The Ultimate Guide to Different Hot Tub Sanitizers

If you own a hot tub, especially outdoor hot tubs, you know that keeping the water clean and safe is essential for a relaxing experience.

We started out as hot tub owners and sellers before launching O-Care. So we understand the complexities of the various chemicals out there. There are many different hot tub sanitizers available on the market, but which one is the best hot tub sanitizer for you?

Chlorine and bromine sanitizers are popular for both hot tubs and swimming pools but have drawbacks. That's what makes O-care spa care different, by neutralizing the downsides of these chemicals. It's a simple, soft, and safe way to maintain your hot tub water, reducing all the harsh chemicals.

But first, let's discuss your different sanitizer options for your hot tub and what they can mean for your hot tub.

What Is Hot Tub Sanitizer?

Hot tub sanitizers are an essential part of hot tub water maintenance and a pleasant hot tub experience. People prefer different sanitizers based on personal preferences and limited choices. But the most critical factor in choosing a hot tub sanitizer is its ability to disinfect hot tub water and make it safe. 

Everyone wants to experience relaxation in their hot tub. That comes with water that is transparent and undoubtedly safe. And yet, we want the water maintenance process to be easy.

That's why O-Care helps hot tub owners create a simple water maintenance schedule that makes your water soft and safe.

Choosing an effective sanitizer is essential for keeping your hot tub water clean and safe. Sanitizers come in various forms, including tablet form, which can be convenient for consistent dosing.

What Are The Different Sanitizers Used for Hot Tubs?

Hot tub sanitizers are chemicals used to clean and disinfect hot tubs. The most typical sanitizers for hot tubs are:

  1. Chlorine
  2. Bromine
  3. Biguanide
  4. Non-chlorine shock

1. Chlorine: The Classic Choice for Hot Tub Sanitation

Chlorine is the most popular sanitizer for its effectiveness against bacteria and viruses. It can be harsh, with potential health risks if misused, and it often leaves a strong smell and taste.

Maintaining the correct chlorine levels can also be challenging, but using stabilized chlorine can help manage these levels more effectively.

Chlorine levels can be affected by the sun's UV rays, making it harder to maintain the correct balance in outdoor hot tubs.

The Main Features of Chlorine Based Sanitizer:

  • Relatively low protection against protozoa
  • Lower disinfection effectiveness in turbid waters
  • Potential taste and odor objections. You can smell chlorine which, although unpleasant, is a good indicator of overdosing 
  • Must ensure quality control of the solution
  • Potential long-term effects of chlorination by-products
  • Both sanitizing and oxidizing
  • Works best within the pH range of 6.5 - 7.5 
  • Three different types are available, including granular chlorine. If you use chlorine, you need to know the different kinds.

Read more: Best Hot Tub Chlorine: Top 10 Options

2. Bromine Sanitizer: The Newest Innovation in Hot Tub Care

Bromine, often available in bromine tablets, effectively kills bacteria and viruses, with less skin irritation and a milder smell than chlorine. Despite these advantages, bromine is less effective against protozoa, can be expensive, and maintaining proper bromine levels can be challenging.

The Main Features of Bromine:

  • Both sanitizing and oxidizing
  • Works in a wide range of pH 
  • Slow reacting time
  • Distinctive smell but less intrusive 
  • Not permitted in all countries worldwide

Maintaining proper bromine levels can be challenging, but using a floating bromine feeder can help.

Read more: Bromine vs. Chlorine for Hot Tubs: Discover The Best Choice

3. Biguanide: The Newest Innovation in Hot Tub Care

Biguanide is a gentler, newer sanitizer effective against bacteria and viruses, without the harsh smell or taste of chlorine. This type of spa sanitizer is less effective against protozoa, maintaining proper levels can be difficult, and it is more expensive.

Main Features of Biguanide

  • Sanitizer no oxidizer
  • Less smell
  • Less effective than chlorine
  • Easier on skin
  • Higher in price 

4. Non-Chlorine Shock: The Quick Fix for Crystal Clear Water

Non-chlorine shock is used to shock the hot tub water to kill bacteria and viruses. It is a less harsh alternative to chlorine and doesn't have the harsh smell or taste that chlorine can leave behind.

Keep in mind that non-chlorine shock does have some drawbacks. It isn't as effective as chlorine against protozoa. Keeping the right level of non-chlorine shock in the water can be difficult. Using non-chlorine shock in your hot tub can also be expensive.

Main Features of Non-Chlorine Shock

  • Oxidizer, not a sanitizer
  • Require secondary sanitizer to maintain water clarity
  • Hard to measure with only test strips
  • Great to help chlorine do a better job
  • Works in a wide range of pH
  • Decreases TA level 

Tricks to get your Hot Tub Water Sparkling Clean

Pro tip: If you need to shock the water (quick sanitizer boost), use non-chlorine shock, a.k.a. MPS (Monopersulfate).

MPS will oxidize organics and assist the chlorine in doing a better job. You can best add some after using the hot tub, or if you haven't used the hot tub, just add some once a week.

You can add about 30-60 grams or 1-2 ounces on these occasions.

