Are you struggling to keep your hot tub cover clean and well-maintained? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your hot tub cover to ensure its longevity and efficiency.
By following our expert tips and techniques, you’ll be able to remove chemicals, debris, mold, and mildew effectively. We’ll show you how to clean both vinyl and specialty hot tub covers using the right cleaners and tools.
Learn some important care tips to prevent fading, cracking, waterlogging, and mildew.
With regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and a little TLC, your hot tub cover will stay shiny and new for years to come. So, let’s dive in and learn how to clean your hot tub cover like a pro!
Key Takeaways
- Cleaning your hot tub cover is essential for regular maintenance and efficiency.
- Use a vinyl cleaner or specialty hot tub cover cleaner to clean the top side.
- Apply a UV protectant spray to extend the cover’s life.
- Mold and mildew on the hot tub cover can be removed with proper cleaning solutions and extra cleaning time.
- Use a hot tub cover cap for an extra layer of protection.
How to Clean a Hot Tub Cover:
So, you’ve got a hot tub cover that could use a little TLC? Let me show you how to give it a good cleaning and keep it looking fresh and shiny! Remember, good quality hot tub covers can cost quite a bit of money so it pays to look after them properly.
Choose the Right Cleaner
To clean your hot tub cover effectively, it’s important to choose the right cleaning products. Hot tub covers now come in all sorts of styles and are made from different materials. So, the cleaning products you use can make a big difference.
The most common material is heavy vinyl. It could be worth checking if any cleaning product you use is suitable for the material of your cover.
When it comes to choosing the right cleaner for hot tub covers, opt for a gentle, non-foaming, pH-neutral cleaner like Simple Green. Don’t be tempted to reach for your kitchen spray!
Avoid using things like household detergent, abrasives, alcohols, dish soaps, or harsh cleaners as they can damage the vinyl.
Your hot tub cover can be an expensive bit of kit so give it the care it deserves. Seriously, invest in a product designed for hot tub covers. You’ll thank me!
How Often To Clean Your Spa Cover?
As often as necessary of course! You should give it a quick clean every time you take it off. Just a quick brush down and a wipe with a soft cloth is usually enough. You don’t want debris like leaves and layers of dust to build up.
I would then recommend a full clean every 1-2 months depending on where it is situated and the climate it is exposed to. You should be changing your hot tub water every 3-4 months so try to fit it in around your schedule. But, if it is starting to look grimy, give it a clean.
Take a moment to check out some of my other guides – lots of useful information about hot tub maintenance:
Cleaning Your Hot Tub Cover Step by Step
If you want to keep your vinyl hot tub cover looking brand new, here’s how to give it a thorough cleaning. Spa cover maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity and efficiency. Look after it and it will last a long time.
- Step 1: Take the cover off the tub and place it on a flat, smooth surface near a water hose.
- Step 2: Rinse the underside to remove any chemical splashes and then turn it over and use the hose to wash off leaves, grass, and debris.
- Step 3: Apply a gentle cleanser or hot tub cleaning solution recommended by the manufacturer. Some products should be left on for a short time to soak in and help clean stubborn stains.
- Step 4: Using a soft cloth, give it a good clean. Remember to do both sides and get right into the corners and seams.
- Step 5: Rinse off the cleaner with the hose and rub it down again with a soft cloth, towel, or microfiber cloth. Leave it to air dry.
- Step 6: To finish off, apply a quality UV vinyl protection spray or conditioner and reattach the cover.
That’s it – it shouldn’t take too much time or effort. The secret is to keep the cover from getting really dirty in the first place. Then cleaning is quick and easy.
If you’ve let your maintenance slip, you could have more difficult problems like mold and mildew or stubborn stains to contend with. Keep reading.
Remove Mold From the Hot tub Cover
Mold growth on your hot tub cover can become a big problem if left unchecked. On good-quality covers, the mold can get into the foam layer of the spa cover. Once in there, it will be almost impossible to get rid of.
Mold on the surface of the cover can be treated easily so don’t let it get bad. Here’s how to remove mold from your hot tub cover:
- Mix a solution of one part bleach to three parts water.
- Using a sponge or soft brush, apply the bleach solution to the affected areas of the cover.
- Scrub the mold gently, making sure to cover all the moldy spots.
- Rinse the cover thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
- Dry the cover as usual and reapply your UV protective spray or conditioner.
Regularly cleaning your cover with DIY hot tub cover cleaners and using a hot tub cover cleaner specifically designed for vinyl can help prevent mold growth.
Additionally, wiping down your cover regularly and keeping it dry can also help prevent mold from forming.
Remove Mildew from Your Hot Tub Cover
Mildew is another common problem with hot tub covers. Like mold, it thrives in warm damp conditions, especially on the underside of the cover.
You can clean mildew from your hot tub cover using the method above. I have found that diluted vinegar works well to remove mildew.
To prevent mildew, make sure to regularly clean and dry your cover, especially after rainy or humid periods.
Tips: How to Care For a Hot Tub Cover
Regular cleaning following the methods and schedule above will go a long way to caring for your cover. Here are a few more tips to help with most situations:
- Proper storage. When not in use, make sure to cover your hot tub and cover with a plastic tarp to protect it from rain, snow, and damaging sun. This will greatly increase the life of the cover.
- Better still use a Cover Cap. A hot tub cover cap is another defensive guard for your spa cover. It gives better UV protection compared to just using vinyl conditioner, it also makes cleaning easier. This is a particularly handy accessory if your hot tub doesn’t see frequent use or if it is outside in a cold winter environment.
- To prevent sun damage, apply a protective UV cleaner to the vinyl surface. Avoid using oil-based protectants as they can amplify sun rays and cause damage.
- Inspect your cover regularly for tears and repair them immediately to prevent water from seeping into the foam.
- If you have problems with tree sap staining your cover, rub a little vegetable oil or margarine on the affected area. Works a treat!
Lastly, be aware of common mistakes to avoid when cleaning covers, such as using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials. Instead, use gentle cleaning solutions and soft cloths.
By following these tips, you can keep your hot tub cover in excellent condition for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my hot tub cover?
To properly maintain your hot tub cover, it’s recommended to clean it every 1-2 months depending on usage and environmental factors. Regular cleaning, along with following cover care tips, can help prolong its lifespan and prevent signs of wear.
Can I use regular household cleaners to clean my hot tub cover?
No, regular household cleaners are not recommended for cleaning your hot tub cover. Instead, opt for specialist hot tub cover cleaners using eco-friendly and non-toxic cover cleaning methods. Natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and bleach (diluted) can be effective alternatives.
What should I do if my hot tub cover has tears or seams that are opening?
If your hot tub cover has tears or seams that are opening, you have a few options. For minor damage, you can try DIY solutions like using duct tape or patch kits. If the damage is more significant, it may be best to consider cover replacement or seek professional help.
To Wrap Up (LOL)
Properly cleaning and maintaining your hot tub cover is important for the overall efficiency and longevity of your hot tub. Remember the cover is protecting the tub!
By following a step-by-step cleaning process and using the right cleaners and protectants, you can keep your hot tub cover in excellent condition. Regular care – keeping the cover dry and out of the sun, repairing any tears, and maintaining the hot tub water balance will further extend the life of your cover.
By implementing these tips, you can ensure that your hot tub cover remains clean, protected, and lasts a long time. You’re welcome!
All this effort to keep your tub clean and safe – is it all worth it? It’s just part of the pros and cons of owning a hot tub. Many people, including me, definitely think it is!
