How to Clean Jets in a Jetted Tub

Clean Bath Water After Cleaning the Jets.

How to Clean the Jets in Your Bathtub.

Cleaning Jetted Tub Jets

If you love soaking in a Jacuzzi or whirlpool bath after a workout, you’re not the only one enjoying the water—soap scum, mold, mildew, and bacteria love it too! Even after you drain the tub, water remains in the pipes, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and biofilm (a slimy buildup of germs).

My husband and I learned this the hard way when our hot tub pipes froze and burst last winter, even though we thought it was fully drained. It was an expensive reminder that water lingers in the pipes, even after draining.

Keeping the jets clean not only helps your tub work properly but also protects you from soaking in stagnant, dirty water.

Why Bathtub Jets Get Dirty

Jets get dirty due to leftover soap, skin cells, body oils, and other bath products. Bar soap and bubble bath are the worst offenders. This mix of debris creates biofilm inside the pipes, which can cause odors, discoloration, and possibly even infections if left unchecked.

If you see dark flecks, gunk, or notice a bad smell when using the jets, it’s time for a deep clean.

Bacteria Doesn’t Belong in Your Bath!

Biofilm is a group of microorganisms that stick together in humid, non-sterile places—like the plumbing of your jetted tub. When you turn on the jets, bacteria, dead skin, and soap residue shoot back into the water.

According to microbiologist Dr. Rita B. Moyes, a teaspoon of whirlpool tub water can contain over 2.17 million bacteria! This makes regular cleaning essential.

How to Clean the Jets

Now that you know why it’s important, here’s how to clean your bathtub jets.

Flushing the Water in the Pipes

Fill the tub with hot water.
Run the jets for 10-15 minutes to flush out soap scum, hair, and oils.
Drain the tub.

If there’s buildup in the jet openings, gently scrub them with an old toothbrush.

Regular Jet Cleaning (Monthly)

For a thorough clean, do this once a month or more often if needed:

Fill the tub with hot water, about an inch above the highest jet.
Add 1/2 cup of laundry detergent.
Run the jets for 15 minutes.
Drain the tub and refill with clean lukewarm water.
Run the jets for another 15 minutes.
Drain the tub and dry it with a towel.

Removing Mold and Mildew

Bleach kills mold and mildew on contact. Here’s how to use it safely:

Open a window or turn on a fan.
Fill the tub with hot water.
Add 4 cups of bleach.
Run the jets for 15 minutes.
Drain the tub and refill with lukewarm water.
Run the jets for another 15 minutes, then drain again.
Dry the tub completely with a clean towel.

Deodorizing with Vinegar

Vinegar is a great odor neutralizer. It’s milder than bleach but can still help clean the jets:

Fill the tub with hot water.
Add 1 gallon of white vinegar.
Run the jets for 15 minutes, then drain and wipe down the tub.

Heavy-Duty Jet Cleaning

For deeper cleanings, use a biofilm cleaner like Ahh-Some Hot Tub and Jetted Tub Cleaner. These cleaners are designed to remove bacteria, mold, and soap residue from the pipes. Just follow the instructions on the package for a full clean.