Hot tubs are an excellent way to ease sore joints, relax after a long day of work, use hydrotherapy techniques for mental and physical stimulation, and enjoy a unique entertaining area. With a wide variety of makes and models to choose from, you can easily find a hot tub that fits your needs for seasonal, or year-round use.
The one thing all tubs have in common however, is the importance of keeping a proper maintenance schedule. Keeping the spa clean and water clear is crucial to your health, and choosing the proper chemicals is part of the process. The best hot tub chemicals are those that are not only effective, but convenient to use as well. Although there are MANY to choose from, we’ve highlighted some of the top rated below for various cleaning needs.
5 Best Hot Tub Chemical Comparisons
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Leisure Time E5 Spa 56 Chlorinating Granules |
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FROG @ease Floating Sanitizing System |
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Hot Tub Things Chlorine Starter Kit |
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ecoone | Hot Tub Chemical Maintenance & Supply Kit |
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SpaGuard Brominating Concentrate |
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Importance of Hot Tub Maintenance
Even if you keep your tub well covered, it is going to get some dirt and debris in it from the surrounding environment. On its own this isn’t usually that big of a deal and may not even be very noticeable due to the use of a filter- but once you begin using the tub as you should, you are going to see a big difference.
Every time you set foot in the tub every bit of dirt, dead skin, body oil, and perspiration is getting washed off in the water. If you use a lotion, the residue will be left behind; if you use hair products, they now have been added to the water; and whatever you feet came in contact with before stepping in the water is also in the tub with you- or is it?
This is a common cause for dirty water and sounds gross, but in reality isn’t as bad as it seems because the chemicals you use are actively attacking any bacterias and other yuckies you may have just introduced. They break these down quickly and allow anything left behind to efficiently filter to keep you soaking in clean water- rather than the disgusting human soup I just described.
The Three C’s
Circulation, cleanliness, and a working chemical system are the three C’s you need to keep in mind for a clean, sanitized soaking experience. They work together to help keep your water safe and so choosing the best hot tub products to use is important. Using these as they should will keep you from having any major issues, or wondering how to deal with hot tub foam and other minor inconveniences.
Circulation
Spas need to run regularly to circulate water and stir up any foreign matters or dirt suspended in the water for filtration. Many spas have an automatic cycle to run a few times a day even when not is use, but if your spa does not have this feature you will need to turn it on to run at least once for 40 minutes to an hour.
A good filtration system is a must, and to make it even more effective, you can choose various chemicals to help break down dirt and debris even more so it can run more efficiently.
Cleanliness
The humid, moist environment created by a tub is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Wiping down the cover (top and bottom), sides of the tub, and edges of the tub at least once a week is crucial to helping keep the environment clean. Every few months you should drain your tub and wipe it down with a bleach solution and/or vinegar based cleaner as well.
Chemicals
Test your water regularly for pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels with test strips. Always do it when you add fresh water,and, at a minimum once a week so you can adjust your chemical additions as needed. Although the responsibility of this may seem daunting, it is easily done using simple test kits that can test your levels, and also supply all you need for maintenance. Follow the directions of the brands you buy to determine how much chlorine is needed (or bromine) to avoid waste.
Water Shocking
Chemicals are also a part of the water shocking process. This should be done at least once a week, or more if the spa is used heavily, to remove organic contaminants, keep your filter working more efficiently, remove bacteria and odors, and provide the proper chemical levels you need. The best hot tub sanitizers include bromine and chlorine options, and work with various other products to provide variations in your personal preferences.
If you have sensitivities, you can easily research the best hot tub chemicals for sensitive skin to discover what possible alternative are available to ensure you have a clean, safe, yet comfortable soaking option treatment.
Top 5 Hot Tub Chemical Reviews
Although there are many ways to use chemicals, chemical alternatives (or other options), and filter systems with one another, the following options are some of the best to consider. These chemical products were chosen based on consumer reviews that highlight their effectiveness and affordability. It doesn’t matter what top brand spa you have, they all require similar maintenance. If you are wondering what are some of the best to use and best place to buy- see below.
Leisure Time E5 Spa 56 Chlorinating Granules
- Chemical Type: Chlorine
- Amount: 5lb
- Application: ½ ouce daily after soaking and can be used to shock the system once a week as well
Designed to work with chlorine sanitizing systems in spa and hot tub models, the Leisure Time Spa Chlorinating Granules maintain clean, clear and sanitized water. Quick dissolving, it helps control algae growth and kills bacteria and odors. EPA approved, it is an effective way to shock your system to keep it safe for soaking. It also come in brominating granules for bromine supported systems and can be used daily as well.
