With winter in full swing, your hot tub is bound to be a popular destination for everyone in your household. That being the case, remember that cleanliness is critical to your health and the hot tub’s health. And if you want to have clean water in a clean tub, you’ll need to know how to clean your spa cover.
Why Clean Your Spa Cover?
Maintaining a clean spa cover is non-negotiable for both aesthetic and health-related reasons. On the one hand, it helps keep your hot tub looking its best by blocking debris that may otherwise fall into it. Moreover, it helps prevent the spread of bacteria and other microorganisms in the water that could compromise your health.
The state of your spa cover has big financial implications as well. Cleaning your cover properly will make it last longer. And the longer your spa cover can perform at its best, the longer your hot tub can go without needing repairs or replacements. If, on the other hand, you let your cover go too long without proper cleaning, it’s more prone to deterioration. That can set off a chain of events that result in expensive damage control in the future.
How Often Should You Clean Your Spa Cover?
You should aim to clean your spa cover once every month or more often if necessary. If you notice a layer of dirt, debris, or moisture (i.e., water, snow, ice) on the cover, it’s best to remove it as soon as possible. That way, you’re not only making the cover look better, but you’re relieving it from the excess weight that can lead to sagging.
If you notice a foul odor coming from your spa cover, that’s your cue to clean it — no matter how recent the last cleaning was. That odor is likely coming from mold growing on the underside of the cover, which brings us to the next crucial point.
How to Clean a Spa Cover: Top and Bottom
Remember, your cover is exposed to the elements on two sides. The underside faces a lot of evaporation and condensation from the heated water. If it goes too long without cleaning, it can become a breeding ground.
The outward-facing side is up against everything else Mother Nature can throw at it. Therefore, be sure to clean both sides of the cover when the time comes.
You can easily wipe down both sides of your spa cover using a soft cloth and a mixture that is 2 parts water to 1 part vinegar. Alternatively, you can use a specific hot tub cover cleaning/conditioning product. Be sure to get into all nooks and crannies. Take care not to scrub too hard, since that can damage the fabric. After washing, rinse off any residue with clean water and let it dry.
Cleaning in Winter
The accumulation of snow and ice can seriously weaken your spa cover if left unaddressed. The good news is that you don’t need anything special to free your cover from winter elements.
To remove snow and ice, use a soft-bristled brush or broom to gently sweep it off the cover’s surface. You may also want to apply some de-icing solution if necessary, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully as they vary from one product to another.
Hot Tub Dealers in Central Pennsylvania
In conclusion, keeping your spa cover clean (on the top and bottom) is essential to your hot tub’s performance and longevity. Remember to give it a good cleaning at least several times a season or more frequently if needed.
Where can you go for more hot tub maintenance tips or spa covers in Central Pennsylvania? Goodall Pools & Spas is your one-stop shop for Sundance® Spas, Viking Spas™, and Wellis® Spas hot tubs, accessories, and covers! Contact us or visit one of our five stores today. We’ll help you identify everything you need to keep your hot tub safe, sparkling, and soothing.
