Best Vacuum for an Inflatable Hot Tub

Keeping your inflatable hot tub clean can feel like a never-ending battle, especially when traditional vacuums are too clunky, expensive, or simply not made for the job.

Dealing with dirt, leaves, and sand that settle at the bottom of the tub, all while trying not to damage the material, is frustrating. But here’s the good news: there are plenty of solutions that fit your specific needs.

From simple, manual vacuums to high-tech rechargeable models, we’ve got you covered with options that make maintenance easier than ever—no sweat.

Why Should You Use a Vacuum for Your Inflatable Hot Tub?

Why is it important to vacuum an inflatable hot tub?

Vacuuming helps remove debris, dirt, and small particles that accumulate over time, ensuring a cleaner and more enjoyable soaking experience. For more Are Inflatable Hot Tubs a Safety Hazard?

Best Hot Tub Vacuums

When it comes to finding the right vacuum, three standouts in 2024 offer a balance of power, convenience, and ease of use. Each option caters to different needs, whether you’re looking for something lightweight or powerful enough for stubborn debris.

Best Battery-Powered Vacuum: Water Tech Pool Blaster Cordless Spa Vacuum

If convenience and power are what you’re after, the Water Tech Pool Blaster Cordless Spa Vacuum is a fantastic choice. This battery-operated model is perfect for those who want a cordless solution for their inflatable hot tub.

It’s known for its powerful suction, making quick work of small to medium debris like dirt, leaves, and sand. With a large-capacity filter bag, you won’t need to stop and empty it frequently, allowing you to clean your hot tub without interruptions.

A Water Tech Pool Blaster Cordless Spa Vacuum on a table.

Battery life: Up to 3 hours with five D-cell batteries.
Portability: Cordless and easy to maneuver.
Ideal for: Smaller pools and inflatable hot tubs.
Consideration: It’s the heaviest of the options listed, and you’ll need to replace or recharge the D batteries regularly.

This vacuum is an excellent choice for those wanting efficiency with minimal hassle, especially if you’re looking for a product that requires little setup and works well for regular clean-ups.

Best Siphon-Powered Vacuum: Aura 6250 Spa Vacuum

For those who prefer a simple, no-frills approach to cleaning, the Aura 6250 Spa Vacuum is a top contender. It uses a siphon action to suck up debris without the need for any batteries or electricity. This makes it a great eco-friendly option for smaller jobs.

Power source: Siphon-powered, requiring no batteries.
Setup: Extremely simple—just submerge, pump, and let the siphon do the work.
Best for: Quick clean-ups of small debris like sand or dirt.
Downside: Because it relies on siphon power, it may take longer to clean compared to battery-powered vacuums.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, manual solution that works well for quick touch-ups, the Aura 6250 delivers a fuss-free cleaning experience.

Best Rechargeable Vacuum: Intex PureSpa Handheld Vacuum

The Intex PureSpa Handheld Vacuum is another strong option, particularly for inflatable hot tubs.

Its rechargeable battery means you won’t have to worry about constantly replacing batteries, and the compact design makes it ideal for small debris, such as dirt and sand.

With a detachable hose and multiple nozzles, this vacuum provides a versatile cleaning experience.

A Intex Spa handheld rechargeable (Handheld Manual Vacuum)

Battery type: Rechargeable, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements.
Best for: Small debris in inflatable hot tubs and above-ground pools.
Attachments: Includes a three-foot-long hose and multiple nozzles for cleaning jets and hard-to-reach corners.
Consideration: Works best for light debris, so it may not be ideal for larger leaves or heavy dirt.

For those wanting a lightweight, rechargeable option, the Intex PureSpa is both practical and affordable, perfect for maintaining smaller spaces like inflatable hot tubs.

How to Choose the Best Hot Tub Vacuum for You

Selecting the right vacuum for your inflatable hot tub isn’t just about picking the most expensive or powerful model. It’s about finding the tool that fits your specific needs. Below are key factors to consider when shopping for a hot tub vacuum, ensuring that you make an informed decision.

1. Power Source

Choosing the right power source depends largely on how often you clean your tub and the type of debris you encounter.

Battery-powered vacuums offer flexibility and portability, making them ideal for small hot tubs or quick clean-ups. However, they may require frequent battery replacements, especially with regular use.
Rechargeable vacuums provide convenience without needing constant battery replacements. They are great for regular use but may require time for recharging between sessions.
Manual vacuums (such as siphon-powered models) require no batteries, making them more environmentally friendly and budget-friendly. However, they can take more effort and time to operate, and they may not be as powerful as their electric counterparts.

2. Corded vs. Cordless

The debate between corded and cordless vacuums boils down to convenience versus power.

Cordless vacuums are highly portable and ideal for smaller spaces like inflatable hot tubs. You won’t have to worry about tangling wires or finding a power source. These are perfect for quick and simple cleaning jobs.
Corded vacuums, on the other hand, offer consistent power and can handle larger debris more effectively. They are well-suited for larger hot tubs or situations where you need a longer cleaning session without the risk of losing battery power.

3. Telescoping Pole

A telescoping or multi-section pole can be a game-changer when it comes to cleaning hard-to-reach areas in your hot tub.

If your tub has deeper sections or difficult corners, a telescoping pole allows you to extend your reach without bending or straining. This feature is particularly useful for those with larger or deeper inflatable hot tubs, making cleaning more efficient and less tiring.

4. Brush Attachments

Not all vacuums come equipped with brush attachments, but they are incredibly useful for a thorough cleaning.

Brush attachments help scrub away debris stuck to the walls and floor of your tub, making it easier to clean off the grime that simple suction can’t remove. If your hot tub tends to accumulate oils or dirt on its surface, having a brush attachment will save you a lot of manual scrubbing time.