Read more: Non-Chlorine Shock Hot Tub Treatment: Your Guide to Gentle Water Care

Alternative Sanitizers for Hot Tubs

If you dislike the chemicals inside your hot tubs, it doesn't matter. Alternative sanitizations have been popular for the past couple of years.

Several other sanitizing solutions for hot tubs are safer than chlorine. Here are a few additional options:

  1. Saltwater Systems: These systems use salt to generate chlorine naturally, providing a gentler and more consistent sanitizing method. They are less harsh on the skin and require less maintenance than traditional chlorine.
    Read more: Hot Tub Salt Water Conversion Kit: Transform Your Spa Experience
  2. Mineral Sanitizers: Using minerals like silver and copper ions, these systems reduce the need for high chemical levels. They are effective at killing bacteria and algae and are gentle on the skin and eyes.
  3. UV and Ozone Systems: These advanced systems use ultraviolet light or ozone to sanitize the water. They effectively kill bacteria and viruses and can significantly reduce the need for chemical sanitizers. UV and ozone systems are eco-friendly options that provide crystal-clear water.
  4. Enzyme-Based Cleaners: These natural cleaners use enzymes to break down organic matter, reducing the load on traditional sanitizers. They help maintain clean and clear water with fewer chemicals, making them a great option for those with sensitive skin.

O-Care Spa Care is the Best Compliment for Your Hot Tub Sanitizers

O-Care Spa Care is the best compliment for your spa sanitizers. Hot tubs are a great way to relax after a long day or entertain guests, but they require upkeep to maintain cleanliness.

Chemical sanitizers are one way to keep hot tubs clean, but they can be harsh on both skin and the environment.

O-Care offers a safe and gentle alternative that is also effective in preventing and removing sediment.

We have formulated O-Care with natural ingredients and it has a pH neutral, making it easy to balance water chemistry. It is also soft on the skin and leaves no chemical smells behind. For the best results, use O-Care and other hot tub chemicals.

O-Care's Benefits:

  • Safe: The environment is something we should care deeply about. We all know that chemicals can irritate eyes, ears, and skin, so O-Care was made exceptionally safe for children who love going underwater!
  • Soft: You can feel comfy and confident knowing that your skin will be soft, moisturized, and smell nice (maybe even like a flower) without any trace of oil or fragrance, even if you have sensitive skin. The best part? No need for an after-shower routine!
  • Simple: Add the 2 compounds to your spa water once a week using this measuring cup included. The box will last 3-5 months!

At O-Care, we care about providing the best Hot Tub experience regardless of the system you use. Of course, we highly recommend enhancing your water quality and decreasing your hot tub maintenance costs by utilizing O-Care. Find your local dealer who can deliver O-Care to your doorstep.

Wrapping Up

Maintaining a hot tub can indeed be daunting, but ensuring it remains clean and safe is essential for a relaxing experience. With various sanitizers available on the market, choosing the right one depends on your individual needs and preferences.

In this article, we explored the different types of hot tub sanitizers, including chlorine, bromine, biguanide, and non-chlorine shock, each offering unique benefits and challenges. We also shared tips and tricks to help you keep your hot tub water sparkling clean.

We hope you found this article helpful in navigating the complexities of hot tub maintenance. For further assistance or to share your own tips on keeping spa water pristine, please contact us. Enjoy a safe and relaxing soak in your perfectly maintained hot tub!

Additional Resources to Keep Your Hot Tub Clean

  1. Download the O-Care app for weekly maintenance and step-by-step problem-solving.
  2. Use our online water assistant to diagnose your water quality issues.
  3. This article covers more situations if the app didn't help solve your problem.
  4. I need to solve an underlying contamination issue in my hot tub; maybe it's biofilm?
  5. How to avoid future problems and keep your hot tub clean?
  6. What kind of sanitizers can I choose from?
  7. What is the best way to maintain my hot tub water?
  8. How to test the water in my hot tub?

FAQs about Hot Tub Sanitizers

What sanitizer should I use in my hot tub?

The best sanitizer for your hot tub depends on factors like the type and size of your hot tub and your personal preferences. Common options include chlorine, bromine, biguanide, and non-chlorine shock. Each has unique benefits and drawbacks, so it's essential to choose the one that aligns best with your needs for effectiveness, ease of use, and skin sensitivity.

Is sanitizer the same as chlorine in a hot tub?

Sanitizer and chlorine are not the same in a hot tub. While sanitizers kill bacteria and viruses to ensure water safety, chlorine specifically acts to oxidize and disinfect. Both play crucial roles in maintaining clean hot tub water, but they work in slightly different ways to keep the water safe and enjoyable.

What chemicals should I have on hand for my hot tub?

For optimal results, use O-Care spa sanitizers in combination with other hot tub chemicals. O-Care is gentler and more effective than regular alcohol-based sanitizers, helping to maintain soft, balanced, and clean water. Additional chemicals like pH balancers, oxidizers, and water clarifiers may also be needed depending on your hot tub's specific requirements.

What can I use in my hot tub other than chlorine?

Alternatives to chlorine for hot tubs include bromine, non-chlorine shock, and ozone. Bromine is gentler on the skin, non-chlorine shock provides quick sanitation, and ozone is an eco-friendly option. Each has its pros and cons, so choosing the right one depends on your needs for maintenance ease, skin sensitivity, and environmental impact.