Your hot tub cover is more than just an accessory, and it does more than keep leaves and wildlife out of your backyard spa—the cover's a main component in keeping your hot tub safe, energy-efficient, and clean. That said, many hot tub owners overlook the importance of proper cover care. This can lead to unnecessary wear and tear, and ultimately, energy inefficiency. By following a few simple maintenance steps, you can extend the life of your hot tub cover, save money, and make sure your spa remains a fun place to hang.
Why Regular Care Matters
A sturdy, well-fitting spa cover is an important hot tub accessory. "Hot tub covers help maintain water temperature by trapping heat, which reduces energy costs," shared Merrick Miller, Hot Tub Education & Content Lead for Leslie’s. "They also block dirt and debris from getting into the water, saving you time on maintenance and reducing strain on the filtration system. And most importantly, hot tub covers provide a layer of safety by keeping kids, animals, and even adults from entering the warm water when they’re not supposed to."
Weekly Care
Caring for your hot tub cover is simple and should be part of a regular cleaning routine. "At least once or twice a week, let your hot tub cover air out for a couple of hours to help prevent mildew and mold growth underneath the cover," highlights Miller.
She also notes that committing to a regular cover cleaning process helps. "To clean the outside, use mild soap or a special vinyl cleaner, and a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush to scrub the cover gently. You can also clean the underside of the cover as needed, wiping the cleaner and water solution in circular motions. Wipe it down with a mild soap, rinse it off, and allow it to air dry to reduce the presence of hot tub cover mildew." While a 1:1 bleach and water mixture can help kill hot tub cover mildew, you should generally avoid harsh chemicals.
You can also add a vinyl protectant to keep the cover supple, but consider this a quarterly chore.
Inspect Your Hot Tub Cover for Damage
"Finally, keep an eye for signs of wear or damage," recommends Miller. "When in doubt, replace it if necessary to keep your hot tub protected and energy-efficient."
Signs of damage include:
- Broken straps or cover clips
- Sagging foam (this can signal a waterlogged cover)
- Cracks in material
- Rips in liner
Additional Tips for Longevity
Adding a few extra steps to your maintenance routine can extend a cover's life and reduce the need for expensive hot tub maintenance.
- For instance, avoid placing heavy items on top of the cover. It can cause sagging or damage to the foam core.
- If your hot tub is located in a sunny spot, consider using a UV protectant to shield it from sun damage and keep the cover nice.
- During colder months, brush off accumulated snow and ice to prevent the cover from becoming weighed down.
- When not in use, make sure the cover is properly secured with straps and/or cover locks to prevent wind damage. This is often mandated by the cover warranty.
- Storing the cover upright in a dry, shaded area when the hot tub is drained can also help preserve its condition and keep the cover supple.
