How Long Should You Soak In A Hot Tub?

Are you thinking about investing in a hot tub this season? Or perhaps you already own one and are wondering how long is best to soak in it, to receive the maximum benefits. Is soaking in a hot tub good for you?  It absolutely is! Consistently soaking in a hot tub provides an excellent source of therapy that promotes better health and well-being. Regular hot tub use relieves aches and pains, improves your cardiovascular health, helps you sleep better and relaxes your mind. The important question is how long should you soak in a hot tub?

How Long Should You Soak In A Hot Tub?

Determining the right amount of time to soak in your hot tub depends on a few different factors:

1. Outside Temperature

   The temperature outside is an important consideration in determining how long you spend in your hot tub.  If its really hot outside, it will take longer for your body to cool, which can lead to overheating. If it’s really cold outside, your body may cool down itself too fast, which might bring on dizziness.

2. Temperature of Your Hot tub

   Most hot tubs do not go past the temperature of 40° Celsius.  Even if you turn down your temp by 2-3 degrees, you can significantly increase the amount of time you spend in your hot tub, safely.

3. Your Health

   If you are in good health there is no need to be concerned with the amount of time you spend in your hot tub.  If you have a heart condition or you are pregnant, it is advised to avoid hot tub use, unless you want to just dip your feet in!

4. Body Depth

   If you choose to sit in your hot tub with the water at your neck level, your body may have a more difficult time adjusting its internal temperature.  You can soak much longer if you sit in the water, up to your chest. The above information gives you the different factors to consider when thinking about how long should you soak in a hot tub, but still doesn’t give you the accurate time in minutes.  It is best to soak between 15-30 minutes at one time. Occasionally, you can go for 45 minutes to 1 hour, but try not to do this too often. Go with your comfort level, the more you use your hot tub, the more you will know the right time to soak, for your body and mind.

Adults Vs. Children

ADULTS

Healthy adults can spend a lot of time soaking in a hot tub without really experiencing any issues.  If you choose to spend an average of 45 minutes per soak, it is advised to take a 15-minute break before you go back in.  This will enable your body to take a small rest and regroup. Make sure to stay hydrated and keep some water close by to replenish. The best thing you can do for yourself is too be in tuned with your body, and get out of your tub if you begin to feel uncomfortable.  

CHILDREN

Kids tend to be the ones that love hot tubs.  The combination of lights, bubbles and jets, is like a big bathtub outside!  It is important to be cautious with any child under 14, as their bodies aren’t able to adjust and cool themselves as quickly as adults.  How long should you soak in your hot tub if you are a child? It is recommended for kids to spend 10-20 minutes at one time, with a lower temperature.  It is best to set the temp to 90 degrees Fahrenheit to keep it comfortable and safe for them. Infants and toddlers must not use hot tubs, not only because of chemicals that are used, but also due to the possibility of an accidental drowning.

What Happens if You Stay In A Hot Tub For Too Long?

Now that we have figured out how long should you soak in a hot tub, its important to outline the dangers of what happens if you soak in your hot tub for too long at one time?  It’s always best to refer to your own body for signals it may send you. Here are some to consider:

Light Headedness or Dizziness

If you start to feel lightheaded or dizzy while you are in your hot tub, this is definitely a warning sign that your body is hotter than your brain is telling you it is.  Immediately get out of your hot tub and cool down for 10-15 minutes before getting back in.

Overheating

A lot of the time we don’t recognize the warning signs of when our body is in overheating mode.  You can prevent this by knowing what signs you should look for; headaches, fatigue, a rapid decrease or increase of your heart rate, a tingling feeling in your skin, and sweating a lot, or not at all.  If you notice any of these signs, you should get out of your tub immediately and relax in a cool, dry area nearby. It’s also important to drink lots of water and if your symptoms continue, call for help.

Nausea

Sometimes when our body cannot process intense heat we can get nauseous. If you do experience this in your hot tub, you should get out and stay hydrated.

Drop in Blood Pressure

Sometimes we may be unaware that our blood pressure is actually decreasing abnormally. Here are some warning signs to be aware of if our blood pressure suddenly drops; fatigue, difficulty in concentration, fainting, blurred vision, and dizziness. It is important to be aware of the above warning signs to make sure that your hot tub sessions are always safe and relaxing.

How Seaway Can Help

How long should you soak in a hot tub is an important question to know all of the answers to, when investing in a hot tub.  At Seaway Pools and Hot Tubs we are happy to help you find the perfect hot tub for you and your family’s needs. We want to make sure everyone who will use it is safe and healthy!  We are here if you have any questions or concerns! Call us at 905.294.8030 or visit https://www.seawaypoolsntubs.com/landing/beachcomber-hot-tubs/