If you have a jetted tub I am sure you have had this happen, you  know the brown flakes that show up when you turn it on. Your jetted tub or some of you may know them as a whirlpool bath or Jacuzzi tub is a haven for bacteria or mold, these grow in your warm damp pipes and can make you sick. Since the jetted tub is not filled all the time with hot water  and does not get chemical treatments like say your hot tub out back, they have to be cleaned so here are a few steps to make sure your tub is free from bacteria.

First you will want to check your manufactures instructions to make sure you do not use anything that will harm your tub.

Next you will want to fill the tub to about 3 inches above the jets with HOT water, turn off the induction valve (check manufactures instructions on how to do this) then add about 1/4 cup of low foaming disinfectant (Cascade) powder detergent and 1/2 cup of bleach to the water.

Set the jets to the highest pressure and run them for about 10-15 minutes, once that is done drain the tub and refill with COLD water and let the jets run another 10 minutes to rinse.

Drain the tub then wipe it out with a clean soft cloth.

Repeat this process once a month.

Here are some other tips and warnings to keep your tub in top shape.

Do not start the jets unless you have them covered with water, failure to do so can result in motor damage. Do not use bubble bath this could lead to a bathroom full of bubbles, to the kids this could be fun but not a mess anyone wants to clean up, also do not use bath oils as this can leave a residue in the pipes.

Keep in mind these are only suggestions, your instructions should also have information on keeping your tub and pipes clean.