THE 5 BEST HOT TUB VACUUMS OF 2025: A DEEP CLEAN BUYER’S GUIDE
Keeping your spa free of grit and debris is the secret to a perfect, comfortable soak.
Sinking into the warm, bubbling water of your hot tub is a slice of paradise. But that paradise can be quickly ruined by the gritty reality of sand, dirt, leaves, and other debris that inevitably find their way into your spa. While your filter system is great at catching floating particles, it’s powerless against the heavy grit that settles in the footwell and on the seats. This is where a dedicated hot tub vacuum becomes an essential tool in your maintenance arsenal.
A regular pool vacuum is too large and cumbersome for the tight corners of a spa, and draining your tub every time you see a bit of sand is impractical. A hot tub vacuum is a specially designed, lightweight tool that allows you to quickly and easily suck up debris without draining the water. But the market is filled with different types—manual, battery-powered, venturi-style—and it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Do you need the power of a rechargeable vac, or is a simple manual one enough?
This is your ultimate guide to a debris-free spa. We will explore the different types of hot tub vacuums, break down the key features to look for, and provide in-depth reviews of the 5 best models on the market today. This guide will give you the expert knowledge needed to choose the perfect vacuum and make your cleaning routine faster and more effective. A clean tub is the foundation of any good inflatable hot tub maintenance plan and is essential for both acrylic and inflatable spas, like those we cover in our guide to what is the best blow up hot tub.
THE ULTIMATE VACUUM BUYING GUIDE: UNDERSTANDING THE TECHNOLOGY
Before looking at specific models, it’s crucial to understand the three main types of hot tub vacuums. The right choice for you depends on your budget, the amount of debris you typically get, and your tolerance for manual effort.
THE THREE TYPES OF HOT TUB VACUUMS
- Battery-Powered Handheld Vacuums: These are the most popular and effective type. They are self-contained, rechargeable units with a built-in motor that creates powerful suction. They typically have an internal filter bag to trap debris and are often telescoping or attach to a standard pool pole. They are the best choice for homeowners who want fast, powerful, and convenient cleaning.
- Venturi-Style (Garden Hose Powered) Vacuums: These clever devices have no moving parts. They attach to your garden hose, and the pressure of the water flowing through the vacuum head creates a venturi effect, which generates suction. Debris is collected in an attached filter bag. They are affordable and surprisingly effective, but require you to drag a garden hose to your spa.
- Manual (Squeeze or Syphon) Vacuums: These are the simplest and cheapest option. A common type is a long tube with a one-way valve that you “prime” by pumping it a few times to start a siphon, which you can then direct to suck up small bits of debris. They are best for spot-cleaning a few visible pieces of grit, but are not practical for cleaning the entire tub.
KEY FEATURES TO LOOK FOR
- Suction Power: For battery models, this is key. A powerful motor will pick up sand, small pebbles, and leaves with ease.
- Debris Chamber / Filter Bag: A larger, easy-to-clean debris chamber means you can clean for longer without stopping to empty it.
- Head & Attachments: Look for a head with brushes to help scrub surfaces. Some models come with corner nozzles for tight spots.
- Pole Length: A telescoping pole or a connection for a standard pool pole is essential for cleaning the middle of the tub without having to get in.
- Run Time (for battery models): Most rechargeable vacuums offer 30-60 minutes of run time, which is more than enough to clean any hot tub several times over.
THE 5 BEST HOT TUB VACUUMS OF 2025
We’ve scoured the market to find the most powerful, reliable, and user-friendly vacuums to keep your spa sparkling clean.
POOL BLASTER CATFISH ULTRA
WHY IT’S #1
The Pool Blaster Catfish Ultra is the gold standard in handheld spa vacuums for a reason. It packs incredible suction power into a compact, rechargeable, and completely self-contained unit. It’s powerful enough to suck up acorns, pebbles, and large leaves, yet nimble enough to get into corners. The all-in-one filter bag is easy to remove and clean. It can be used as a handheld vac for steps and seats or attached to a standard pool pole to reach the footwell. With a 45-minute run time and a reputation for durability, the Catfish Ultra is the best and most effective cleaning tool for any hot tub owner who wants a quick, painless, and powerful cleaning solution.
