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In most cases, it is safe to clean a hot tub with vinegar. You will want to verify that your hot tub manufacturer lists vinegar as a safe cleaning product; however, given that vinegar is chemical-free, cleans, deodorizes, and is safe for people and pets, it is usually a good option. You can use vinegar to clean the hot tub shell, interior and exterior spa surfaces, hot tub jets, hot tub filter, and other parts. It is considered a strong, safe, and natural cleanser that can kill bacteria, remove mold and mildew spores, erase water spots, and remove hard water stains.

If your hot tub is well-maintained, covered tightly, and the water is balanced and sanitized correctly, it can remain unused for up to two weeks without significant issues. Beyond this period, the water quality may start to deteriorate, potentially leading to the growth of algae and bacteria. However, it's crucial to note that this timeline can change due to factors like water temperature, sanitation levels, and the quality of your hot tub cover. Regular maintenance and water testing are essential to ensure the water remains safe and clean during periods of inactivity.

Where you drain a hot tub largely depends on local regulations, but you must not drain chemically treated water where it can damage the environment. Direct the water toward a sanitary sewer drain that will take it to a treatment facility. If your lawn has a dedicated drainage area that’s free from plants and foundations, you can likely drain it there. Avoid storm drains, as the hot tub water will enter waterways and could hurt aquatic life. Likewise, do not pour it out directly on any public land or where it can get into your neighbors’ property. 

If water is left inside the hot tub pump over a cold winter, it could freeze and severely damage the pump, water lines, and jets. That can cause leaks, which require very expensive repairs. Freezing or leftover water can stain and damage the hot tub shell, which leads to replacement. Even in mild climates, leaving sitting water in the tub or pipes for a long period of unuse is a bad idea, since disinfecting chemicals fade and the water can develop bacteria, algae, and other big headaches when it’s time to use the tub again.