How to Clean a Spa Filter: A Simple Guide to Better Spa Water

Every time you use your spa, the filter helps remove oils, dirt, hair, lotions and other debris from the water. Over time, all that stuff builds up in the filter, and a dirty filter can affect both your water quality and how efficiently your spa operates.

So, when was the last time you cleaned your spa filter?

If you're struggling to remember, it's probably time. 

Here's our simple guide to how to clean a spa filter, how often you should do it and why keeping your filter clean is an important part of spa maintenance.

Why is cleaning your spa filter important?

Your spa filter plays a big role in keeping your water clean and clear.

As the filter collects oils, dirt and debris, it can gradually become clogged. A clogged filter can restrict water flow and make your spa's circulation system work harder.

Regular spa filter cleaning can help with:

• 💧 Cleaner, clearer water
• 🔄 Better water circulation
• ⚙️ Improved spa efficiency
• 🧼 Removing built-up oils and debris
• 🛁 Maintaining your spa water quality
• ⏳ Helping extend the life of your filter

A clean filter is a small part of spa maintenance that can make a big difference.

How often should you clean a spa filter?

How often you need to clean your spa filter depends on how often your spa is used and how much debris and body products are entering the water.

As a general guide, it's a good idea to rinse your spa filter regularly and give it a more thorough clean when it starts to look dirty or becomes clogged.

If your spa gets a lot of use, you may need to clean the filter more frequently.

A good habit is to check your filter regularly rather than waiting until your spa water starts looking cloudy.

Signs your spa filter needs cleaning

Not sure whether your filter needs attention?

Look for:

Dirty or discoloured filter pleats
If you can see a build-up of dirt, oils or other debris, it's time for a clean.

Reduced water flow
A clogged filter can restrict circulation.

Cloudy spa water
A dirty filter can contribute to poor water clarity.

The filter looks clogged
This one sounds obvious — but it's easy to forget to check!

Your spa is getting a lot of use
More people in the spa means more oils, lotions and contaminants for your filter to deal with.

How to clean a spa filter

Cleaning a spa filter doesn't need to be complicated.

Step 1: Turn off your spa

Before removing the filter, turn off your spa and make sure the pump isn't running.

Remove the filter according to your spa manufacturer's instructions.

Step 2: Give the filter a good rinse

Use a hose to rinse between the filter pleats.

Work from the top of the filter downwards and aim the water between the pleats to flush out dirt and debris.

Take your time here. A quick splash over the outside of the filter won't necessarily remove the build-up hiding between the pleats.

Step 3: Use a quality spa filter cleaner

Rinsing removes loose dirt and debris, but a dedicated spa filter cleaner like the Pool Guys Spa Cartridge Cleaner can help tackle the oils, lotions and other contaminants that can build up inside the filter.

Follow the instructions for your particular filter cleaner.

A good filter cleaner should be designed to break down the type of contamination commonly found in spa filters without damaging the filter media when used correctly.

Step 4: Rinse thoroughly

After cleaning, rinse the filter thoroughly with clean water.

You want to remove any remaining cleaner and loosened debris before putting the filter back into your spa.

Step 5: Reinstall the filter

Once the filter has been thoroughly rinsed, put it back into your spa according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Turn your spa back on and check that the water is circulating normally.

Can I just hose my spa filter?

Yes - regular hosing is an important part of keeping your spa filter clean.

However, rinsing and deep cleaning aren't quite the same thing.

A hose is great for removing loose debris such as dirt, hair and leaves. But filters can also collect oils, lotions and other contaminants that may not be removed effectively with a quick rinse.

That's where a dedicated spa filter cleaner is useful.

What happens if you don't clean your spa filter?

A neglected filter can become increasingly clogged with contaminants.

This can reduce water flow and make it harder for your spa's filtration system to do its job effectively.

You may also find yourself dealing with water that becomes harder to keep clean and clear.

And there's another problem:

Your filter can only hold so much.

Once it's loaded with dirt, oils and debris, it can't keep doing its job efficiently.

Think of your spa filter like a vacuum cleaner bag - if it's already full, it's not going to work at its best.

Good spa water comes from good overall water care.

How long should a spa filter last?

The lifespan of a spa filter depends on the type of filter, how often the spa is used and how well it is maintained.

Regular cleaning can help keep your filter performing properly, but filters are not designed to last forever.

If your filter is damaged, deteriorating or simply isn't coming clean anymore, it may be time for a replacement.

The Pool Guys' simple spa filter routine

Want to make spa filter maintenance easy?

Try this simple routine:

👀 Check it regularly
Don't wait until your spa water becomes cloudy.

💦 Rinse it regularly
Remove loose dirt and debris before it builds up.

🧼 Deep clean it
Use a quality spa filter cleaner to tackle oils, lotions and stubborn build-up.

🚿 Rinse thoroughly
Make sure all cleaner and loosened debris is removed.

🔄 Keep up the routine
Regular maintenance is much easier than trying to rescue a neglected filter.

One small job. A big difference.

Your spa filter might not be the most exciting part of owning a spa, but it plays an important role in keeping your water clean and your spa running properly.

So, when did you last clean yours?

If you're thinking "Hmm… I genuinely can't remember," that's probably your answer. 😂

Need spa care products?

Pool Guys manufactures its own range of pool and spa products right here in New Zealand, designed to help make pool and spa maintenance simpler.

Keep the filter clean. Keep the water clear. Spend more time enjoying the spa.

You enjoy the spa. We'll handle the pool stuff.