Western red cedar is prized for hot tubs because it’s naturally rot‑resistant, aromatic and insulating. Its high oil content repels fungi and insects, making it ideal for outdoor bathing. Cedar also expands slightly when wet, creating a watertight seal without synthetic liners. These qualities help cedar tubs last decades when properly maintained.
Maintaining a cedar hot tub is both an art and a science. Unlike plastic spa shells, wood breathes and responds to temperature and humidity. Water chemistry affects not only bather comfort but also the longevity of the wood and heater components. This guide covers daily, monthly and seasonal care for cedar hot tubs – whether wood‑fired, electric or hybrid – and addresses the common question: Are wood‑fired hot tubs hard to maintain?
At Shym Saunas, we believe a cedar hot tub isn’t just a backyard feature — it’s a lifetime investment in wellbeing. Explore our handcrafted outdoor cedar hot tubs and discover why proper care turns each soak into decades of comfort.
Cedar’s natural resilience doesn’t make it maintenance‑free. Over time, exposure to sun and water causes the wood’s surface oils to evaporate, leading to a silvery patina. You can embrace this rustic look or preserve the original colour with a breathable, water‑borne stain. Never stain or seal the inside of the tub – cedar’s ability to absorb and release moisture keeps joints tight; coatings could trap water and encourage rot.
Want to keep your cedar glowing like new? Our cedar hot tubs are built with premium thermowood that weathers gracefully, whether you prefer the rustic silver or rich reddish tones.
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For tubs with filtration systems (outdoor cedar hot tubs with filtration systems that come with an electric heater or external firewood heater options), drain and refill the water every three to four months. Without filtration (typical of off‑grid wood‑fired tubs), you may need to change water weekly or after 4–10 days depending on use and whether you use salt or chemical treatments. Frequent use and exposure to organic matter (lotions, dirt, leaves) accelerate contamination. Always test water for pH, alkalinity and sanitizer levels before use.
Looking for a low-maintenance soak? Our cedar tubs are compatible with chemical-free sanitation methods like ozone or hydrogen peroxide, letting you enjoy crystal-clear water without chlorine odours.
Many cedar‑tub owners prefer to avoid chlorine and bromine because of their smell and impact on wood. Two effective alternatives are:
If you prefer chemical sanitation, use small doses of chlorine or bromine and test regularly to keep levels balanced. A good sparkle agent added monthly improves water clarity.
Our cedar hot tubs come with straightforward maintenance guidelines and durable construction, so even deep cleans feel simple. Build your perfect spa routine with a model designed for longevity.
Wood‑fired tubs appeal to people seeking an off‑grid, tactile experience. They require no electricity or plumbing – just a stove and firewood. Maintenance differences include:
Without pumps or filters, water in a wood‑fired tub should be changed more often. Drain after 48–60 hours of use and leave 1–2 inches of water to keep the cedar staves swollen. When ready to refill, drain the remaining water, scrub the interior with mild soap and a long‑handled brush, rinse and add fresh water.
After each firing, remove ashes with an ash scoop and check the firebox for creosote buildup. Keep the chimney clear to ensure good draft. Use dry, seasoned wood to reduce smoke and soot.
Wood‑fired tubs heat more slowly but are rewarding. Expect heat‑up times of 2–4 hours depending on water volume and ambient conditions. Stir the water occasionally with a paddle to distribute heat evenly. Always check water temperature before entering; 38 °C (100 °F) is comfortable.
Compared to electric spas, wood‑fired tubs require a bit more hands‑on effort: lighting fires, adding wood, mixing water and draining more frequently. However, maintenance tasks like water chemistry, filter cleaning and interior scrubbing are similar. Because there is no pump or electronics, there are fewer mechanical parts to fail. Many owners enjoy the ritual of tending the fire and find the maintenance part of the charm. With proper water management and hygiene, wood‑fired tubs can be just as clean and enjoyable as electric models.
Love the ritual of tending a fire? Explore our wood-fired cedar tubs, crafted for off-grid retreats and cabins. Designed for easy heating and authentic bathing, they bring a Nordic spa experience to your backyard. We offer these options: hot tubs with an external firewood heater or an internal firewood heater and those with a filtration system + an external firewood heater.
In colder months, cedar tubs require extra care:
Don’t let winter stop your soak. Our insulated covers and optional heating upgrades keep your cedar tub ready year-round — even on frosty nights.
Shym Saunas & Spas offers a range of wood‑fired and hybrid cedar hot tubs that pair old‑world charm with modern convenience. For example:
Each of these products is crafted from premium materials and designed to deliver long‑term reliability. Investing in quality equipment reduces maintenance headaches and enhances your enjoyment.
With a filtration system, change water every 3–4 months. Without filtration (e.g., wood‑fired tubs), change weekly or whenever the water becomes cloudy.
Yes. Leave 1–2 inches of water to keep the cedar staves swollen and prevent shrinkage. Drain and refill before your next soak.
Hydrogen peroxide (27 %) and ozone are effective at killing bacteria without leaving residues. If you use chlorine or bromine, keep levels low and monitor pH.
Staining the exterior is optional; it preserves the original colour and protects against UV degradation. Do not stain the interior.
They require manual heating and more frequent water changes but have fewer mechanical parts. With proper hygiene and stove maintenance, they’re no harder to maintain than electric tubs.
Regular maintenance is the key to enjoying your cedar hot tub for decades. By changing water regularly, balancing pH, sanitising effectively and using gentle cleaning methods, you preserve the beauty and integrity of the wood. Chemical‑free options like hydrogen peroxide and ozone let you soak without chlorine or bromine, while wood‑fired tubs offer an off‑grid, ritualistic experience that’s not as hard to maintain as it seems. Whether you own a compact two‑person tub or a spacious family barrel, proper care ensures each soak is clean, safe and restorative.
At Shym Saunas & Spas, we view saunas and hot tubs as spaces to connect and unwind. Our cedar and spruce models are handcrafted from premium thermowood and designed for easy maintenance, blending Scandinavian simplicity with enduring durability. Invest in quality, follow the guidelines above, and savour the moments that matter.
