Best Hot Tub Filters Review: Our Top 5 Picks Now

Does your hot tub water sometimes feel less than crystal clear? You scrub the sides, you check the chemicals, but that slight cloudiness just won’t disappear. You might be overlooking one of the most important parts of your spa: the filter! These unsung heroes work hard to keep your soaking experience pure and inviting, but choosing the right one can feel like a confusing puzzle. Do you need pleated? Ceramic? How often should you clean it? These questions can quickly turn a relaxing soak into a maintenance headache.

We know you want clean, sparkling water without the guesswork. That’s why we dove deep into the world of hot tub filtration. By the end of this guide, you will understand exactly what makes a filter work, how to pick the perfect match for your specific spa, and simple steps to keep it working like new. Get ready to ditch the confusion and enjoy the clearest water your hot tub has ever produced. Let’s break down everything you need to know about keeping your filter in top shape!

Top Hot Tub Filters 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
Nayoku Type Ⅵ Hot Tub Spa Filter Replacement Compatible with Lay-Z-Spa, Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323 90427E, Inflatable Hot Tub, Swimming Pool Pump Filter Type Ⅵ Cartridge, 12 Pack
  • ✅TYPE VI FILTER: Type VI hot tub filters are compatible with Coleman SaluSpa 90353E, 58323E, 53323, 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"
  • ✅POWERFUL FILTERING:The type VI filters help remove the sediment, sand, leaves, hair, suntan lotion, and dust, keeping your hot tub and pool clean, and offering you a healthy, comfortable spare family time.
  • ✅DURABLE AND LONG-LASTING: The filter is designed to extend its service life while keeping pollutants away from clean water. We recommend you wash the type VI filter every 2 weeks for the best performance of your SPA, also increases the type VI filters' service life.
  • ✅EASY TO CLEAN: Our type VI replacement Spa filters feature extra-durable plastic and quality fiber pleats. Our Spa filters for hot tubs are so easy to clean, washable, and reusable. Enjoy clean leisure time in your pool.
  • ✅After-sales Guarantee: If you are dissatisfied with the product, just contact us by email, and we will sincerely seek the most satisfactory solution for you. Your satisfaction is our pursuit, to helping you solve the problem is our responsibility.
No. 3
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. 4
LYJHKJ Type VI Inflatable Hot Tub Filters Cartridge and SPA Filters Replacements Compatible with Coleman Saluspa 90352E 58323 90427E, Lay-Z-Spa Hot Tub Filter Cartridge, 4 Pack
  • Perfect Fit & Compatibility: Our Type VI hot tub filter replacements is compatible with Coleman SaluSpa 90352E, 58323E, 58323, 58324, 90427E, 90363E, 60311E, Lay-Z-Spa, and other inflatable hot tub filters, providing efficient filtration to keep your spa clean and refreshing.
  • Efficient Filtration Performance: Our spa filters for inflatable hot tubs feature a unique pleated design that increases the filtration surface area, capturing more contaminants. They effectively remove hair, leaves, dust, debris, and sand, keeping your pool or spa water clean and crystal clear.
  • Advanced Filtration Technology: Our spa filter cartridge features innovative "anti-stain" technology and a unique trilobal fabric, capturing more contaminants and fine particles than standard filters for superior water clarity.
  • Premium Durable Material: Our spa filter replacement features premium impregnated woven fiber with a dense trilobal structure, capturing 5X more contaminants while maximizing water flow. Its chlorine-resistant end cap ensures durability in high temperatures. Perfect for hot tubs and pools, it offers long-lasting filtration.
  • Easy to Clean and Replace: Type VI hot tub filter is easy to clean and replace. Scrub with a filter cleaning tool and rinse under high water pressure. Regular weekly cleaning helps extend its lifespan, and it can be reused multiple times. For optimal performance, replace the spa filter cartridge every two weeks.
No. 5
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. 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
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. 8
Unicel C-8465 65 Square Foot Media Replacement Hot Tub Spa Filter Cartridge with 234 Pleats, Compatible with Hot Springs, Caldera, & Tiger River Spas
  • Replacement Spa Filter: C-8465 filter cartridge features 65 square feet (234 pleats) of 3-ounce basis weight media that catches debris and particles down to an average of 20 microns in size, keeping your hot tub water clear
  • Optimal Debris Capture: Filter cartridge has sharp, uniform pleat folds that maximize water flow, minimize pressure loss, and allow full use of the pleat surface to hold more debris
  • Filter Media: Constructed with 100-percent polyester Reemay material that balances dirt-holding capacity, cleanability, and durability with excellent chemical resistance properties
  • End Cap Features: End cap design includes a 3-inch open configuration for easy removal and replacement; Durable plastic resists damage from chemicals
  • Spa Fitment: Compatible with Hot Springs Spas, Caldera Spas, and Tiger River Spas; OD: 8-1/2 inches; Length: 10-1/2 inches

