The Essential Guide to Spa Chemicals: What You Need & Why It Matters

Owning a hot tub or spa is one of life’s great luxuries—but with great bubbles comes great responsibility! Whether you're soaking to relax, ease sore muscles, or enjoy a little slice of serenity at home, spa chemicals are what keep your water clean, safe, and crystal clear.

In this guide, we break down the must-know facts about spa chemicals—what they do, why they matter, and how to use them properly.

Why Are Spa Chemicals Important?

Unlike pools, hot tubs have smaller water volumes and higher temperatures. This makes them the perfect breeding ground for bacteria if not maintained correctly.

Spa chemicals help:

• Kill harmful bacteria and viruses

• Balance water pH to prevent skin and eye irritation

• Protect your spa equipment from corrosion and scale buildup

• Keep water clear, clean, and inviting

The Core Spa Chemicals You Need - Here’s a quick overview of the essentials:

1. Sanitiser (Chlorine or Bromine)

These are your front-line defenders, killing bacteria and keeping your water safe.

• Chlorine works fast and is widely available.

• Bromine is gentler on skin and works better at higher temperatures.

2. pH Balancers

Your water’s pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8. If it's too high or low, it can cause skin irritation and damage your spa.

• Use pH Increaser or pH Reducer to keep things balanced.

3. Alkalinity Adjuster

This stabilizes your pH and prevents wild fluctuations. Keep total alkalinity between 80–120 ppm.

4. Shock Treatments

A weekly shock treatment breaks down organic contaminants like sweat, oils, and lotions.

• Use non-chlorine shock for a quick, odourless refresh.

• Use chlorine shock for a deeper clean when needed.

5. Water Clarifiers & Foam Reducers

Clarifiers bind tiny particles into larger ones so your filter can remove them. Foam reducers help eliminate that bubbly film caused by oils and detergents.

Simple Spa Care Routine

Frequency	Task
Daily / 2–3 days	Test pH and sanitizer using Insta4 strips (included in kits; see kits above)
Weekly	Apply Non‑Chlorine Shock; add Spa Clarifier or No Foam as needed
Monthly	Clean filters and vinyl; run Spa Flush (found in XL Starter Kit)
Every 3–4 months	Drain, refill, and restart maintenance with a kit

Bonus Tip: Choose Spa-Safe Fragrances

Want to add scent to your soak? Make sure you’re using spa-safe aromatherapy crystals or liquids. Regular bath products can mess with your water chemistry and even damage your spa.

The Bottom Line

Taking care of your spa doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right spa chemicals and a simple routine, your hot tub will stay clean, safe, and ready whenever you need to unwind.

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