Nothing compares to relaxing in a nice soothing tub of warm water, until you turn on the jets and stuff shoots out all over you! Jetted tubs need regular cleaning to prevent the buildup of mildew, mold, and gunk - especially if you haven't used your tub jets in a while.
Cleaning a whirlpool doesn't require special chemicals and tools. These 5 bathtub cleaning hacks will give you peace of mind knowing your jets are always ready to use.
1. Use bleach and borax (h/t Rachel Teodoro)Bleach and borax are powerful cleaners known for easily tackling mold and mildew. To use their power to clean your tub jets, simply fill your tub until the warm water covers your jets. Add a cap of bleach and a generous sprinkle of borax. Turn on the jets for 10 minutes. Drain the tub, wipe out, and refill with warm water. Run the jets for another 10 minutes to rinse. Drain and enjoy a nice clean tub. Make sure to use your exhaust fan to help reduce any bleach fumes.
2. Clean your tub with natural cleanersMany households prefer to use gentle, natural cleaners, such as baking soda and vinegar. These cleaners are inexpensive and effective at cleaning bathtub jets. Start by sprinkling baking soda over the surface of your tub. Use a damp cleaning cloth to gently clean the interior. Don't rinse, instead fill your tub with warm water to the point that the jets are covered. Add three cups of vinegar and turn on your jets. Allow things to bubble for at least three minutes. Drain and refill with clean water. Run the jets again to rinse.
3. Eliminate hard water deposits Hard water deposits can build up around your bathtub jets over time. They often appear as hard, white calcification. While commercial hard water and limescale removers are available, they are quite harsh. Instead of purchasing a specialized product, reach for powdered dishwasher detergent. After filling your tub, simply add 1 cup of vinegar or bleach and 1/2 cup powdered dishwasher detergent. Run the tub jets for 15 minutes. Allow water to remain in tub for one hour, then drain and rinse.
4. Grab some flossYou've flushed your jets and scrubbed your tub, but there is one more place gunk can build up: behind the jet faces. The perfect solution to getting into this tight space is right in your medicine cabinet. Use floss to help remove the buildup from around and behind your jets.
5. Scrub with a toothbrush The small areas of a whirlpool, such as your jet openings, around the faucet, and behind the overflow, can be extremely difficult to clean. The best tool for getting into these tight spaces is an old toothbrush. For added cleaning power, dip it in a bit of baking soda, scrub, then rinse.