5. Sponge Included

Some vacuums come with sponge attachments, which are especially helpful for handling sticky substances or finer debris that brushes might miss.

A sponge attachment can help remove oils, lotions, or other residues from the tub’s surface, particularly around the waterline. If you often notice a film on your tub’s walls, a model with a sponge feature can make a noticeable difference.

6. Nozzle Variety

A vacuum with a range of nozzle attachments allows you to target different types of debris more effectively.

Nozzle variety is important for cleaning tight spaces, like between seats or along the edges of the tub. Larger nozzles are better for sucking up big debris like leaves, while smaller, more precise nozzles work well for corners and fine particles like sand.

7. Filtration System

The filtration system in your vacuum plays a critical role in maintaining the cleanliness of your hot tub.

Look for vacuums with a high-quality filtration system, especially if your tub sees frequent use. A vacuum with a larger filter bag reduces the need for constant emptying, while microfilters are particularly effective at catching finer dirt and debris, ensuring your water remains crystal clear.

8. Warranty

Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of a warranty.

A good warranty provides peace of mind, especially if you’re investing in a higher-end model. While most reputable brands offer at least a one-year warranty, some models provide extended coverage, which is beneficial in case of malfunctions or unexpected defects.

Best Manual Vacuum for Hot Tub Debris

Manual vacuums are typically lightweight, easy to use, and don’t require a power source, making them a great option for inflatable hot tubs.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance way to handle small debris like dirt, sand, and leaves, a manual vacuum might be just what you need.

Here I find best manual vacuum options that work well for inflatable hot tubs:

1. Aura 6250 Paradise Power Spa Vacuum (Siphon-Powered)

The Aura 6250 is a popular choice for those who prefer a siphon-powered vacuum. It’s incredibly easy to use—just submerge the vacuum, create a siphon, and let it pull the debris out of your hot tub.

cleaning with aura 6250 paradise power Spa Vacuum.

No batteries required: It relies entirely on siphon power, meaning you won’t have to worry about running out of juice.
Best for smaller debris: Ideal for cleaning sand, dirt, and other small particles from the bottom of your tub.
Simple setup: With no need for pumps or hookups, this is a go-to for quick clean-ups.

The main drawback is that siphon-powered vacuums take a bit more time and effort compared to electric models. However, for those looking to keep things simple, the Aura 6250 gets the job done without any fuss.

2. PoolSupplyTown Pool Spa Jet Vacuum Cleaner (Hose-Powered)

Another great option is the PoolSupplyTown Spa Jet Vacuum, which attaches to your garden hose. This vacuum uses water pressure to create suction, pulling debris into a small bag attached to the vacuum head.

a set of Pool Spa Jet Vacuum Cleaner with hose power.

Hose-powered: Simply attach it to a garden hose, and the water pressure does the rest.
Great for leaves and larger debris: The vacuum’s suction is strong enough to pick up larger debris like leaves and twigs, making it versatile for different cleaning tasks.
Affordable and easy to use: It’s a budget-friendly solution for anyone looking for a simple yet effective cleaning tool.

While it requires a hose hookup, this model is still an excellent manual vacuum for inflatable hot tub owners who don’t mind using water pressure to get the job done.

3. Intex Spa Wand (Handheld Manual Vacuum)

For those who want the ultimate in simplicity, the Intex Spa Wand offers a completely manual solution. This handheld vacuum is ideal for spot cleaning and picking up small debris.

No power or water source needed: It’s fully manual, making it the easiest option for quick, on-the-go cleaning.
Compact and portable: The small size makes it perfect for grabbing debris from corners or hard-to-reach spots.
Great for quick clean-ups: This vacuum excels at picking up small particles like dirt or sand without the need for any setup.

Alternative Cleaning Methods

Pool Net: Using a pool net to stir and trap particles works effectively.
Piece of Hose: Simple and effective, a piece of hose can be used to manually remove debris.

A man draining the water from an inflatable hot tub using a hose pipe in a home garden area

Using a Shop Vac for Deep Cleaning

How can you use a wet/dry shop vac to clean your inflatable hot tub? After mostly draining the hot tub, use a wet/dry shop vac to remove the remaining water and debris. Look for a shop vac with good reviews and ratings.

What maintenance tips should you follow for vacuuming your hot tub?

Regularly check and clean your vacuum filters.
Ensure the vacuum’s battery is charged or the power cord is in good condition.
Store your vacuum in a dry place to avoid damage.

Comparing Different Hot Tub Vacuum Options

How do different hot tub vacuum options compare?

Intex Handheld Vacuum: Best for reliability and ease of use.
Pool Blaster: Great for versatility and reaching tight spaces.
Shop Vac: Ideal for deep cleaning after draining.
Spa Vacuum: Budget-friendly and hooks up to your garden hose.

Check out the Top 3 Best Spa Vacuum Cleaners for the Perfect Relaxation.

Are there any DIY hacks for cleaning an inflatable hot tub?

Use a piece of hose to create a simple vacuum.
Stir the water with a pool net to gather debris in one area for easy removal.

What do users say about their hot tub vacuum experiences?

Many users have shared positive experiences with the Intex vacuum and Pool Blaster, highlighting their effectiveness and ease of use. The Walmart spa vacuum also receives praise for its affordability and performance. Check out How Do I Inflate My Intex Portable Spa.

Regular Maintenance for a Clean Hot Tub

How can regular maintenance improve the cleanliness of your hot tub?

Regularly vacuuming and removing debris prevents buildup and maintains a hygienic soaking environment. It also extends the lifespan of your hot tub components.

For more information and to explore related products, visit Hot Tub Patio. Find everything you need to keep your inflatable hot tub in perfect condition and make the most of your relaxation time.