 | Our Top Pick  |  |
4.6 | 5.0 | 4.4 |
$19.95 | $23.99 | |
What better way to relax than by soaking in a hot tub at the end of the day? Not only is it a great way to relieve stress but the massaging action of the jets can also help relax and soothe tense, tight muscles.
In doing so, it can help relieve some types of pain. For example, it can help those with arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Given that, it’s easy to see why hot tubs are so popular. In the U.S. alone, there are nearly 6 million of them – which isn’t surprising, seeing as how they last decades.
But let’s face it, going to the swimming pool every time just for the hot tub isn’t very convenient. That’s why some people choose to buy one for their homes instead.
While they’re not exactly cheap, they can be a worthwhile investment for those who use them regularly. It’s also a great way to spend time with family and friends.
The only thing is that you do have to maintain them regularly – that means sanitizing the tub weekly and draining and flushing the entire thing three to four times a year.
That’s not all, the filter also needs to be cleaned every month. That way, you won’t have to worry about the water quality causing clogs. For example, algae, bacteria, and other pollutants can build up on the surface and make their way to the filter.
And if that happens, your hot tub pump will have to work harder to pull water through, and over time, that can cause irreversible damage. That’s why it’s so important to keep up with your cleaning schedule.
In terms of how to clean them, it’s best to use a commercial hot tub filter cleaner – they’re specifically formulated to increase the efficiency and lifespan of your filter.
Are you looking for a hot tub filter cleaner? Wondering which product you should get? Then look no further – we’ve compiled a list of some of the best options for 2025 below. Keep reading to find out what they are!
Top 10 Hot Tub Filter Cleaners – Our Top Picks For 2025
Without further delay, here are the best hot tub filter cleaners that are available in 2025.
5.0$19.95ACTIVE Hot Tub & Spa Filter Cleaner is formulated to deep clean any removable cartridge-style filters found in hot tubs, pools, and spas. Mix this concentrated cleaning solution water then soak the filter overnight for best results. This cleaner is designed to remove contaminants from the filter like grease, body oils, dirt, soap residue, and more. Regularly cleaning with ACTIVE helps to improve water purity and extend the usable lifespan of the filter.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:5.0Ease of Use:5.0Value:5.0Our Review: The Hot Tub & Spa Filter Cleaner is one of the newest offerings in ACTIVE's wide variety of cleaning products. This concentrated formula provides a highly effective clean without the use of harsh chemicals. Our testing revealed the power of this product - after an overnight soak, the hot tub filter looked as good as new.
The benefits of ACTIVE Hot Tub & Spa Filter Cleaner go beyond just clearer tub water. Regular monthly cleaning helps extend the usable life of the filter and ensure it functions optimally - preventing residue and debris from damaging the pump and other internal components. A 32oz bottle contains enough concentrated solution for multiple cleanings, depending on the size of the filter. Simply mix 4oz of ACTIVE per 1 gallon of water used until the filter is full submerged. Made in the USA.Type: LiquidAmount: 32ozNumber Of Uses: Up to 8 uses per bottle (depending on filter size)Pros:- - Powerful deep clean removes residues and dirt from filters
- - Helps improve water purity
- - Regular usage can extend usable life of filters
Cons:- - Customers outside of the US have to pay for shipping
03/10/2024 05:54 pm GMT
4.5$28.98$24.98 ($0.78 / Ounce)Spa Depot Power Soak Filter Deep Cleaner features a fast-acting, heavy-duty granular formula that's suitable for both hot tub and pool filter cartridges. Recommended by major manufacturers, it is designed to remove body oils, dirt, grime, and lotion residues. Contains enzymes for additional cleaning power.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.5Ease of Use:5.0Value:5.0Our Review: Spa Depot Power Soak Filter Deep Cleaner cleans well and is super easy to use. It doesn't smell like chemicals either, which makes it a good option for those who are sensitive to scents. It's also good value for the price as one bottle can be used for at least three rounds of cleaning.
Keep in mind, however, that you do need to dissolve the powder in water first, before using.Type: PowderAmount: 454 gramsNumber Of Uses: At least 3 uses per bottlePros:- - Cleans effectively
- - Features an enzymatic formula
- - Doesn't smell like chemicals
Cons:- - Powder has to be dissolved in water prior to using
03/11/2024 02:09 am GMT
4.5$23.99Aquadoc Professional Filter Clean Spa & Pool Care is specifically designed to clean cartridge filters, diatomaceous earth filters, and sand filters. Easy to use, the fast-acting formula is capable of removing suntan, dirt, grease, scale, and other contaminants from the filter. Suitable for hot tubs, home spas, and pools. Made in the USA with the highest quality ingredients.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.5Ease of Use:5.0Value:4.5Our Review: Aquadoc Professional Filter Clean Spa & Pool Care is highly effective at removing residue and buildup. It's also convenient to use in that all you need to do is soak it for 60 minutes - there's no need to soak overnight. The directions on the bottle are also clear and easy to follow.