- Type: Battery-Powered Handheld
- Run Time: Up to 45 Minutes
- Pole: Attaches to standard pool pole (not included)
- Debris Chamber: Reusable X-Treme Multilayer Filter Bag
PROS
- Extremely powerful suction for its size
- Rechargeable and fully cordless
- Large, easy-to-clean filter bag
- Durable, long-lasting construction
CONS
- Premium price point
- Does not include a pole
INTEX RECHARGEABLE HANDHELD VACUUM
WHY IT’S A TOP PICK
For owners of inflatable hot tubs, the Intex Handheld Vacuum is a perfectly matched and highly affordable tool. While not as powerful as the Pool Blaster, it offers more than enough suction to handle the sand, grit, and small debris common in spas like the Intex PureSpa or a Coleman SaluSpa. It comes with a lightweight, telescoping aluminum pole and two interchangeable brush heads. The built-in rechargeable battery provides a 50-minute run time, and it features an automatic shutoff when not submerged in water. It’s an incredible value and a must-have accessory for any inflatable hot tub owner. The convenience makes it easy to stick to a regular cleaning schedule, which is a key part of our guide on how to clean an inflatable hot tub.
- Type: Battery-Powered Handheld
- Run Time: Up to 50 Minutes
- Pole: 94-inch Telescoping Pole (Included)
- Debris Chamber: Internal Filter Bag
PROS
- Excellent value for a rechargeable vacuum
- Includes a telescoping pole
- Long 50-minute run time
- Perfectly suited for inflatable spas
CONS
- Less suction power than premium models
- Internal filter is smaller
AURA 6250 PARADISE POWER SPA VACUUM
WHY IT’S A TOP PICK
The Aura Paradise Power Spa Vac is a brilliantly simple, non-electric solution for spot cleaning. It requires no batteries or hoses. You simply submerge the vacuum, place your thumb over the hole on the end of the handle, place the nozzle over the debris, and release your thumb. The resulting suction quickly pulls the debris into the chamber. It’s incredibly effective for picking up small collections of sand, dirt, or even small leaves. While it’s not designed for cleaning an entire tub, it’s the perfect tool to keep handy for a quick 30-second cleanup before you hop in. Its simplicity is its strength—there are no parts to break or batteries to charge.
- Type: Manual / Siphon
- Power Source: Hand-powered suction
- Pole: Self-contained
- Debris Chamber: Internal Plastic Chamber
PROS
- Extremely simple to use
- No batteries or hoses required
- Inexpensive and durable
- Perfect for quick spot-cleaning
CONS
- Not suitable for large cleaning jobs
- Limited suction power per “pull”
POOLSURPLYTOWN MINI JET-VAC
WHY IT’S A TOP PICK
For those who want a bit more power than a manual vac without the cost of a battery-powered one, a venturi vacuum is the perfect middle ground. The Mini Jet-Vac is a simple but effective tool that connects to any standard garden hose. The water pressure flowing through the head creates suction that pulls debris into an attached mesh bag. While it does add a small amount of cool water to your spa, it’s a negligible amount. It’s fantastic for spring startups after your tub has been sitting, or for cleaning up after a storm that’s blown a lot of leaves in. It’s a simple, reliable, and affordable workhorse.
- Type: Venturi / Garden Hose Powered
- Power Source: Water Pressure
- Pole: Attaches to standard pool pole (not included)
- Debris Chamber: Reusable Mesh Bag
PROS
- No batteries or charging required
- Surprisingly strong suction
- Very affordable and durable
- Great for larger debris like leaves
CONS
- Requires a garden hose to be connected
- Adds a small amount of cold water to the tub
KOKIDO TESLA 50
WHY IT’S A TOP PICK
If the Pool Blaster Catfish is a powerful sports car, the Kokido Telsa 50 is the luxury sedan. It offers a premium, refined cleaning experience with a focus on ease of use. Its large debris chamber is easy to empty, and the pivoting head with ball wheels glides smoothly over the spa floor and seats. The suction is powerful and consistent, easily handling sand, grit, and leaves. It features a simple magnetic switch to ensure it’s perfectly sealed before operation. For the hot tub owner who wants a top-of-the-line, powerful, and ergonomically designed tool, the Telsa 50 is a fantastic investment in effortless cleaning.
