time, your filter can collect oils, lotions, body products, and other contaminants that a quick rinse may not remove.

Using a proper hot tub filter cleaner can help break down this buildup and give your filter a more thorough clean. Always follow the directions on the filter cleaner and rinse the filter thoroughly before putting it back into your hot tub.

Shop online for filter cleaning products HERE.

Every Time You Drain Your Hot Tub: Inspect Your Filter

When you drain and refill your hot tub, take a few extra minutes to inspect your filter.

Look for:

  • Tears or holes
  • Broken or damaged pleats
  • Flattened or crushed areas
  • Heavy staining or buildup that will not come clean

If your filter is damaged or no longer cleaning properly, it may be time for a replacement.

a top down view of a hot tub filter that is warped. the blue plastic has a large crack in it.

Not sure if your filter needs a good cleaning—or if it might be time for a replacement?

Bring your questions into Aqua-Tech! Our team is always happy to help you choose the right products and keep your hot tub water clear, clean, and ready to enjoy.

Shop online for hot tub filters HERE, or contact our parts team if you are unsure of what filter you need:

www.findmyparts.ca

Or contact our Water Testing Team for advice on cleaning your filter, or any other chemistry related inquiries:

Phone: 204-233-8822

Email: [email protected]

Text: 204-817-8238

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