Top 10 Hot Tub Chemicals Reviews and Buying Guide – 2020

For a rejuvenating spa experience in your hot tub it’s important to make sure the water isn’t contaminated with dirt or any other debris. Many hot tub owners struggle to get their spa water clear because they’re using the wrong chemicals. With so many chemicals available in the market it can be hard to know the right ones to choose.

To select the right chemicals, it’s important to know the basics about chemical sanitizers. For example, are you looking for an eco-friendly cleaner? If so, you need to know what sanitizers use Chlorine or Bromine, which are minerals used to keep your hot tub water free of microorganisms and other harmful bacteria.

Creating a healthy environment in your hot tub is just as important as achieving clear water. You want to feel confident that your family and friends are soaking in a spa that’s free from harmful substances. The best way to do this is to pick the right chemicals for your hot tub.

Picking the right chemicals also has a lot to do with how well your hot tub performs. You can avoid repairs and other problems when you maintain your water with chemicals designed for your spa.

Researching your options is always the best way to choose the right sanitizer. Let’s take a look at the the best spa chemicals available today. Here are 10 of the best hot tub chemicals that have the power to give you the clean hot tub spa experience you deserve.

A Review of the Top Ten Best Hot Tub Chemicals

1. Leisure Time Spa Sanitizer Spa 56

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ULYNIH2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00ULYNIH2&linkId=e41e8e0e0b848188cddb1fb9b205bb50
Pros
Perfect for all spas, including preheated pools
Works great as a shock treatment
Adequately maintains pH balance
Cons
Not a good choice if you want to use the hot tub or spa after a treatment

This sanitizer is a top pick for many spa owners because of its fast dissolving features, and it’s easy to use. One of the best features of this spa sanitizer is it’s ability to maintain the pH balance and effectively kill bacteria in the water.

Spa owners who want to give their spa a shock treatment, also referred to as a super chlorine treatment, don’t have to use a lot of this sanitizer. All that is needed is 1 oz of chemical for every 500 gallons of water. However, it’s advisable that spa owners avoid using the spa 10-15 days after a shock treatment so they’re not exposed to any hazardous effects.

2. Clorox Pool&Spa 23006CLXCA Xtra Blue

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PZZFHQ2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00PZZFHQ2&linkId=0bd52a429acc716492bca7aef02ef948

Pros
Works with salt and chlorine hot tubs and pools
Can be used as an algaecide, shock treatment, or sanitizer
Minimizes skin irritation
Doesn’t have the typical chlorine odor smell
The multi-use properties justify its higher price tag
Cons
Not made for covered hot tubs
White flakey residue is a concern

This sanitizer offers superior protection against algae and bacteria. It does an amazing job of keeping spa water clean and only needs a pound of chemical to treat up to 53000 gallons of pool water. Above-ground pool owners find that this product takes care of the toughest algae problems fast.

Although the product is pricey, it’s a cost-effective solution because of it’s multi-purpose composition. If you have a covered hot tub, this produce probably isn’t for you because it tends to be messy.

3. SpaChoice 472-3-5081 Chlorine Granules

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AYJ0XK4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00AYJ0XK4&linkId=387afae4a7973f28419d882605be2864

Pros
Most effective at killing bacteria and preventing algae
Easy-to-use with detailed instructions included
Protects against UV rays and extends chlorine life
Dissolves quickly
Provides users with great value for their money
Cons
Contain isn’t easy to open

Spa owner who want to ensure they have a steady source of chlorine will be happy with this product. The chlorine granules dissolve fast and work immediately. It only takes a teaspoon of product to kill organic contaminants and bacteria in a 500-gallon hot tub.

For consumers looking for a product that has various features and a decent price tag, this is a good deal.

4. Kem-Tek 177 1-Inch Chlorinating Tablets for Pool and Spa

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0030BEI4A/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0030BEI4A&linkId=54ef211ec446c094eea078fb8906b5ac

Pros
Resists chlorine burn-down
Doesn’t crumble easily
Provides long-lasting cleaning
A simple and easy way to chlorinate your spas and pools

Cons
Some users complain of excessive foaming
Tablets can cause skin irritation if not handled with gloves

A positive aspect of this sanitizer is the 24-hour customer support. It’s also a great product for preventing algae growth and contamination in the spa. The product is also available in 4-pound, 15-pound, and 24-pound variants.

5.Leisure Time Spa Disinfectant Brom Tabs

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000O5Y4B2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000O5Y4B2&linkId=f16626e8c56dc07edac3aa987ad2381b

Pros
A great choice for bromine sanitizing systems
Offer competitive pricing
Installs easily and allows for easy maintenance of your spa
Has low dust formulations

Cons
Not as effective as other sanitizer in the same price range

Spa owners enjoy that this sanitizer keeps their spa bacteria free for up to 4 months. It’s also a sanitizer that’s compatible with numerous spas and an eco-friendly option.

However, when it comes to performance, it performs lower than other cleaners in this same category.

