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.
- 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.
- 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
Picking the right vacuum for your inflatable hot tub isn’t just about power or price—it’s about what fits your setup best. Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your choice:
1. ⚡ Power Source
- Battery-powered: Great for quick clean-ups, but may need frequent battery changes.
- Rechargeable: Convenient and eco-friendly, but needs downtime to charge.
- Manual: Budget-friendly and battery-free, but more effort to use.
2. 🔌 Corded vs. Cordless
- Cordless: Lightweight, portable, and easy to maneuver—perfect for small tubs.
- Corded: Delivers steady power for bigger cleanups, no charging required.
3. 🦯 Telescoping Pole
Reaching tough corners? A telescoping pole makes cleaning easier without bending or stretching too much.
4. 🧽 Brush Attachments
Scrub off grime and buildup with brush heads. They’re a lifesaver for tackling dirt that suction alone won’t handle.
5. 🫧 Sponge Included
For greasy residues or waterline buildup, a sponge head can wipe away the mess more effectively than a brush.
6. 🔍 Nozzle Variety
Multiple nozzles = more control. Use wide ones for leaves, narrow ones for corners and tight spaces.
7. 🧃 Filtration System
A good filter keeps your water cleaner longer. Look for microfilters and large-capacity bags to trap fine particles.
8. 🛡️ Warranty
A decent warranty (at least 1 year) means protection from defects. Worth checking before buying.
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:
KOKIDO XTROVAC 110 Rechargeable Pool Vacuum – Review & Pros/Cons
Product Highlights
- Cordless & Powerful: 60-minute runtime with 9.4 GPM suction. IPX8 waterproof.
- Lightweight: Under 3 lbs; includes a 72-inch aluminum pole.
- Versatile: Cleans pools (up to 20ft), spas, and hot tubs.
- Dual Brush Heads: Reaches tight corners and narrow spaces.
- Amazon’s Choice: 1,500+ ratings, 4.1/5 stars.
Pros & Cons (Based on Customer Reviews)
✅ Pros:
- Strong suction for leaves, sand, and debris.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver (great for spot cleaning).
- Quiet operation (60dB).
- Long battery life (60 mins per charge).
- Affordable compared to competitors.
❌ Cons:
- Small debris basket requires frequent emptying.
- May clog with larger leaves (needs occasional clearing).
- Pole length may be short for deep pools (some users bought extensions).
Who Should Buy This?
Ideal for:
- Above-ground pool owners needing quick spot cleaning.
- Hot tub/spa users targeting small debris.
- Those seeking a budget-friendly alternative to robotic cleaners.
Not ideal for: Large pools with heavy debris (consider robotic cleaners instead).
Final Verdict
The KOKIDO XTROVAC 110 is a great handheld vacuum for small pools and spas, offering strong suction and portability. While it has minor limitations (e.g., small basket), its price-to-performance ratio makes it a top pick.
Buy on AmazonPool Spa Jet Vacuum Cleaner – Review & Pros/Cons
Product Highlights
- Hose-Powered: Uses garden hose water pressure (no electricity) via Venturi effect.
- Dual Function: Vacuums debris and brushes pool surfaces simultaneously.
- Portable: Ideal for above-ground/inflatable pools, spas, and hot tubs.
- Budget-Friendly: Amazon’s Choice at just $15.50 (with 2,258+ ratings).
- Note: Requires a 1-1/4″ telescopic pole (sold separately).
Pros & Cons (Based on Customer Reviews)
✅ Pros:
- Affordable yet effective for small pools.
- Strong suction with garden hose pressure.
- Easy assembly (no tools required).
- Lightweight and portable.
- Versatile for pools, spas, and hot tubs.
❌ Cons:
- Small debris bag needs frequent emptying.
- Pole not included (must purchase separately).
- May lose suction if bag overfills or detaches.
- Adds water to pool during use.
User Tips for Better Performance
- Use a skimmer sock (or pantyhose) inside the mesh bag to catch finer debris.