The only drawback is that you do have to use an entire bottle for one cleaning so it's not the cheapest option out there.Type: LiquidAmount: 946 mlNumber Of Uses: One per bottlePros:- - Effective at removing scum and buildup
- - Made in the USA
- - Can also be used for pools and spas
Cons:- - You need to use one bottle per cleaning
03/11/2024 02:14 am GMT
4.5$24.47Leisure Time Instant Cartridge Cleaner features a fast-acting spray and rinse formula that's quick and easy to use. It also comes with a color indicator, which will show you where the product has been applied for complete coverage. Compatible with all sanitizers including bromine, chlorine, biguanide, and ozone.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.5Ease of Use:4.5Value:4.5Our Review: Leisure Time Instant Cartridge Cleaner is a great option for those who are looking for something that works quickly. Unlike other products, it doesn't require soaking; simply spray and rinse after five minutes. The color indicator is also nice in that it allows for complete coverage.
The product is harsh on the hands, though, so be sure to use gloves when you're applying the spray.Type: SprayAmount: 16 fl ozNumber Of Uses: Up to 6 or 7 uses per bottlePros:- - Spray works quickly
- - Comes with color indicator
- - Compatible with all sanitizers
Cons:- - Liquid is harsh on the hands
03/11/2024 02:19 am GMT
4.5$19.98Black Diamond Stoneworks Ultimate Spa Filter Cleaner will improve the efficiency of the filter by removing body oils, suntan lotion, and other organic materials. Features a fast-rinsing formula that leaves no slimy residue. Free of harsh chemicals such as chlorine and phosphates.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.5Ease of Use:4.5Value:4.0Our Review: Black Diamond Stoneworks Ultimate Spa Filter Cleaner is easy to use and highly effective. You don't need to soak the filter for hours either- just apply the spray and wait a few minutes before rinsing with water. It also has a pleasant smell.
Just make sure to wear gloves when you're using the spray as it can irritate the skin.Type: LiquidAmount: 946 mlNumber Of Uses: UnspecifiedPros:- - Spray is convenient to use
- - Pleasant smell
Cons:- - Product can irritate the skin
03/11/2024 12:04 pm GMT
4.0EcoOne Filter Cleaner is designed to eliminate all residue and foam. Made of all-natural ingredients, it's free of harsh chemicals such as chlorine and phosphates and will help extend the life of your filter. Fully biodegradable.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.5Ease of Use:3.5Value:4.0Our Review: EcoOne Filter Cleaner is ideal for those who are looking for an all-natural product. Not only is it environmentally friendly but it's also great at removing soap scum and debris. It doesn't leave behind any noticeable odor either.
Keep in mind, however, that it doesn't work that well for algae. The product also takes a bit of time to dissolve in water.Type: PowderAmount: 226 gramsNumber Of Uses: Up to 50 uses per bottlePros:- - Made of all-natural ingredients
- - No noticeable odor
- - Cost effective
Cons:- - Powder takes time to dissolve
- - Not that effective for algae
4.0$24.00 ($0.75 / Fl Oz)Leisure Time Spa Care Filter Cleaner will improve the efficiency and life of the filter by removing oil, grease, soap scum, dirt, and organic material. Features a soak-and-rinse formula that's suitable for sand, diatomaceous earth, and cartridge filters. Compatible with all sanitizers.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.0Ease of Use:4.0Value:4.0Our Review: While it's not the cheapest option, it definitely works, especially if you soak the filter overnight. It doesn't leave behind any smells either.
In terms of cons, it can take a bit of time to use, seeing as how you have to soak the filter in the solution for several hours. And be careful with the dosage- if you use too much, you'll end up with tons of foam.Type: LiquidAmount: 946 mlNumber Of Uses: Up to 2 uses per bottlePros:- - Effective
- - Doesn't leave behind any smells
Cons:- - Takes time for it to work
- - Using too much will cause excessive foaming
03/11/2024 10:44 am GMT
4.0$19.99 ($0.62 / Fl Oz)SpaGuard Filter Cleaner features a powerful formula that breaks down body oils, dirt, and grime embedded in filters. Comes with an easy-to-use sprayer applicator and can be used with all types of hot tub filters. Regular use will keep insoluble particles out of the water.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.0Ease of Use:3.5Value:4.0Our Review: SpaGuard Filter Cleaner is convenient to use as it comes with a spray nozzle. It doesn't require soaking either, which helps save time. The formula also contains enzymes, meaning it's capable of dissolving dirt and gunk.
