How to Clean a Hot Tub Filter
A filter that is rinsed weekly and deep cleaned every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the water clear
The cartridge does the quiet work of catching what the water carries. This guide gives you the rinse, the deep clean and the signs for a fresh one.
Rinse weekly, deep clean every 4 to 6 weeks.
The weekly rinse
Take the cartridge out
Follow your manual to remove it from the filter housing.2
Skip the brush
Brushing can push the dirt deeper into the pleats.1
Add a spray if you like
Spray lightly, leave for 15 minutes and rinse with fresh water. See the Jacuzzi filter cleaner spray.6
Dry and refit
Let the cartridge dry completely, then refit it, ready for the next soak.6
The deep clean, every 4 to 6 weeks
Rinse off any debris first, then soak the cartridge in a bucket of warm water with your chosen cleaner.35
| Cleaner | Mix | Soak |
|---|---|---|
| Jacuzzi powder | 100 g in a bucket of warm water3 | Overnight, then rinse3 |
| AquaFinesse tablets | 2 tablets in 10 litres of warm water, 1 tablet for small filters4 | At least 1 hour, up to 24 hours if heavily soiled4 |
| AquaSPArkle sachet | One sachet in a bucket of clean water5 | Overnight, then rinse5 |
Keep the cartridge fully under the water, or turn it so every part gets cleaned.4 After the soak, rinse it upright with a strong stream from top to bottom, and let it dry before you refit it.4
When to clean sooner, and when to replace
Clean it sooner if
The jets feel weaker, the water is cloudy after proper sanitising or your pressure gauge reads about 5 psi above its clean-filter level.1
Our cloudy, foamy or green water guide covers the other causes of cloudy water.
Replace it when
A filter cleaned at least weekly can last beyond six months, depending on use.36
Plan to fit a new one at least every 12 months, and follow your manufacturer's guidance on regular cartridge replacement.72
Help it last
Body oils and lotions coat and clog the filter mesh, so a shower before you get in keeps the pleats clear for longer.1
Your filter cleaning kit
Pick the cleaner that suits your routine. Every one is new and in stock now.
Jacuzzi Instant Filter Cleaner Spray
500 ml · £13.99
For the weekly clean. Spray, soak 15 minutes and rinse.
Jacuzzi Hot Tub Filter Cleaner Powder
500 g · £14.99
For the deep clean. An overnight soak that lasts five cleans.
AquaFinesse Filter Cleaning Tablets
20 tablets · £21.99
For a quick deep clean in about an hour, with no overnight soak.
Quick answers
Open a question to read the answer.
How often should I clean my hot tub filter?
Rinse it once a week and give it a full clean with a filter cleaner every 4 to 6 weeks.
Can I scrub the filter with a brush?
Use a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle instead. Brushing can push the dirt deeper into the pleats.
How do I know the filter needs cleaning?
Signs include weaker jets, cloudy water after proper sanitising and a pressure gauge reading that has climbed well above its clean-filter level.
How long does a filter last?
If it is cleaned weekly, a filter can last beyond six months depending on use. Plan to fit a new one at least every 12 months.
Should I keep a spare filter?
Yes. With two cartridges, one can soak and dry while the other keeps your tub running.
Sources
- King County, Washington, Department of Public Health, Staying Happy and Healthy in Your Spa and Hot Tub, sixth edition (undated): cartridge cleaning, signs, spare cartridge
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Controlling Legionella in Hot Tubs (page updated 3 January 2025): manufacturer guidance, filter replacement, continuous circulation
- Jacuzzi, Hot Tub Filter Cleaner Powder 500 g product page, sold by Outdoor Living: dose, overnight soak, 4 to 6 week routine (current)
- AquaFinesse, Hot Tub Filter Cleaning Tablets 1 kg product page, sold by Outdoor Living: step-by-step use (current)
- AquaSPArkle, Immerse Hot Tub Filter Cartridge Cleaner Aqua Sachet product page, sold by Outdoor Living: overnight soak (current)
- Jacuzzi, Instant Hot Tub Filter Cleaner Spray product page, sold by Outdoor Living: spray, 15 minute soak, weekly (current)
- Outdoor Living, Hot Tub No Foam 1 L product page: filter rinse and replacement guidance (current)
Paul Margerison
Managing Director & Founder, Outdoor Living
A clean filter does the quiet work for you. Rinse it weekly and the water stays clear.