- Add a shut-off valve between the hose and vacuum for easier control.
- Let debris dry before emptying the bag to avoid spills.
Final Verdict
This hose-powered vacuum is a steal for small pools and spas, offering surprising suction power at a fraction of the cost of electric models. While it requires a pole and has minor limitations, its affordability and simplicity make it a crowd favorite.
Buy on AmazonIntex Rechargeable Handheld Pool Vacuum – Review & Pros/Cons
Product Highlights
- Powerful Suction: Designed for above-ground pools and spas up to 18ft.
- Rechargeable: Nickel-metal hydride battery with USB charging (cable included).
- Complete Kit: Includes 94″ telescoping aluminum pole, 2 brush heads, and shaft adapter.
- Smart Features: Auto shutoff when not submerged; IPX8 waterproof switch.
- Lightweight: Only 6.74 lbs for easy handling.
- Amazon’s Choice: 14,000+ ratings, 4.0/5 stars.
Pros & Cons (Based on 14,047 Reviews)
✅ Pros:
- Excellent for spot-cleaning fine debris and algae.
- No hoses/pumps needed – fully cordless operation.
- Easy to assemble and use (plug-and-play design).
- Good battery life for single cleaning sessions.
- Affordable compared to robotic cleaners.
❌ Cons:
- Small filter capacity clogs quickly with heavy debris.
- Durability issues – may fail after 1-2 seasons (per some reviews).
- Slow movement required to avoid disturbing debris.
- No wall plug included (USB charging only).
Pro Tips from Buyers
- Clean filters after every use to maintain suction power.
- Use the crevice attachment for pool edges and spa mats.
- Store indoors during off-seasons to prolong battery life.
- Pair with an automatic pool cleaner for comprehensive cleaning.
Final Verdict
The Intex Handheld Vacuum is a budget-friendly solution for small to medium pools, offering hassle-free spot cleaning. While it has limitations (filter size, durability), its ease of use and portability make it ideal for Intex pool owners or those needing a secondary cleaner.
Buy on AmazonPrice: $69.95 | Prime Shipping Available
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.
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 Hot Tub Vacuum Options: Which One is Right for You?
| Feature |
KOKIDO XTROVAC 110
|
Pool Supply Town Jet Vacuum
|
Intex Rechargeable Vacuum
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $69.99 | $15.50 | $69.95 |
| Power Source | Rechargeable battery | Garden hose | Rechargeable battery |
| Best For | Spot cleaning in pools/spas | Budget-friendly quick cleaning | Intex pool owners |
| Suction Power | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9.4 GPM) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Varies by hose pressure) | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Runtime | 60 minutes | Unlimited (with water flow) | ~30-45 minutes |
| Weight | Under 3 lbs | 2.2 lbs | 6.74 lbs |
| Pole Included | Yes (72″) | No | Yes (94″) |
| Filter Capacity | Small (needs frequent emptying) | Very small (best for fine debris) | Small (microfilter optional) |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ (reports of 1-2 season lifespan) |
Which One Should You Choose?
🏆 Best Overall: KOKIDO XTROVAC 110
Ideal for most hot tub owners who want a balance of power and portability. Its lightweight design and strong suction make it perfect for weekly maintenance.
View on Amazon💰 Best Budget: Pool Supply Town Jet Vacuum
Great for occasional users or those who don’t want to worry about batteries. Just attach to a garden hose and go – but requires a separate pole.
View on Amazon🔋 Best for Intex Pools: Intex Rechargeable
Designed to complement Intex pools with its telescoping pole. Good for spot-cleaning but may need replacement after a few seasons.
View on AmazonHot Tub Vacuum Maintenance Tips
- Clean filters after each use to maintain suction power
- Store indoors during winter to prevent damage
- For battery models: Charge fully before storing long-term
- Hose-powered vacuums: Use a shut-off valve for better control
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.