The way the sprayer head is designed, however, it's prone to leaks. It also has a tendency of swiveling as you spray, which can make things difficult.Type: SprayAmount: 946 mlNumber Of Uses: UnspecifiedPros:- - Spray is convenient to use
- - No soaking required
- - Enzymatic formula
Cons:- - Design flaws with spray nozzle
03/11/2024 09:14 am GMT
4.0$17.49 ($1.09 / Fl Oz)O Yuk Healthy Hot Tub Cleaner will improve filtration by removing contaminants such as body oils, dirt, and soap scum from the filter. In addition to that, it can also be used to clean the hot tub itself.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.0Ease of Use:3.5Value:3.5Our Review: O Yuk Healthy Hot Tub Cleaner is great if you're looking for a two-in-one product that can be used to clean the tub and the filter. Not only will it remove buildup from the surface but it'll also clean the inner piping.
Compared to other products, however, it's not as effective for jetted tubs. The product is also on the expensive side as you may need to use the entire bottle for one cleaning, depending on the size of your tub.Type: LiquidAmount: 473 mlNumber Of Uses: Up to 2 uses per bottlePros:- - Can be used to clean the tub as well as the filter
- - Easy to use
Cons:- - Not the best for jetted tubs
- - A bit expensive
03/11/2024 10:14 am GMT
3.5Bespoke+ Hot Tub and Spa Care Filter Cleaner is a professional strength product that will clean your filter in less than one hour. Made of top-quality ingredients, it will extend the life of the spa filter by eliminating dirt, grease, and other pollutants. Can also be used to clean pool filters. Made in the USA.
Buy On AmazonCleaning Power:4.0Ease of Use:3.5Value:3.5Our Review: Bespoke+ Hot Tub and Spa Care Filter Cleaner is a decent option for those who are looking for something that can be used for hot tubs and pools.
Keep in mind, however, that it can take some time for it to dissolve in water. Compared to other brands, it also requires twice as much liquid to immerse filter cartridges.Type: LiquidAmount:Number Of Uses: UnspecifiedPros:- - Can be used for hot tubs and pools
- - Made in the USA
Cons:- - Takes a while to dissolve in water
- - Not the cheapest
- - Requires twice as much product to immerse filters
Hot Tub Filter Cleaners – Q&A
What is the best thing to clean hot tub filters with?
It's best to use a commercial hot tub filter cleaning product. While DIY options such as vinegar may help remove some deposits, they won't be enough to remove all contaminants from the filter. Commercial products, on the other hand, will effectively loosen grease and oils so that you can easily wash and rinse them away with a hose.
How often do you need to soak a hot tub filter?
Ideally, you want to soak and clean the filter in a cleaning solution every one to two months- when you're changing the water for the hot tub. Never use dishwater detergent, bleach, or other household cleaners. Depending on how often you're using the spa, however, you may want to rinse your filters once a week to prevent residue from building up.
What happens if you don’t clean your hot tub filter?
Over time, sediment and other debris can clog the filters if they're not cleaned properly. That will decrease water flow, which will make it more difficult for water to pump through the filter. Not only that but chemicals can also accumulate and eat away at the filter material. That's why it's so important to keep up with your cleaning schedule.
Why is my hot tub filter turning brown?
Metals in the water such as iron can stain the filter over time, giving them a light brown appearance. In some cases, it may also appear yellow, green, gray, or purple. Fortunately, the presence of metals doesn't affect the filter's performance, or the length of time between cleanings.
Do you need to pre soak hot tub filters?
Unless you're using a non-rinse cleaner, it's highly recommended that you soak the filter for a few hours. Just make sure to rinse it thoroughly with water afterward, otherwise you'll get excessive foaming.
Can I soak my hot tub filter in chlorine?
No, harsh chemicals such as chlorine and bleach should never be used to clean hot tub filters. They can easily damage the filter media and reduce its lifespan. Household cleaners should also be avoided as that can cause significant foaming.
Why does my hot tub filter keep clogging?
Hot tub filters can easily clog with dirt and other debris. If left alone, they can cause the filter to stop working entirely and that can lead to bad odors, cloudy water, and even skin irritation.
How often do you need to change a hot tub filter?
It's highly recommended that you replace the hot tub filter once a year. Some higher-quality products, however, can be used for up to two to thee years, depending on how often the spa is used. Low-quality filters, however, generally need to be replaced much sooner.
