Can You Put Pool Shock in an Inflatable Hot Tub?

Ever looked at your inflatable spa and thought, “Hmm, a splash of pool shock should do the trick?” You’re not alone. Lots of hot tub owners wonder the same thing.

The short answer? No — pool shock is too harsh and can damage your inflatable hot tub. But don’t worry, there are much safer options designed for smaller, high-heat tubs. Stick around to learn the difference, avoid costly mistakes, and keep your spa safe, clean, and family-friendly.

The Short Answer: Pool Shock vs. Hot Tub Shock

Before you grab that tub of chemicals, it’s worth knowing the difference between pool shock and the sanitiser designed for hot tubs. They might sound similar, but they behave very differently in small, heated spas.

Understanding the Key Difference

Pool Shock (Calcium Hypochlorite or "Cal-Hypo")

Pool shock is a powerful, unstabilised chlorine treatment. It’s built for big pools with thousands of litres of water. That means it needs high doses to work effectively.

The problem? Inflatable hot tubs hold far less water, and their soft vinyl walls can’t handle such concentrated chemicals. On top of that, pool shock loses effectiveness in the hotter temperatures of a spa.

In short: great for pools, terrible for hot tubs.

Hot Tub Shock (Di-Chlor or Non-Chlorine Shock)

Hot tub shock, on the other hand, is formulated for small, heated environments. It comes in two main varieties:

• Chlorine-based (Di-chlor) – powerful and effective, great for a deep clean.

• Non-chlorine shock (Potassium peroxymonosulphate) – a gentler oxidiser that breaks down oils, lotions, and organic waste without adding more chlorine.

Both are designed for spas, making them safe for the vinyl, the filters, and the people using them.

Why Using Pool Shock is Not Recommended

If you’re still tempted to use pool shock in your inflatable hot tub, let’s look at the risks. Spoiler: they outweigh any convenience.

Chemical Overconcentration and Damage

Because pool shock is so strong, adding even a small amount to an inflatable spa can damage the vinyl lining, seals, and components. Think cracks, leaks, and a much shorter lifespan for your hot tub.

Water Chemistry and Safety Issues

Hot tubs rely on a delicate chemical balance. Pool shock throws this completely out of sync.

Too much chlorine can irritate skin, sting your eyes, and even affect your lungs. Too little? Bacteria and algae can take over. Neither sounds like a relaxing soak.

What to Use Instead: Proper Shocking for Your Inflatable Hot Tub

So, what’s the safer choice? Products made specifically for hot tubs. Let’s break down when and how to shock your inflatable spa properly.

Why and When to Shock Your Hot Tub

The Purpose of Shocking

Shocking your spa isn’t just about keeping the water clear. It also:

• Breaks down organic waste like sweat, lotions, and body oils.

• Reactivates your sanitiser (chlorine or bromine).

• Clears up cloudy or murky water after heavy use.

Recommended Frequency

As a rule of thumb, shock your hot tub once a week, and always after heavy use (like a family gathering or kids’ splash session).

The Different Types of Hot Tub Shock

Chlorine Shock for Hot Tubs

This is Di-chlor, a concentrated but spa-safe form of chlorine. Perfect for a “deep clean” after the water has had a workout.

Non-Chlorine Shock

This is an oxidiser rather than a sanitiser. It doesn’t add more chlorine to the water, making it great for regular maintenance. It’s also gentler on the skin and allows you to hop back in sooner.

A Complete Inflatable Hot Tub Chemical Guide

To keep your inflatable spa safe, you’ll need more than just shock treatments. Here’s your chemical essentials kit.

The Essential Chemicals You Need

Sanitiser (Chlorine or Bromine)

Your hot tub’s first line of defence. Chlorine granules/tablets are common, but bromine is gentler and more stable in hot water.

pH Balancers (pH Increaser and Decreaser)

Balanced pH = comfortable water and effective sanitiser. Too high or too low, and you’ll either get stinging eyes or weak chlorine.

Alkalinity Increaser

Think of alkalinity as the “shock absorber” for pH. It prevents wild swings that can make your hot tub unpredictable.

Calcium Hardness Increaser

Too little calcium and your inflatable spa’s components can corrode. Too much, and you’ll get scaling. A healthy balance protects your tub in the long run.

Step-by-Step Water Maintenance Routine

Testing the Water

Use simple test strips to check levels at least twice a week. Keep an eye on pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser.

The Right Order to Add Chemicals

Adding chemicals in the wrong order is a common mistake. Follow this sequence:

1. Alkalinity increaser

2. pH adjustment

3. Sanitiser (chlorine or bromine)

4. Shock treatment (as needed)

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Pool Shock in Hot Tubs

So, can you use pool shock in an inflatable hot tub? No — it’s a fast track to damaged vinyl, broken filters, and unsafe water.

Instead, stick with hot tub-specific chemicals. They’re designed for smaller spas, safer for your family, and will keep your inflatable hot tub sparkling clean without the headaches.

Your spa should be about relaxation, not repairs — so treat it with the right care, and it’ll reward you with years of bubbling bliss.