6. Spa Essentials 32305000 Brominating Tablets

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010E2IHDA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B010E2IHDA&linkId=787da099596dfd82ec90cf489a215ad3

Pros
No chlorine odor
Lesser pH sensitivity
Easy to use in a tablet floater or brominator
Cons
Packaging isn’t reliable or sturdy

For spa owners who want to use tablets to clean their spas, this product is ideal. It deliver long-lasting protection and is perfect for people who are sensitive to chlorine cleaners. It’s best to use a floating feeder with the compressed 1” bromine tablets.

The cleaner is 100% safe to use and won’t cause discoloration or skin irritation. It’s an effective solution for long-term usage.

7. Bromine Tablets for Hot Tubs by Spa Depot

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NCQO3KY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01NCQO3KY&linkId=4e26f37d405394b0ae0737f9b49f5f11

Pros
Has an active ingredients percentage of 98%
Doesn’t have a strong odor
One of the most effective sanitizers in its range
Cons
Takes too long to dissolve

A moderately-priced chemical, this sanitizer comes in a child-safe, sturdy container with a lid. Although it’s in a large container, it stays fresh for a long time giving you more bang for your buck. Because the tablets dissolve slowly, this sanitizer works best in warm waters.

Users like the cost factor and that it treat bacteria and algae equally well. For inflatable hot tub owners, this product works great.

8. Leisure Time Spa Shock Renew Non-Chlorine Shock

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000LS2HEI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000LS2HEI&linkId=4c00e1997d065b728a628ebe0aebaf24

Pros
A non-chlorine oxidizer that works with all purification systems
A universal cleaner that works well with many spas
Comes in bulk packaging with an attractive price tag
Effective at killing microorganisms and gets rid of soaps, oil, and deodorants
Eliminates chlorine odors
Cleans spa water quickly

Cons
Creates quite a bit of foam

This product has a reputation for producing outstanding products for hot tub and spa water care. It works with all purification systems including bromine and chlorine. It’s easy to use and comes in bulk packaging for cost-effectiveness.

9. SpaGuard Enhanced Spa Shock 6

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1754164498/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1754164498&linkId=f7f627ee7909af17471b6d90afa59047

Great for an instant, powerful shock treatment
Thoroughly removes contaminants from spa water
Compatible with many systems including ionization, chlorine and bromine systems
Manages the pH level of your water effectively
Clean your water in as little as 15 minutes

Cons
Doesn’t clean water well that’s very greasy

Spa owners who want to save a few dollars will like this product. Although it’s cheaper, it’s a decent shock treatment product that will keep your water clear and safe. Expect to use 3 tablespoons of this spa shock for every 50 gallons of water.

10. Oxy-Spa- Non-Chlorine Hot Tub & Pool MPS

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBT6563/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=instylehottub-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07BBT6563&linkId=2cd03ed34871e8ce1ca260f77b5cab75

Pros
Comes in 2 bottles
Convenient packing and granule form
Delivers exception cleaning
Cons
Low chemical content just 70%

An effective shock treatment that has the highest Active Oxygen – Monpersulfate Oxidizing Shock. Its 2-bottle packaging makes the chemical easy to apply and it’s granule form has a long-lasting effect. Even with its 70% chemical makeup, it’s still a worthy cleaner in its range.

Tips to Balance the Sanitization Levels of Your Hot Tub

Balancing your hot tub’s sanitization levels doesn’t have to be hard. With the right approach and information, you can achieve optimal hot tub water levels. Here are some tips for maintaining balance and clear water:
Measure sanitizer levels from the strip to make sure you’re getting measurements for pH levels and alkalinity.
Granules form is recommended for chlorine or bromine systems.

For the quantity of chemicals required for your hot tube, always follow the recommendations in the user manual.
Choose a sanitizer that’s easy to maintain based on your skill and preference.
Seek professional assistance when you’re having performance or sanitization issues.

Pay close attention to anyone who may have a negative reaction.
Don’t continue to use chemicals that cause you or anyone else the spa to react negatively.
Stay on top of changes in water appearance.

If the water’s appearance looks cloudy or contaminated, you might need to switch cleaners.
Always follow the instruction on the chemicals you use exactly to ensure cleanliness and to keep the water from becoming saturated with chemicals.

Don’t allow eating or drinking in the hot tub to make sure the water stays cleaner for longer.
Be careful about chemicals you put on your skin like sunscreen or body oil because these products can have a negative effect on the chemical balance of the water.

Conclusion

To get outstanding sanitization, it’s always a good idea to combine mineral and chemical sanitizers. Spa owners should also purchase their products from companies in the industry who have a reputation for producing quality products that meet their customers’ expectations. Comparing prices is always a good idea, but don’t let that be the only factor that influences your decision.

In addition to comparing prices, you also want to research the pros and cons of the products you’re interested in using. The best sanitizers fit your budget, maintenance schedule, and are easy to use.
There’s not a one-size-fits all solutions for all hot tubs.