Say Goodbye to Hot Tub Scum: Prevention & Cleaning Tips
What is Hot Tub Scum?
Have you ever stepped into your hot tub only to find an unsightly brown ring along the waterline? That sticky residue isn’t just unpleasant—it’s a buildup of body oils, cosmetics, and other organic contaminants that can impact water chemistry and even harbor bacteria (Olvera-Vargas et al., 2019). If left untreated, hot tub scum can lead to poor water quality, clogged filters, and even skin irritation.
How to Prevent Hot Tub Scum Before It Forms
The best way to keep your hot tub clean is to prevent scum buildup from the start. Follow these essential tips:
1. Shower Before Use
Rinsing off before entering your spa removes lotions, deodorants, and body oils that contribute to buildup (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021). Encourage guests to rinse off as well to maintain a cleaner hot tub environment.
2. Use a Scum Absorber
A simple tennis ball or a specialized spa sponge can absorb oils before they accumulate and form scum. These are inexpensive and effective solutions to reduce unwanted residue.
3. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry
Balanced pH and sanitizer levels significantly reduce scum formation. Keep your hot tub’s water chemistry in check by regularly testing and adjusting the following levels (National Swimming Pool Foundation [NSPF], 2016):
- pH: 7.2–7.8
- Free chlorine: 3–5 ppm
- Bromine: 4–6 ppm
- Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
For an in-depth guide on hot tub water maintenance, check out our Hot Tub Water Chemistry 101.
Routine Cleaning for a Scum-Free Spa
Even with preventive measures, some maintenance is still necessary. Follow these steps for a consistently clean and fresh hot tub:
1. Wipe the Waterline Weekly
Use a soft cloth with a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water to remove fresh scum without harsh chemicals. For stubborn buildup, a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive sponge, like a Scrub Daddy, works wonders without scratching the acrylic surface (Deng et al., 2022).
2. Shock the Water Regularly
Non-chlorine shock (oxidizer) helps break down oils and lotions before they accumulate. Shock your hot tub after heavy use or at least once a week to refresh your sanitizer and eliminate organic contaminants (NSPF, 2016).
3. Purge Your Plumbing Every 3-4 Months
Scum doesn’t just sit on the surface—it builds up inside your hot tub’s plumbing too! A hot tub line flush cleaner helps break down biofilm lurking in the pipes. Follow up by draining, cleaning, and refilling your hot tub to maintain fresh, clear water (Mahoney, 2020).
For more advanced maintenance strategies, read The Ultimate Guide to Hot Tub Care.
Stay Ahead of Scum with Consistent Maintenance
Preventing hot tub scum is much easier than scrubbing it away once it has built up. With regular cleaning, balanced water chemistry, and proactive measures, your spa will remain sparkling clean and ready for relaxation.
For more expert hot tub tips, contact Marin Pool Service at (415) 883-7804 or visit our website.
Happy soaking!
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Healthy swimming: Hot tubs and spas.
- Deng, Y., Zhang, S., Li, M., & Wang, X. (2022). Surface adhesion and biofilm formation in aquatic environments.
- Mahoney, M. (2020). Hot tub water chemistry and maintenance.
- National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF). (2016). Pool & spa operator handbook.
- Olvera-Vargas, H., Ortiz, L., & Goodwin, P. (2019). Microbial contamination in recreational water systems: A review.
