Top 5 Hot Tub Filters: Expert Review & Buying Guide (54 chars)

What makes your hot tub water sparkle like a crystal clear swimming pool? The secret often lies in a small but mighty component: the filter. A cloudy, murky hot tub is no place to relax after a long day. Dealing with yucky water is frustrating, right? You want that perfect, soothing soak, but choosing the right filter feels like navigating a confusing maze of numbers, sizes, and materials.

Many hot tub owners feel lost when it comes to filter selection. Do you need pleated paper, or maybe a reusable fabric? Will the wrong size cause pump problems or just let dirt through? These worries stop you from getting the clean, healthy water you deserve.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know about hot tub filters. You will learn how to match the perfect filter to your spa, ensuring maximum cleanliness and saving you money in the long run. Get ready to transform your maintenance routine from a chore into a simple step. Let’s dive into the world of hot tub filtration and find your ideal match!

Top Filter For Hot Tub Recommendations

No. 1
Macaberry Type Ⅵ Hot Tub Spa Filter Replacement Compatible with Lay-Z-Spa, Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323, Inflatable Hot Tub, Swimming Pool Pump Filter Type Ⅵ Cartridge, 12 Pack
  • PERFECT FIT: Type VI Spa and Hot Tub Filter Replacement Cartridge compatible with Coleman SaluSpa filter, Lay-Z-Spa and other inflatable hot tub filters.
  • HIGHLY FILTRATION PERFORMANCE: Premium quality dacron fabric collects hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand, etc; easy to clean and replace. The inflatable hot tub filter cartridge is installed inside the filter pump and captures dirt as it passes through the system.
  • KEEP YOUR POOL CLEAN: Keep your pool safe and clean with a Type VI Swimming Pool Filter to protect and keep your pool clean for the summers to come!
  • REPLACEMENT FILTER: For best results, clean your Type VI Spa filter cartridge replacement often and replace it every 2 weeks during heavy usage. Our type VI SPA filters measure 4.1” x 3.1” and are conveniently sold in 12 and 16 packs.
  • Customer Service: If you have any questions about the Type VI Spa filter, please contact our customer service immediately to solve the problem. We want to ensure you have a clean, healthy and safe swimming pool.
No. 2
Bestway SaluSpa Filter Cartridge (VI) 2-Pack | Compatible with All SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub and Spa Models
  • Premium type VI filter cartridge replacement is compatible with pumps for SaluSpa hot tubs
  • Easy to clean design allows these filters to last longer than other replacements, eliminating frequent purchases
  • Replacement cartridge for SaluSpa hot tubs helps you keep your spa water clean and pristine
  • Shrink wrapped with insert card; Includes 2 filter cartridges; Model number: 60311E
  • Depth: 4.20 inches; Width: 4.20 inches; Height: 3.10 inches; Diameter: 4.20 inches; Dimensions (L x W x H): 4.2 x 4.2 x 3.1 inches; Quantity: 2
No. 3
Beckacher Hot Tub Filter Compatible with All RELXTIME Hot Tub, Pool Filters, Spa Filter Replacement, Filter Cartridges for Inflatable Hot Tubs Filtration, 4 Filter + 4 Filter Covers
  • Compatible Model - Our Spa Hot Tub Filter Replacement is Compatible With All RELXTIME inflatable hot tub, spa pools.
  • Longer Lasting Clean - Our spa filters are made of extra-durable plastic and trilobal filtration fabric that keeps the water cleaner than ordinary filter paper. Effective collection of dirt particles such as hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand. Enjoy clean bathing and fun with your family and friends.
  • Value Package - Including 4 x Spa Filter and 4 x Spa Filter Covers. It is recommended to change the spa filter regularly to maintain filtration efficiency, and replace it every 2-3 days during heavy usage. To ensure a constant replacement pool filter performance, clean your spa filter cartridge replacement before and after use.
  • Great Filtration Performance - The unique trilobal filtration fabric offers an enhanced surface area, optimizing back pressure throughout your filtration system. This ensures consistently clean, fresh, and clear water for your pool or spa. A dense pleating structure provides a larger filtration area than the comment filters of the same size, making the filtration more efficient.
  • Easy to Clean and Replace - This hot tub filter for RELXTIME inflatable hot tub can be cleaned very easily, simply remove the filter from the water inlet inside the spa, remove the cartridge, you can scrub the filter with a cartridge cleaner tool, and then wash it under a strong water pressure to remove loose particles from the filter's fabric.
No. 4
Volca Spares Hot Tub Filter Cartridge Size VI for Bestway, Lay-Z-Spa, Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323, 6 Pack
  • Provides clean and clear water by introducing our Type VI filter cartridge
  • D.I.M: 4.1 x 3.1", for all spa models using Type VI filters, compatible with Bestway, Lay-Z-Spa, Coleman and SaluSpa
  • Premium quality dacron fabric collects hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand, etc; easy to clean and replace
  • For best results, clean filter cartridges often and replace every few weeks if used heavily
  • 100% satisfaction products and worry-free customer service from Volca Spares