Your Guide to Choosing the Best Hot Tub Filter

A clean hot tub feels amazing. A dirty one? Not so much. The filter is the unsung hero keeping your water sparkling. Choosing the right one makes a big difference in your hot tub experience. This guide helps you pick the perfect filter.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a new filter, focus on these important features:

  • Filtration Size (Microns): This tells you how small of a particle the filter can catch. Lower numbers mean finer cleaning, but they might clog faster. Most good filters aim for 10 to 20 microns.
  • Filter Type: There are two main types: Pleated Cartridge Filters and D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters. Cartridge filters are the most common and easiest to use.
  • Dimensions: You must measure your old filter! Length, diameter, and the hole size at the ends must match exactly. A filter that is too big won’t fit; one too small won’t seal properly.
  • End Cap Style: Look at how the ends connect. Do they have a screw thread, or do they snap into place? Make sure the connection style matches your spa housing.

Important Materials

The material of the filter media directly affects how well it cleans and how long it lasts.

Pleated Polyester Fabric: This is the standard material. Good polyester resists chemicals well. High-quality fibers trap more dirt without blocking water flow too quickly.

Antimicrobial Coatings: Some premium filters include special coatings. These coatings help stop bacteria and mold from growing right on the filter material. This keeps the water cleaner between deep cleans.

Durable Core: The center of the filter often has a plastic or mesh core. This core must be strong. It keeps the pleated fabric open so water can move through efficiently.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all filters work the same way. Pay attention to what makes a filter great or just okay.

Quality Boosters:
  • High Surface Area: More pleats mean more surface area for trapping dirt. A filter with deep, tightly packed pleats captures more debris before needing a rinse.
  • Chemical Resistance: Filters used in hot tubs must handle chlorine and bromine. Better materials resist breaking down from these chemicals.
Quality Reducers:
  • Cheap Plastic: If the end caps feel flimsy or thin, the filter might crack under water pressure. Cheap plastic also degrades faster in hot water.
  • Low Density Fabric: Thin, loosely packed fabric lets small particles pass right through. You will see cloudy water even with a brand-new filter.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use your hot tub affects which filter works best for you.

For Heavy Users: If you use your hot tub daily or have lots of bathers, you need a robust filter. Consider buying two identical filters. You can swap one out for cleaning while the other one is in use. This keeps filtration running smoothly.

For Light Users: If you only use your spa occasionally, a standard, good-quality cartridge filter will work well. Focus more on regular chemical balancing to prevent stagnation.

Cleaning Routine: No matter the filter quality, you must clean it regularly (usually every 4-6 weeks). A quality filter handles repeated rinsing and soaking in a filter cleaner solution better than a cheap one.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hot Tub Filters

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

A: Most manufacturers recommend replacing your filter cartridge every 12 to 18 months. You should clean it much more often, though!

Q: How do I know if my filter is dirty?

A: If the water flow into the spa seems weak, or if the pressure gauge reads high, the filter is probably clogged and needs immediate cleaning.

Q: Can I use a generic filter instead of the brand-name one?

A: Yes, if the dimensions (length, diameter, and end type) match exactly. Generic filters are often much cheaper and work just as well if they meet the size specifications.

Q: What is the difference between micron ratings?

A: A lower micron number means the filter catches smaller particles. 10 microns is very fine; 20 microns is standard cleaning power.

Q: Is it better to clean or replace my filter?

A: You should always clean the filter regularly. You only replace it when the material starts to tear, the pleats collapse, or if it stays dirty even after deep cleaning.

Q: What is the best way to clean a hot tub filter?

A: First, rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose. Second, soak it overnight in a commercial filter cleaning solution to break down oils and lotions.

Q: Will a dirty filter make my water cloudy?

A: Yes. A clogged filter cannot effectively trap debris, so small particles stay floating, making your water look hazy or cloudy.

Q: Do all hot tubs use the same size filter?

A: No. Hot tubs come in many sizes and brands, so filter sizes vary widely. Always measure your old filter before buying a replacement.

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

A: No. Running the tub without a filter can damage the pump because debris will enter the circulation system.

Q: Are antimicrobial filters worth the extra cost?

A: They can be helpful, especially if you sometimes forget to clean your filter right on schedule. They help slow down the growth of unseen germs on the filter material.