How to Disinfect a Jacuzzi Bathtub
When moving into a new home, you may be instinctively wary about using the Jacuzzi bathtub that the previous tenants luxuriated in, even if it looks perfectly clean. And, according to Rita Moyes, Ph.D., with the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University, you're instincts are right. In a study on whirlpool water quality, the pipes of 43 Jacuzzi baths were tested and found to harbor bacteria and fungi in the stagnant water that remained in their pipes. To be sure that your next Jacuzzi bath is free of unwanted guests, give it a thorough cleaning before using it. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Fill your Jacuzzi bathtub over the jets with hot water, as hot water enhances disinfection, to the lowest level that the tub will recirculate.
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Add 1 cup of white vinegar. Turn the Jacuzzi jets on as high as they will go and allow them to run for five minutes, then turn off the jets and allow the vinegar solution to soak and disinfect the interior of the pipes and the tub for 20 minutes.
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Run the Jacuzzi jets on their highest setting for 10 minutes, then turn off the jets and drain the water from the bathtub.
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Refill the Jacuzzi with cold water. Turn the Jacuzzi jets on high for 5 minutes to rinse the pipes of any residual vinegar solution, then drain the bathtub.
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Wipe the inner surfaces of the tub and the exterior with a clean cloth and diluted white vinegar.
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Spray the tub with clear water, and allow it to air dry or refill it with clean water for the next use.
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Tips & Warnings
A Jacuzzi bathtub and its plumbing provide a moist environment, a possible organic food supply and a favorable temperature, conditions that may cause microbial growth overnight. Disinfection after each time the bathtub is used will reduce the potential for microbial contamination.
