What causes foamy water, and how do I fix it?

What Causes Foamy Hot Tub Water — and How to Fix It

Foamy water in your hot tub might look like fun at first, but it’s actually a sign that something isn’t right. Foam forms when surfactants (like oils, lotions, sweat, or leftover soaps) build up in the water and get agitated by the jets. Luckily, it’s easy to fix — and even easier to prevent once you know the causes.

Common Causes of Foam in Your Hot Tub

1. Body lotions, oils, and cosmetics - Anything on your skin — from moisturizers to fake tan — can mix with your water and cause foam.

2. Detergent residue on swimwear - Washing your swimwear in regular laundry detergent leaves residues that create suds when the jets are on.

3. Low calcium hardness - Soft water can lead to foaming. Your hot tub needs the right calcium balance to stabilize the water.

4. Contaminated or overloaded water - Over time, organic contaminants build up and increase surface tension, encouraging foam.

5. Old or ineffective water - If your water hasn't been changed in a while, it could be “tired” and more prone to foaming.

   
   

How to Get Rid of Foam

✅ 1. Test and rebalance your water - Use your LaMotte test strips and match the results with your Spa Fuel color-coded packaging. Ensure your:

• Sanitiser (chlorine or bromine) is at the correct level

• pH is between 7.2 and 7.6

• Calcium hardness is in the right range (Spa Fuel Essentials range includes a calcium balancer if needed)

✅ 2. Add a Spa Fuel No foam, Our fast-acting formula breaks down surface tension and clears foam on contact — great for quick results.

✅ 3. Deep clean with Spa Flush and water change (if needed)If foaming persists, your water may be too saturated. Use Spa Fuel Flush, drain, clean the surfaces and filters, then refill and rebalance.

✅ 4. Rinse swimwear in plain water only. Avoid detergents — a simple rinse is enough. Dedicated spa users often have “hot tub only” swimsuits.

✅ 5. Shower before using the hot tub -

it sounds simple, but this is one of the best ways to prevent foam-causing oils and products from entering the water.

Final Tip: Prevention Is Easier Than Cure

Foam usually means there’s too much going into your water and not enough being taken out. Stick to a regular maintenance routine with Spa Fuel products, and keep your spa water crystal clear, soft, and foam-free.

No Foam (1Ltr)

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