You own a super cool hot tub! It’s hot, bubbly, and the ultimate relaxing spot. You dive in after work and let the jets tickle your toes. But wait—what’s that strange gooey gunk on top of the water?
Yuck! That gloopy, slushy, and often foamy goo is officially known as hot tub scum. It’s no fun, and it sure doesn’t belong in your neat and comfortable spa. But don’t panic—this blog will guide you through what hot tub scum is, where it originates, why it’s a bad guy, and most importantly, how to eliminate it and prevent it from returning!
Let’s begin!
What Is Hot Tub Scum?
Hot tub scum is the gross material you occasionally notice floating around in your spa water or clinging to the walls. It may be white, brown, gray, or even greenish in color. It may appear foamy or oily. It’s not something you’d like to share a soak with!
But where does it originate? It’s not witchcraft. It’s really a mixture of things that flake off our bodies and from items in our environment. The following are some of the most significant reasons for hot tub scum:
Body oils: Clean skin has oils. These can become suspended in the water.
Lotion and sunscreen: If you fail to rinse off first, these will melt into the water.
Soap and shampoo: Excess soap on your skin or swimsuits can create foamy scum.
Dirt and leaves: If your hot tub is outside, nature may be sneaking in too!
They all get mixed together and become what we call hot tub scum—a sticky mess nobody wants to swim in!
Why Is Hot Tub Scum Bad?
You may ask, “Is it that big of a deal?” Yes, it is! Hot tub scum is a pain in the neck for your hot tub and for you:
It gives the water a dirty, gross appearance.
It will clog the filter and prevent it from functioning as well.
It will cause the water to become cloudy and stinky.
It will irritate your skin or cause you to break out into a rash.
It can break down your hot tub sooner with time.
A grubby hot tub isn’t gross only—can be unhealthy too. That’s the reason why it’s so crucial to banish scum from your spa.
How to Remove Hot Tub Scum
Now that you know what hot tub scum is, let’s discuss how to remove it. Good news: it’s easy if you follow a few straightforward steps!
- Utilize a Skimmer Net
A skimmer net is similar to a small pool net you use to scoop up floating debris.
What to do: Use the net to scoop up leaves, foam, or scum floating on the surface beforehand or after every soak.
Why it works: It’s easy, quick, and prevents scum before it gets out of hand.
How often: Do it every time you use your hot tub.
- Add a Scum Bug
A scum bug is a little sponge that floats and absorbs oily things.
What to do: Throw one or two into your hot tub and let them drift.
Why it works: It catches oils and lotions before they can form hot tub scum.
How often: Leave it in permanently and clean it out when it gets grimy.
- Wipe the Sides
Occasionally scum clings to the side of the waterline.
Do this: With a soft cloth or sponge, wipe along the inside walls.
Why it works: Keeping the sides clean prevents buildup.
How often: Clean the sides every week or whenever you notice buildup.
- Clean the Filters
Filters are the hot tub’s lungs—they allow it to breathe by filtering the water.
What to do: Wash filters with water or filter cleaner.
Why it works: Clean filters catch the gunk before it becomes scum.
How often: Wash weekly and deep clean monthly.
- Balance the Water
Out-of-balance water can make it more likely for scum to grow.
What to do: Use test strips to test pH, chlorine, and other levels.
Why it works: Balanced water keeps all clean and safe.
How often: Test 2–3 times a week, or as often as your grown-up recommends.
How to Stop Hot Tub Scum Before It Starts
The ideal way to handle hot tub scum is to prevent it from appearing! Here are some wonderful tips to have your spa clean right from the beginning.
- Take a Quick Shower Before You Soak
Why it helps: It washes off body oils, lotions, and dirt before they enter the water.
When: Every time—no skipping!
- Rinse Your Swimsuit Well
Why it helps: Soap and laundry detergent can cause foam and scum.
What to do: Rinse swimsuits in clean water after washing.
- Cover Your Hot Tub
Why it helps: Keeps leaves, bugs, and dirt out when you’re not using it.
Bonus tip: A clean cover keeps your water cleaner too!
- Don’t Bring Food or Drinks in the Hot Tub
Why it helps: Crumbs, spills, and sticky stuff can create scum fast.
What to do: Keep snacks and drinks outside the spa.
- Drain and Refill Every Few Months
Why it helps: Gets rid of built-up scum and chemicals for a fresh start.
What to do: Get a grown-up to drain and clean the tub, and then fill it with new water.
How often: Every 3–4 months.
Keep Your Hot Tub Happy!
You’re now an expert on hot tub scum—what it is, why it’s yucky, and how to battle it like a pro! With a clean hot tub, you get more time to relax, play, and enjoy warm fizzy water with your family and friends.
Just remember:
Scoop the scum
Use a scum bug
Wipe it down
Clean the filter
Balance the water
Shower before you soak!
By keeping up with your routine, your hot tub will treat you like royalty. So bid adieu to hot tub scum and hello to clean, sparkling water every time!