A hot tub can be a great addition to your backyard, providing a relaxing and luxurious spot to unwind. However, an unattractive or outdated hot tub can be an eyesore. The good news is there are many simple and affordable ways to make your hot tub look more attractive and inviting. With some small upgrades and spruce ups, you can transform your tired tub into a beautiful backyard oasis.
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Give it a good clean
One of the easiest ways to instantly improve the look of your hot tub is to give it a deep clean. Over time, hot tubs can accumulate dirt, calcium deposits, grime, and other buildup. Taking the time to scrub the shell, jets, and plumbing lines will reveal the hot tub’s true color and luster. Be sure to use a hot tub specific cleaner for best results. You may need to repeat the process a few times if your hot tub is especially dirty.
Steps for cleaning your hot tub:
- Drain the old water from the hot tub.
- Use a hot tub vacuum to remove debris from the bottom.
- Scrub the shell with a hot tub surface cleaner and brush.
- Remove and soak the filter cartridge in filter cleaner.
- Scrub the water lines and jets.
- Rinse thoroughly before refilling.
Taking the time for a deep clean makes a huge difference in the overall look of your hot tub. Be sure to stay on top of regular maintenance cleaning as well to keep it looking fresh and clean.
Give it a fresh coat of stain
Re-staining the wood skirt around your hot tub is an easy upgrade that immediately gives it a facelift. Wood skirts can start to look worn, faded, or discolored over time. Stain adds rich color and protects the wood. Carefully remove old stain with a wood stain stripper and sand the skirt. Choose a new semi-transparent stain color that enhances your backyard. Apply two coats with a paintbrush and let dry completely. Your hot tub skirt will look brand new!
Tips for restaining a hot tub skirt:
- Use an oil-based stain for best protection.
- Apply stain on a dry day when temperatures are above 50°F.
- Stir stain thoroughly before and during application.
- Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
- Dispose of rags properly due to combustion hazard.
Update the cabinetry
If your hot tub has a stained wood surround that is worn or dated, consider updating it with new cabinetry. Many companies offer replacement hot tub cabinet panels in fresh, modern colors and materials. Popular options include faux wood composite panels that resist weathering, or vertical slat panels in cedar, redwood, or pressure treated pine. Installing new cabinetry instantly gives your hot tub a contemporary facelift. Hiring a professional is recommended for proper installation and waterproofing.
Ideas for new hot tub cabinetry:
- Composite panels in gray, brown, or black
- Vertical wood slats with small gaps
- Cedar for a natural, rustic look
- Bamboo for a tropical vibe
- Painted wood in a fresh, bright color
Measure carefully and shop for the exact size needed for your model. With new cabinetry and hardware, it will look like you have a brand new hot tub!
Make minor repairs
Take a close look at your hot tub and make any minor repairs needed to get it looking its best. Cracked or damaged spots on the shell, skirt, or bench can detract from its beauty. Repair cracks with patching compounds made for spas. Replace any damaged or missing trim pieces on the shell or skirting. Fix any leaky plumbing connections and jets. Swapping out old, worn pillows for new colorful ones also adds comfort and visual appeal. Taking care of minor wear and tear restores your hot tub to like-new condition.
Common hot tub repairs:
- Shell/surface cracks
- Punctures or holes
- Worn or damaged jets
- Leaky plumbing parts
- Broken trim/molding
- Warped or cracked cover
- Eroded foam insulation
Refresh the water
Cloudy, green, or smelly water is an instant turnoff. Give your hot tub a fresh start with a complete drain and refill. Dump all old water, scrub the empty shell and jets, and refill with clean water. Apply a hot tub clarifier or surface skimmer when refilling to prevent foaming and debris buildup. As you begin using your hot tub again, maintain proper chemical balances to keep the water crystal clear. Schedule regular water changes to keep it fresh. Clean, clear water makes your hot tub far more welcoming. Consider installing an automatic chlorine dispenser for consistent sanitization without hassle.
Tips for clean hot tub water:
- Test and adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer weekly.
- Shock treat the water monthly.
- Replace filters per manufacturer instructions.
- Run the jets and leave cover open 30 minutes daily.
- Add enzyme cleaner monthly to reduce oils and organic matter.
Update the cover
A worn out hot tub cover makes the whole tub look dated and dingy. After years of exposure to sun, rain, snow, and moisture, covers can start to sag, discolor, crack, or grow mold and mildew. Treat yourself to a brand new vinyl cover that complements your spa. Choose from nice earth tones like brown, gray, or tan. A new cover provides insulation, protects your hot tub, and gives it an instant facelift. Look for thick tapered foam cores and durable marine grade vinyl.
