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Whether you have just purchased a new hot tub or you’re a long-time owner, there a few things you should know to get the most out of your home spa experience. Consider these dos and don’ts:
Dos
Do Shower Before Entering
Just like entering a pool, it’s always a good idea to take a quick shower before hopping in the hot tub, particularly if you are the one doing the maintenance! Even though it may seem harmless to ignore this step, without a rinse, you will introduce extra contaminants into the water. The cleaner you are, the less chemical you’ll need to treat the water and it will also extend the time between water changes. If you suffer from dry skin, you should shower after using the hot tub as well.
Do Limit Your Soaking Time
As lovely as those jets are, it can be easy to stay in and indulge in the water for longer than we should. Try to limit yourself to staying in the hot tub no longer than fifteen minutes if your hot tub has very hot water (104F/40C). If the temperature is 100F, you can stay in for up to thirty minutes. Take a quick five or ten minute cooldown, then hop back in. Note that these recommendations apply to healthy adults. If you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, or any other medical conditions, ALWAYS consult your physician before you soak.
Do Ventilate Your Hot Tub
Without proper ventilation, gases from the spa will cause irritation to your eyes and throat over time and will cause the soft surface inside your hot tub such as pillows or the hot tub cover to degrade. Outdoor tubs just need to breathe periodically, so if you are not using the tub at least 2 times a week, just be sure to flip open the cover for 15 minutes twice a week. If your hot tub is located indoors, it must be adequately ventilated. Without proper ventilation indoors, the high humidity levels can also spell trouble.
Do Limit Your Intake of Alcohol
Alcohol may seem like a great thing to pair with soaking time, but it’s important to limit the amount you consume. Since alcohol can make you drowsy, it is never recommended to consume before or during usage of a hot tub. Alcohol’s effect is increased when you have a higher body temperature, which is a natural effect of soaking in the spa. A couple of glasses of wine can easily feel like you’ve drunk the whole bottle. If you have an elevated level of alcohol in your system, do not use your hot tub.
Don’ts
Don’t Get in With an Open Sore
Even if you have a minor cut, if you or anyone has an open sore, the hot tub should be avoided until the sore completely heals.
Don’t Use During Storms
Although it might seem like a good idea at the time, getting into your hot tub during a severe storm can be dangerous. Avoid using when the weather is stormy.
Don’t Raise the Temperature Above 104 degrees
The temperature of your hot tub should never reach more than 104 degrees. If it does this can cause an unsafe environment since it can place a significant amount of pressure on your cardiovascular system.
Don’t Let Sand or Dirt Enter Tub
Sand and dirt can quickly build up and clog the filter. Ensure that your feet are clean before entering and always secure the hot tub with a spa cover when not in use.
Before you hop into your hot tub next, give some consideration to each of these dos and don’ts to keep the maintenance to a minimum, have fun, stay safe, and make the most out of your home spa experience.