- Type: Battery-Powered Handheld
- Run Time: Up to 40 Minutes
- Pole: Attaches to standard pool pole (not included)
- Debris Chamber: Large Stainless Steel Filter Cone
PROS
- Smooth, easy-to-maneuver head design
- Powerful and consistent suction
- Large and easy-to-clean debris cone
- Premium build quality
CONS
- High-end price point
- Heavier than some other models
BEYOND THE VACUUM: A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO A CLEAN SPA
A vacuum is a reactive tool for cleaning debris that has already entered your spa. A truly effective maintenance strategy also includes proactive steps to keep that debris out in the first place and to keep your water crystal clear.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
- Use the Cover: This is the #1 rule. Your hot tub cover should be on at all times when not in use. This not only saves a massive amount of energy but is your best defense against leaves, pollen, and other environmental debris. This is especially important if you are trying to use your tub in the colder months, a topic we cover in our guide to the best inflatable hot tub for winter.
- Rinse Before You Soak: A quick rinse in the shower before getting in the tub washes off lotions, deodorants, and dirt from your body that can cloud the water and tax your filter.
- Create a Foot Bath: Place a shallow bin of water next to your spa steps. A quick dip of your feet before getting in will wash off the grass and grit that would otherwise end up in your footwell.
THE ROLE OF THE FILTER
Your vacuum and your filter work as a team. The vacuum gets the heavy stuff, and the filter gets the fine, suspended particles. This is why a consistent cleaning routine is so important. For owners of the most popular inflatable models, from the compact Bestway SaluSpa Miami to larger family-sized spas, rinsing your filter cartridge every 2-3 days is the most important maintenance task you can perform. If you ever run into pump errors or flow issues, a clogged filter is the most likely culprit, a common issue we address in our Intex PureSpa troubleshooting guide.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
CAN I USE MY POOL VACUUM IN MY HOT TUB?
While you technically can, it’s generally not a good idea. Large, automatic pool cleaners are not designed for the small, contoured environment of a hot tub and can damage the acrylic or vinyl surface. Large manual pool vacuums are clumsy and difficult to maneuver around seats and in footwells. A dedicated spa vacuum is a relatively small investment that makes the job infinitely easier and safer for your spa’s surface.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I VACUUM MY HOT TUB?
This depends on your usage and environment. A good practice is to give it a quick vacuum once a week as part of your regular maintenance routine. If the tub is used heavily, is located under a tree, or if you have a lot of sand/grit in your area, you may want to do a quick spot-clean before each use.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REMOVE SAND FROM A HOT TUB?
Fine sand is the biggest challenge for many vacuums. A powerful, battery-operated vacuum like the Pool Blaster Catfish is the most effective tool. It has the direct suction needed to lift the heavy sand particles. For a large amount of sand, you may need to go over the area slowly a few times. A venturi vac can also work well, but manual siphon vacs often lack the power to lift a significant amount of sand.
THE FINAL VERDICT: THE KEY TO A SPARKLING CLEAN SOAK
A hot tub vacuum is an essential, time-saving tool that transforms a tedious chore into a quick and easy task. For the ultimate in power and convenience, the Pool Blaster Catfish Ultra is the clear winner and a worthy investment for any serious hot tub owner. For those with inflatable spas or smaller budgets, the Intex Rechargeable Handheld Vacuum provides outstanding performance and value.
By choosing the right vacuum for your needs and incorporating it into a regular cleaning schedule, you ensure that every time you pull back the cover, you’re greeted by pristine, clear, and inviting water. It’s a small investment that pays huge dividends in the enjoyment and longevity of your personal oasis.
