Ever wondered how long does it take for cloudy hot tub water to clear up? If you’ve been struggling with a less-than-sparkling spa.
Don’t worry, we can help you figure out how to get your hot tub water clear and sparkly in no time.
So, How Long Does It Take To Clear Up Cloudy Hot Tub Water?
It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to clear up cloudy water in a hot tub.
If the issue is minor and caught early, it may only take a few hours to resolve by adjusting the water chemistry and filtration.
But, if the issue is more severe and requires draining and refilling the hot tub, it may take a few days to complete the process and ensure the water is clean and clear.

Causes of Cloudy Hot Tub Water
Below are some possible causes for cloudy water in your hot tub:
1. Chemical Imbalance

One common cause of cloudy hot tub water is unbalanced water chemistry. Imbalanced levels of pH, alkalinity, or sanitizer can lead to cloudy water in a hot tub.
To fix cloudy spa water, make sure to maintain the water balance by checking the sanitizer level and chlorine level.
2. Contamination
Contaminants such as dirt, oils, lotions, and bodily fluids can build up in a hot tub and cause cloudy water.
Adding hot tub chemicals like non chlorine shock can help clear up cloudy hot tub water faster. Running the filter will help remove impurities in the water.
3. Poor Filtration

A dirty or clogged hot tub filter can prevent the hot tub from properly filtering out impurities, leading to cloudy water.
4. Organic Matter
Leaves, insects, algae, and other organic matter can accumulate in a hot tub and cause cloudy water. Use a filter cleaner and don’t forget to drain your hot tub regularly to prevent cloudy water.
5. High TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)

High levels of total dissolved solids can lead to cloudy water in a hot tub. Draining and refilling the hot tub periodically can help reduce TDS levels and maintain clear water.
6. Algae
Algae are tiny water-loving plants that can quickly take over your hot tub if not regularly cleaned, turning the water green or yellow.
7. Busy Hot Tub Gatherings

A crowded hot tub party can quickly turn the water murky with sweat, skin cells, and natural body oils. To combat this, it’s important to sanitize your hot tub water regularly and change the water every few months.
8. Stuff in the Air
Particles in the air can accumulate in your hot tub, making the tub water cloudy. If the water is cloudy, it may be due to a lack of hot tub care such as regularly changing the water or using a hot tub cleaner.

9. Lotions and Potions
Before entering the hot tub, be mindful that lotions, sunscreens, and hair products can leave a cloudy residue in the water, similar to oil and water not blending well.
10. Water Hardness

Water hardness is a common cause of your cloudy spa water. When calcium hardness in the water passes a certain level, it can lead to cloudy hot tub water.
It’s important to take steps to maintain the total alkalinity and hard water levels in your pool and hot tub.
How to Make Cloudy Water Sparkle Again?
Here’s how you can clear your hot tub cloudy water:
Test Your Water

Get water testing strips to determine pH and chlorine levels in your water. Dip a strip in the water, wait, and compare color to the chart for results.
Regularly testing your hot tub water with test strips is essential for proper water care. Keeping your hot tub water clean will ensure a healthy environment for you to soak in.
Chlorine Shock Your Hot Tub
Using a non-chlorine shock treatment can help to keep your hot tub water fresh and clear. This will help to rinse particles in the water and achieve crystal clear water clarity.
Adding a bit of clarifier can also help to clump particles in the water into larger particles that are easier for the filter to remove.
Filter Bath
Clean your filters regularly to keep your water clean and clear. Just like a vacuum filter, they can get clogged with dirt and need a wash or special cleaner from the store.
Water Clarifiers
If your water is still cloudy, try using a water clarifier. It helps particles clump together so your filter can catch them easily. Just follow the instructions on the bottle and let the magic work.
Starting Fresh
Sometimes a fresh start is needed. If your water is still cloudy despite all efforts, it’s time to replace it. Drain, clean, and refill for a clear-water fun.
Stop Cloudiness Before It Starts
To keep your hot tub water clear, practice regular maintenance like brushing your teeth to prevent cavities. Follow these tips for a hassle-free soak.
Start with Fresh Water

Replacing your hot tub’s water with fresh, clean water often enough will prevent cloudy water and ensure a relaxing experience.
Fill your hot tub with fresh water and use a pre-filter if necessary. Regularly change the water in your hot tub to keep the water clean and prevent cloudy water.
Wash Filters Regularly
Regularly clean your hot tub filters, just like you would care for your favorite pair of jeans.
Remember to do a water change periodically by adding fresh water to your hot tub to help keep your water crystal clear.

Balance is Key
Maintaining a balanced mix of chemicals is essential for keeping your hot tub clear and safe. Regular water testing is key to ensuring pH and alkalinity levels are in check.
Without proper chemical balance, your hot tub water can become cloudy and unsafe for hot tub use.
Stick to a Schedule
Maintain consistency in your hot tub maintenance by sticking to a regular cleaning schedule.
This includes wiping down the sides, checking water levels, and keeping filters clean to prevent cloudy spa water.
Keep it Covered

Make sure to know about hot tub maintenance to prevent issues that can damage your hot tub equipment. Always use your hot tub cover when not in use to keep debris out of the water and maintain heat.
Wrapping Up
The time it takes for cloudy hot tub water to clear up depends on various factors such as the extent of contamination and the effectiveness of the water chemicals used.
By regularly testing and adjusting the chemicals levels, as well as regularly cleaning and maintaining the hot tub, cloudy water can be cleared up within a few days.