How to Clean Jetted Tub with Dishwasher Tablets: Easy Tips
Fill the tub with hot water, ensuring jets are submerged. Add 1-2 dishwasher tablets. Run jets for 15-20 minutes, then drain. Rinse thoroughly. This method dissolves soap scum and residue without harsh chemicals.
Preparing Your Jetted Tub for Cleaning

Initial Inspection and Debris Removal
Before you begin the cleaning process, it is important to inspect your jetted tub carefully. Look for any foreign objects such as hair, small toys, or other items that might have found their way into the tub.
Removing these objects will prevent any blockages in the jet system and ensure an effective cleaning process. Use your hands or a pair of tweezers to gently extract any visible debris from the tub.
Surface Cleaning and Grime Reduction
Once the larger debris is removed, take a soft cloth or sponge and gently wipe down the surfaces of the jetted tub.
This step targets the visible dirt and grime, making the deep cleaning with dishwasher tablets even more effective.
Pay special attention to the waterline where residue tends to build up.
This preliminary clean helps to ensure that the dishwasher tablets can focus on the tougher build-up within the jets and the plumbing system behind them.
Proper Water Level for Jet Submersion
To prepare your tub for cleaning with dishwasher tablets, you must fill it with hot water. The hot water will help dissolve the tablets quickly and aid in loosening buildup within the jets.
Make sure that the water level is high enough to fully submerge all of the jets, as this is crucial for the cleaning solution to reach all parts of the system.
Adjusting the Tub Settings
If your jetted tub comes with air-induction valves, it’s time to turn them off.
These valves usually add air to the water jets for a more vigorous massage, but during cleaning, it’s best to have just water flowing through the system.
This ensures that the dishwasher tablet solution is not diluted and can work effectively to clean the internal components of the jets.
Cleaning the Tub with Dishwasher Tablets

Dissolving the Dishwasher Tablets
With the tub full of hot water, take 1 to 2 dishwasher tablets and add them to the water. Stir the water gently to help the tablets dissolve faster.
These tablets are formulated to break down food and grease, making them perfect for cutting through the soap scum and residue that often accumulate in jetted tubs.
Activating the Cleaning Cycle
Turn on the jets to start the cleaning cycle. The water mixed with the dissolved dishwasher tablets will be pushed through the jets, cleaning out any buildup within the pipes.
This is like giving your jetted tub a good internal massage, ensuring that the cleaning solution reaches every nook and cranny.
Duration of Jet Circulation
Allow the jets to run for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
During this time, the turbulence created by the jets along with the cleaning properties of the dishwasher tablets work together to dislodge and break down grime, bacteria, and any biofilm.
Draining After Cleaning
After the jets have run for the recommended time, turn them off and proceed to drain the tub.
You’ll likely notice the water is now carrying away the dirt and residue that was once inside the jets and pipes.
This is a good sign that the cleaning process is working as intended.
Rinsing and Final Touches

Cold Water Rinse Cycle
After draining the tub, refill it with cold water. Cold water helps to rinse away any loose debris and remaining cleaning solution.
Turn the jets back on and let them run for another 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial in ensuring that all the cleaning agents and dislodged residue are flushed out of the system.
Draining and Surface Rinsing
Drain the cold rinse water from the tub. With a handheld shower head or a pitcher, gently rinse the surfaces of the tub to wash away any leftover cleaning solution.
This helps prevent any potential skin irritation the next time you use the tub for a relaxing soak.
Drying and Polishing the Tub
Using a clean, dry cloth, wipe down the entire surface of the tub.
This not only removes any remaining residue but also polishes the surface, restoring the shine to your jetted tub.
A dry tub also prevents water spots and inhibits the growth of mold and mildew.
Spot Cleaning for Stubborn Stains
If you notice any spots that have not been completely cleaned by the dishwasher tablets, you can perform additional spot cleaning.
Use a small amount of tub cleaner and a non-abrasive sponge to gently scrub these areas. Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe dry with a cloth.
FAQs About Cleaning Jetted Tub with Dishwasher Tablets
How many dishwasher tablets should I use to clean a jetted tub?
You should add 1 to 2 dishwasher tablets to the hot water when cleaning a jetted tub.
How long should I run the jets when cleaning with dishwasher tablets?
Run the jets for 15 to 20 minutes after adding dishwasher tablets to the hot water.
Do I need to submerge the jets when using dishwasher tablets for cleaning?
Yes, ensure the jets are fully submerged in hot water when cleaning with dishwasher tablets.
Is it necessary to rinse the tub after cleaning it with dishwasher tablets?
Yes, it is necessary to thoroughly rinse the tub after draining it to remove any residue from the cleaning process.
Can dishwasher tablets clean soap scum and residue without harsh chemicals?
Yes, dishwasher tablets can dissolve soap scum and residue in a jetted tub without the need for harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning a jetted tub with dishwasher tablets is an efficient process that involves filling the tub with hot water above the jets, adding 1-2 tablets, and running the jets for 15-20 minutes.
This method effectively removes soap scum and residue without the need for harsh chemicals. After draining, a thorough rinse is necessary to complete the cleaning.