Care & Maintenance
Made in the USA Since 1992
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR SPA COVER
Clean your spa cover once a month, or more often in dusty, damp, or high-use environments, using a mild solution of dish soap and warm water. Avoid harsh cleaners, as these can degrade the vinyl or Sunbrella® fabric and shorten the life of the cover. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Always remove standing water, debris, or snow buildup to prevent unnecessary weight and wear. If your cover develops a mildew smell, clean it more frequently and allow it to air dry completely with the cover off.
Regular maintenance not only keeps your cover looking good, it also helps it last longer and function properly.
How to condition your vinyl cover
To maintain and protect your vinyl spa cover, apply 303 Protectant once a month. This helps replenish the original UV protection that can wear away from sun exposure and weather. For best results and to keep your warranty valid, only use 303 Protectant—other conditioners may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the vinyl and void your warranty.
How to condition your Sunbrella® cover
After deep cleaning your Sunbrella® cover, we recommend reapplying 303 High Tech Fabric Guard to restore the fabric’s water repellency, as heavy washing can reduce or remove the original protective finish. For detailed cleaning instructions, visit sunbrella.com/clean-sunbrella-marine-upholstery. While diluted bleach is sometimes used for tough stains like mildew, it should be used with caution, as it may weaken sewing threads or damage non-Sunbrella® materials. Avoid bleach unless absolutely necessary.
What causes excessive discoloring and texture changes to your cover
Do Not underestimate the power of chemicals. For example, improper chlorine and PH levels can cause damage to your cover and spa. Over-chlorination causes burning of the cover bottom material and deterioration of the thread. Some color change to the cover bottom material is normal, but excessive discoloring and texture changes are a sign of improper chemical levels and will void the warranty. Maintaining a proper chemical balance will help prolong the life of your cover. Ask your spa dealer about the appropriate chemicals for your spa.
How to prevent your cover materials from overheating
To avoid damage from excessive heat buildup, follow these simple guidelines:
- Never place objects (like towels, pool toys, or patio furniture) on top of your spa cover. This can trap heat and cause the cover material to warp or the foam cores to melt.
- Keep the cover vented when temperatures are high. If your hot tub is in direct sun, consider slightly propping one side open during the hottest part of the day (when not in use) to allow heat to escape.
- Use a protective cover cap or UV shield if your spa is in full sun. These help reflect UV rays and reduce heat absorption.
- Regularly inspect the cover for signs of heat damage, such as bubbling, soft spots, or warping.
What to do if your cover puddles
If your cover develops a puddle on top, you can prolong the cover’s life by unzipping it, removing and flipping the foam core. Be careful not to damage the vapor barrier of the foam cores. Replacement cores are also available for purchase.
Need more help?
Visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions, or contact us directly. We’re here to help.