How Do You Clean Bathtub Jets?
Cleaning bathtub jets is an essential maintenance task to ensure your jetted tub remains clean, hygienic, and functions optimally. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean bathtub jets using various methods and materials.
Gathering Necessary Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have the following supplies:
- White vinegar or bleach (depending on your preference and the tub’s warranty)
- Baking soda
- Automatic dishwashing detergent (such as Cascade Complete or Finish)
- A long-handled scrub brush
- An old toothbrush or Q-tips
- A soft cloth or non-scratch scrubbing sponge
- Optional: Lemons, hydrogen peroxide, or specialized jetted tub cleaners
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Filling and Preparing the Tub
To begin, fill the tub with hot water to a level that is at least 2-3 inches above the highest jets. Hot water helps loosen the grime and debris more effectively[5>.
Adding Cleaning Agents
Add your chosen cleaning agents to the water. Here are a few methods:
- Vinegar and Dishwashing Detergent: Pour in about 1/2 gallon of white vinegar and add 2-3 tablespoons of automatic dishwashing detergent. This combination helps break down soap scum and grime.
- Bleach: If you prefer to use bleach, add 1/2 cup of liquid bleach to the water. However, ensure that using bleach does not void your tub’s warranty and be cautious not to mix it with vinegar due to the toxic reaction it causes.
- Lemons and Vinegar: For a natural approach, squeeze the juice from 4 lemons into the tub and add the lemons themselves. Then, pour in about 1 gallon of white vinegar. This method not only cleans but also leaves a pleasant scent.
Running the Jets
Turn on the jets and let them run for 10-20 minutes. This process helps to flush out the debris and grime from the internal plumbing and jets. You may see a significant amount of gunk and black flakes floating in the water, especially if the tub has not been cleaned in a while.
Scrubbing the Tub and Jets
After running the jets, drain the tub and scrub the interior with a long-handled scrub brush or a non-scratch scrubbing sponge. Focus on the areas around the jets and the tub ring. Use baking soda to help break down any remaining grime and soap scum. Sprinkle baking soda generously inside the tub and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Cleaning Inside the Jets
Use an old toothbrush or Q-tips to clean inside the jets. Twist the jets around while scrubbing to ensure all areas are cleaned thoroughly. If the jets are particularly dirty, you might need to repeat the cleaning process several times until the water runs clear.
Rinsing and Final Cleaning
Once you have scrubbed the tub and jets, rinse the tub thoroughly with clean water. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the tub and jets to remove any remaining grime. For additional cleaning, sprinkle baking soda around the faucet and drain, and scrub with a soft wet cloth to remove mold, mildew, and soap scum.
Additional Tips and Precautions
Safety Precautions
Ensure that children and pets are not around while cleaning the tub, as the process involves filling the tub multiple times and using various cleaning supplies. Also, never mix bleach and vinegar due to the toxic reaction it causes.
Regular Maintenance
To keep your jetted tub clean and maintain its performance, it is recommended to clean the jets regularly. For frequent users, cleaning once a week or every other week is advisable. For less frequent users, cleaning every three months should suffice.
Avoiding Certain Products
Avoid using bath salts, mineral salts, bubble bath, or highly sudsing soap in your jetted tub. These products can cause residue to build up in the tub’s plumbing system, leading to contamination of the clean water when the jets are turned on.
Specialized Cleaning Products
If you prefer to use specialized products, there are cleaners like “Oh Yuk Jetted Tub Cleaner” that are specifically designed to clean the crud out of jetted bathtubs. These products can be particularly effective for tough grime and biofilm.
Using Alternative Cleaning Agents
Hydrogen Peroxide
For those who prefer not to use bleach or are on a septic system, hydrogen peroxide can be a good alternative. It is gentler on the system and does not kill the beneficial microbes in the septic tank.
Natural Products
Using natural products like lemons and vinegar not only cleans the tub but also leaves a pleasant scent and is environmentally friendly. This method is particularly appealing for those who prefer to avoid harsh chemicals.
By following these steps and tips, you can keep your bathtub jets clean, ensure optimal performance, and maintain a hygienic and relaxing bathing environment. Regular cleaning is key to preventing the buildup of grime and debris, making future cleanings easier and more efficient.