Pros
- Easy to use and measure
- Long lasting
- Very good for regular maintenance
Cons
- Too much may create a foamy surface
- Old granules might not dissolves as easily
Pro Tip
Support a clean water environment in any hot tub or spa with easy measurement amounts with these granulas. As long as you have a chlorine supported system they are exactly what you need to shock your tub.
FROG @ease Floating Sanitizing System
- Chemical Type: Chlorine and Mineral
- Amount: Each refill lasts 3-4 weeks
- Application: Floating, self-regulating application
This floating sanitizing system is designed to work in tubs up to 600 gallons. Self-regulating, it kills bacteria 2 ways with minerals and a Smartchlor chlorine application. Cartridges are prefilled for a no-mess option that leaves out the stress of measuring. Each pack comes with one floating ‘Frog’ and 3 cartridge refills, as well as a start shock treatment and testing strips.
Pros
- Works great
- Very convenient
- Perfect for smaller hot tubs
Cons
- May not last as long as advertised for
- 600 gallons may be too much water
Pro Tip
This is the perfect option for anyone who doesn’t want the hassle of having to remember to add sanitizer to their spa. It does need to be used with a regular monthly shock schedule.
Hot Tub Things Chlorine Starter Kit
- Chemical Type: Chlorine
- Amount: Variable kit options
- Application: Granules- follow directions for all chemicals for perfect water sanitization
Hot Tub Things is a long trusted brand name for all tub and pool needs. Their Chlorine Starter Kit for Spas is designed specifically for all spa sizes and includes everything you need to test, shock, and treat your water. Chlorinating granules for daily treatments is only part of the package. It also comes complete with pH and alkalinity up and down, an oxidizing shock, clarifying, stain control, and test strips.
Pros
- Comes with great measuring instructions and care sheet
- Keeps water looking great
- Great 1 stop buy for all you need
Cons
- Does not come with defoamer or calcium
- The pH and Alkalinity Up and Down don’t always work well together
Pro Tip
Whether you are new to hot tubs or have been looking for an easy treatment system, this kit is all you need to care for your water and keep it sanitized.
ecoone | Hot Tub Chemical Maintenance & Supply Kit
- Chemical Type: Chlorine
- Amount: Variable kit
- Application: Tablet application, follow all directions for use
Ecoone is a popular brand that uses low chemical levels combined with natural ingredients to help clean your spa water. This 3 month care kit comes with almost all you need, and includes shock sanitizer tablets, water conditioner, filter cleanser, and test strips. This system helps make your filter more effective as well. Designed to be skin friendly, this is a perfect option if you have sensitive skin.
Pros
- Very helpful in controlling foam
- Allows filter to work much better
- Crystal clear water
Cons
- Does not include pH and alkalinity adjustment treatments
Pro Tip
Whether you have skin sensitivities or simply are interested in a lower chemical exposure, this is an excellent all in one kit to help keep your system clean and well filtered.
SpaGuard Brominating Concentrate
- Chemical Type: Bromine
- Amount: 6 lbs
- Application: Granules, ½ cap 2 to 3 times a week
SpaGuard Brominating concentrate is perfect for both daily and weekly treatments of your tub water. Also available in chlorine shock concentrate, this is a granulated application that dissolves quickly and efficiently and kill bacteria on contact. pH neutral, it will not affect you alkalinity or pH levels. It works best with a separate shock treatment, and works best when used on a regular schedule.
Pros
- Keeps water very clear
- Long lasting
- Easy to measure
Cons
- Too much use can create skin sensitivities and dissolve certain bathing suit materials (typical of all chemical if over used)
Pro Tip
Can be used with both chlorine and bromine systems, and is a gert alternative to chlorine due to skin sensitivities.
Conclusion
Choosing the proper chemicals for keeping a clean spa is important. A regular sanitizing schedule is very important for soaking safety, and the choices provided above are all excellent picks to consider. Be sure to use chemicals that work best for your type of system (chlorine and bromine can be interchangeable), and always follow the directions provided for your size tub.
Let us know below which you may have used and which options you prefer. Also, as always, please share.