There are so many great reasons to use your hot tub. Some common objectives are to relax, reduce stress, ease joint pain, improve sleep, and more. That said, however useful its therapeutic benefits, it is important not to overuse the hot tub. Too much of a good thing? How could that be? Staying too long in the spa can cause you to overheat. So, is there a magic length of time that is ideal? How long should you stay in the hot tub? The answer to that question depends on some basic considerations. Let’s take a look.

 

The Temperature of the Hot Tub

You will need to experiment with some different temperatures to find your hot tub “sweet spot”. Most people keep their hot tubs between 100°-102°. Some, who prefer it really warm, go up to 104°. For those who like a cooler setting, 98°-100° is satisfactory. 

If the outside temperature is extremely warm, a cooler water temperature may feel more comfortable. In winter, the body cools down faster due to the colder air temperature, so water temperatures in the higher range may be tolerated. 

The higher the water temperature, the shorter your soak time should be. Here are some general lengths of time to soak at various water temperatures:

• 98°-100°- up to 30 minutes
• 100°-102°- 15-20 minutes
• 102°-104- 10-15 minutes

 

Age Factors

Children under the age of 5 should not use the hot tub. Kids’ bodies are smaller and therefore can overheat faster in warm water. Kids over the age of 5 should not stay in 98°-102° water longer than 15 minutes and should be encouraged not to immerse themselves fully, but rather allow their upper bodies to be out of the water the majority of the time. No child under the age of 12 should be unsupervised in the spa. 

Elderly people can be more sensitive to the warm water temperature in a hot tub as well. Enjoying the hot tub at a lower temperature may be healthier for seniors. Start with a shorter soak and see how the body responds. Also, the elderly may be more prone to balance issues and should exercise care to avoid slipping.

 

Health Considerations

People with health issues need to take care not to overdo it in the hot tub. If you have high blood pressure, a heart condition, or are taking certain medications you will want to consult with your physician before using the spa.

Pregnant women should not use a hot tub if the water temperature is over 101° and are advised to limit their soak to less than 10 minutes. 

 

Other Factors

Hot tubs and alcohol do not mix well. In addition, if you have taken any medication that causes drowsiness, using the hot tub may not be wise. Be sure to remember to stay hydrated when enjoying your spa. Keep a bottle of water nearby. And don’t forget that you can take a break, get out, cool down, and get in again after some time has passed!

 

Our hot tubs provide us with so much enjoyment. You can feel your stress drop away after 15 minutes in the warm water and the therapeutic massage of the jets. You can ease after-workout tight muscles, get a better night’s sleep, and even reduce the pain of headaches. If you follow our guidelines for how long you should stay in the hot tub, you can experience a multitude of benefits. Aqua Pools is your go-to source for all hot tub-related supplies. Our professional staff at our two convenient locations are also available to answer all your questions.