Features to look for in a new hot tub cover:
- 4-5 inches tapered foam insulation
- Double-stitched seams
- Sturdy marine grade vinyl
- Weather/UV resistant
- Reinforced handles
- Locking safety straps
- Matching skirt/valance
Improve access
Safe, easy access in and out of your hot tub is key. If your hot tub lacks clear paths, stairs, and secure handrails, consider improving the access points. Clear debris, overgrown plants, and other obstructions around the hot tub. Build steps appropriate to the height of your tub using plastic ladder steps or wooden boxes. Install sturdy grab rails that allow users to safely lower themselves into the water. Improve drainage around the tub to prevent puddles and slippery conditions. Proper access prevents injuries and makes using your hot tub more enjoyable.
Ideas for better hot tub access:
- Plastic modular steps or boxes for different heights
- Deck steps with integrated planters or storage
- Non-slip composite steps
- Wider steps for comfort and safety
- Built-in or mounted grab rails
- Non-slip mats/tape on steps
- Landscaping stones around tub
Enhance the surroundings
The area immediately around your hot tub is part of the experience. Make it more relaxing and inviting by enhancing the landscaping, hardscaping, lighting, and privacy. Strategically placed plants offer a lush, tropical feel. Decorative stones or pavers create an elegant space for lounging. Outdoor curtains or screens increase privacy while softening the setting. Low voltage LED lights set a dreamy mood in the evenings. A water feature or fire pit nearby adds ambiance. Focus on creating a serene, spa-like environment.
Ideas for enhancing the hot tub surroundings:
- Potted foliage plants like ferns or bamboo
- Flowering plants like hibiscus, roses, or bougainvillea
- Hardscape with pavers, pea gravel, or stone
- Privacy panels or screens
- Outdoor curtains on rods
- Accent lighting around tub
- Fire pit, fireplace, or chiminea
- Water fountain or small waterfall
Making small improvements to the area around your hot tub helps extend the spa experience. Focus on plants, materials, lighting, and amenities that stimulate the senses and support relaxation.
Add appealing accessories
The right accessories can give your hot tub area personality and style. Have fun selecting functional and decorative items that complement your tub and backyard. Quality cup holders keep drinks handy without taking up deck space. Floating trays hold snacks, phones, or skincare items. Waterproof speakers sync your favorite music. Colorful lighting adds ambiance day or night. Choose pillows, towels, and other textiles in colors and patterns you love. Dress up the area with your unique style. Change out accessories seasonally for fresh updates.
Fun hot tub accessories:
- Drink cup holders
- Floating trays
- Waterproof Bluetooth speakers
- Underwater lights
- Inflatable pillows
- Terry cloth robes
- Scented candles
- Hammock or swing nearby
Personalize your hot tub area with fun, eye-catching accessories that complement your style. This makes your backyard hot tub an even more enjoyable oasis to spend time in.
Give it a fresh look with paint
For a dramatic transformation, consider painting your exterior hot tub shell and cabinetry. Painting creates an instant new look and helps disguise signs of aging. Thoroughly clean, lightly sand, and apply a specialty bonding primer made for plastics. Choose a high-quality acrylic latex paint in a color that complements your backyard style. Darker earth tones or neutral colors work well. Use a paint sprayer for the easiest application and professional results. Paint the shell first, then cabinet panels. Be sure to follow all safety precautions when using spray paints. Transform the look of your hot tub with a new color!
Tips for painting a hot tub:
- Use 100% acrylic latex paint.
- Opt for darker colors to hide dirt.
- Lightly sand surfaces before priming.
- Apply 2-3 coats for full coverage.
- Use caution when spray painting.
- Apply primer and paint on dry, warm days.
Consider new LED lighting
Custom LED lighting adds ambiance and transforms the look of any hot tub. New lighting systems feature waterproof LED fixtures in a variety of colors that illuminate the hot tub from inside and out. Interior lights glow and change colors beneath the water. Exterior lights accent the hot tub’s shape and highlights key features. Many systems offer features like synchronized color shows, music synchronization, and remote app control. Contemporary lighting systems are affordable, easy to install, energy efficient, and long lasting. Mood lighting makes your hot tub look far more stylish and inviting!
| Lighting Feature | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Multi-color choices | Create fun themes and ambiance |
| Music synchronization | Lights dance to your playlists |
| Pre-programmed shows | Dynamic, synchronized color shows |
| Simple installation | Just adhere waterproof LED strips |
| Energy efficiency | Low voltage LED technology |
| Wireless control | Control lights via app |
With programmable smart LED systems, you can easily achieve custom lighting effects that spotlight your hot tub with style!
Conclusion
With some simple upgrades and TLC, you can give your tired hot tub a fresh new look. Start with a deep clean and fix minor damage or wear. Make upgrades like new cabinetry, stairs, or accessories. Enhance the ambiance with lighting, landscaping, and electronics. For major transformations, have your hot tub resurfaced or give it a new color with paint. With strategic improvements and spruce ups, you can bring renewed enjoyment to your backyard hot tub. Invest a little effort and take steps to give your hot tub a more attractive, inviting look.