No. 5
KGC Type VI Hot Tub Spa Filters Compatible with Coleman Saluspa 90352E 58323E 90427E, Lay-Z-Spa Hot Tub Filter Cartridge, Inflatable Hot Tub Filters Replacements (4 Pack)
  • TYPE VI FILTER: KGC 4 PACK Type VI hot tub filters are compatible with Coleman saluspa hot tub filters, Lay-Z Spa, Intex and other inflatable hot tubs requiring type VI filters. Dimension of Outer Diameter: 4.2", Inside Diameter: 2", Height: 3.1"
  • ULTIMATE FILTRATION: Made of 25% thicker filtration fabric that traps more contaminants than regular fabric. These filter replacement for Saluspa can efficiently remove hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand for your hot tub and pool. Enjoy clean leisure time in your pool
  • KEEP POOL OR SPA FRESH: 50% open polypropylene flow core supports the filter fabric to maximize water flow, help keep the best performance for coleman saluspa filter and keep pool water clear, bring you ultimate spa experience.
  • EASY REPLACE AND CLEAN: Made trilobal effectively absorbs dirt, helps your cloeman hot tub to get rid of gunk! Take the VI filter out of the pump, then wash it under strong water pressure to remove particles.Clean your sasulspa replacement accessories every 2 weeks for best results
  • Delivery include 4pcs KGC type VI filters for coleman saluspa
No. 6
Intex 29001E PureSpa Type S1 Heavy Duty Easy Set Dacron Paper Hot Tub Spa Filter Replacement Cartridge for Various PureSpa Models, 2 Pack
  • SPA FILTERS: Powerful and useful cartridge filter 2-pack keeps your PureSpa Jet Massage water clear and fresh, making for a more relaxing spa experience
  • EASY MAINTENANCE: Maintains and cleans easily with heavy-duty Dacron paper, providing the ultimate filtration for your hot tub
  • CHANGE ONCE PER MONTH: For maximum efficiency, clean cartridges each week and replace once per month or sooner
  • BETTER PERFORMANCE: Designed for keeping your hot tub and spa safe and clean, working hard to increase the performance of your pool
  • COMPATIBILITY: Works with all Intex PureSpa models including 28403E, 28407E, 28443E, 28453E, 28421E, 28423E, 28413E, and 28453E
No. 7
POOLPURE 6CH-940 Spa Filter Replaces PWW50P3(1 1/2" Coarse Thread), 817-0050, Filbur FC-0359, 25252, 03FIL1400, Waterway Front Access Skimmer, Screw in SAE Thread Filter 2 Pack
  • 🍀Specifications: Length: 7 5/8"; Outside Diameter: 6"; Top: Circular Handle; Bottom: 1 1/2" SAE thread ; Filtration Area: 50 sq. ft; Filter Material: Trilobal Filtration Fabric.
  • 🍀Compatible Models: PLF6CH-940 Spa Filter is compatible with PWW50P3(Not PWW50P4), Unicel 6CH-940, Filbur FC-0359, Waterway Plastics 817-0050, 25252, 378902, 03FIL1400, HTF0245RT. ★NOTE: This is a compatible replacement. Original manufacturers' names and part numbers are for reference only. POOLPURE stands as an independent brand.
  • 🍀NSF/ANSI 50 Certified Safety: PoolPure pool and spa filter is tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 standards for material safety. All components are proven safe for long-term water exposure, ensuring no harmful substances are released. Protect your family’s health and enjoy cleaner, safer pool and spa water.
  • 🍀Trilobal Filtration Fabric Design: The innovative trilobal fiber structure provides three times the adsorption surface area compared to conventional filter fabrics. It captures more dirt and sediment while maintaining consistent water clarity, even under frequent use—so you can enjoy crystal-clear water all day long.
  • 🍀Patented Dirt-Locking Technology: Our exclusive dirt-locking structure efficiently captures debris and makes cleaning effortless. During rinsing, trapped dirt is released easily and thoroughly. The filter is simple to rinse, reusable, and significantly reduces both maintenance time and costs.
No. 8
POOLPURE PLFPRB25-IN Hot Tub Filter Replace Unicel C-4326, Guardian 413-106, Filbur FC-2375, FC-2370, 3005845, 17-2327, 100586, 33521, 25392, 817-2500, 5X13 Drop in Spa Filter 1 Pack
  • 🍀Specifications: Length: 13 5/16”; Outside Diameter: 5”; Top Hole: 2 1/8”; Bottom Hole: 2 1/8”; Filtration Area: 25 Sq.ft; Filter Material: Trilobal Filtration Fabric.
  • 🍀Compatible Models: PLFPRB25-IN Pool Filter is compatible with PRB25-IN, Unicel C-4326, Filbur FC-2375, FC-2370, SD-00196, 303909, M-4326, 8172500, R173429. ★NOTE: This is a compatible replacement. Original manufacturers' names and part numbers are for reference only. POOLPURE stands as an independent brand.
  • 🍀NSF/ANSI 50 Certified Safety: PoolPure pool and spa filter is tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 standards for material safety. All components are proven safe for long-term water exposure, ensuring no harmful substances are released. Protect your family’s health and enjoy cleaner, safer pool and spa water.
  • 🍀Trilobal Filtration Fabric Design: The innovative trilobal fiber structure provides three times the adsorption surface area compared to conventional filter fabrics. It captures more dirt and sediment while maintaining consistent water clarity, even under frequent use—so you can enjoy crystal-clear water all day long.
  • 🍀Patented Dirt-Locking Technology: Our exclusive dirt-locking structure efficiently captures debris and makes cleaning effortless. During rinsing, trapped dirt is released easily and thoroughly. The filter is simple to rinse, reusable, and significantly reduces both maintenance time and costs.

Choosing the Right Filter for Your Hot Tub: A Simple Buying Guide

Your hot tub is a place for relaxation. Clean water makes it much better. The filter is the heart of clean water. It traps dirt and tiny particles. This guide helps you pick the best filter. A good filter means clearer, healthier water for everyone.

Key Features to Look For

When buying a hot tub filter, several features matter a lot. These features decide how well the filter cleans your water.

1. Filter Size and Shape

You must get the right size. Filters come in many shapes, like cylindrical or special pleated forms. Measure your old filter carefully. The new one must fit perfectly into the filter housing. A wrong size means poor filtration.

2. Micron Rating

The micron rating tells you how small the particles the filter catches are. Most good hot tub filters have a rating between 5 and 15 microns. Lower numbers mean finer filtration. A 5-micron filter catches very tiny specks. This gives you super clear water.

3. Flow Rate Capacity

This is how much water the filter lets through easily. A higher flow rate is usually better. It lets your pump work without struggling. If the flow rate is too low, your pump might overheat or work too hard. Check your hot tub manual for the required flow rate.

Important Materials Matter

Filters are usually made from special materials. The material affects cleaning power and how long the filter lasts.

Pleated Polyester Fabric

Most modern filters use pleated polyester. This material is strong. The pleats increase the surface area. More surface area means the filter catches more dirt before needing a clean.

Alternative Media

Some newer filters use special materials like Reemay or sometimes even ceramic elements. These materials can sometimes trap smaller particles or last longer between cleanings. Polyester is the most common and usually works very well.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Filter quality is not just about what it is made of. How you care for it also plays a big role.

  • Good Quality Indicator: Thick, tightly packed pleats show good construction. The end caps should feel sturdy and not flimsy.
  • Quality Reduction: Thin fabric means less dirt holding capacity. Poorly sealed end caps let water bypass the filter material. This lets dirty water back into your tub.

Remember, regular cleaning improves the filter’s quality over time. Dirty filters clog quickly. Clogged filters reduce water flow.

User Experience and Use Cases

How easy is the filter to use? This impacts your enjoyment.

Ease of Access

Can you easily get to the filter compartment? Some hot tubs make filter removal simple. Others require tools or awkward maneuvering. Easy access encourages frequent cleaning.

Replacement Frequency

High-quality filters might last longer before needing replacement. If you use your hot tub daily, you will need to clean and maybe replace filters more often than someone who uses it once a month. Plan for replacement every 4 to 6 months for heavy use.

Using the correct filter means less time worrying about maintenance and more time soaking. Always use the type recommended by your hot tub manufacturer if possible.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hot Tub Filters

Q: How often should I clean my hot tub filter?

A: You should remove and rinse your filter at least once a week. Give it a deeper soak in a filter cleaning solution every month or two.

Q: How often do I replace the entire filter cartridge?

A: Most filters need replacement every 4 to 6 months. If the pleats look worn or start tearing, replace it sooner.

Q: Can I use a dishwasher to clean my filter?

A: No, do not use a dishwasher. The high heat from a dishwasher can melt the plastic and damage the filter fabric.

Q: What does a low micron rating mean for filtration?

A: A lower micron rating (like 5) means the filter catches smaller dirt particles. This results in clearer water.

Q: What happens if I use the wrong size filter?

A: If the size is wrong, it will either not fit, or water will flow around it instead of through it. This means your water stays dirty.

Q: Can a dirty filter damage my hot tub pump?

A: Yes, a very dirty filter restricts water flow. This forces your pump to work harder, which can cause it to overheat or fail early.

Q: Should I clean or replace my filter after shocking the tub?

A: It is a good idea to rinse the filter after adding a large dose of chemicals like shock. This prevents chemicals from sitting on the filter material too long.

Q: What is the difference between a standard filter and a premium filter?

A: Premium filters usually have more pleats or a higher quality fabric. They trap more debris and often last slightly longer before needing a deep clean.

Q: How do I know if my filter is past its useful life?

A: If the filter material looks permanently stained brown or grey even after soaking, or if the plastic end caps feel brittle, it is time for a replacement.

Q: Can I run my hot tub without a filter installed?

A: No, never run your hot tub without a filter. Debris will immediately clog the internal plumbing and damage the heater or pump.