Steam rising, cold air on your cheeks, hot bubbles everywhere else. A soak in your hot tub in winter might be the best one all year. But cold weather throws a few curveballs, like icy covers, slippery patios, and that brutal dash back inside. Whether you have an in-ground spa or a hot tub, these winter hot tub safety tips keep things relaxing from the first step in to the last step out.
Your year-round basics, like clean, properly sanitized water, still apply. These five tips cover the extras winter adds.
1. Clear the Snow Before You Lift the Cover
Snow and ice on your cover have one goal: sliding straight into your clean water. Brush it all off first, then lift. If the cover is icy, put on winter gloves. Frozen vinyl and wet hands are not a fun combo.
2. Set Out Your Robe and Slippers Before You Get In
Getting in is easy. Getting out of a hot tub during winter is where it stings. Before you soak, put a dry towel or robe within arm’s reach. Set it on a chair instead of the damp ground, or tuck it in a waterproof bag so it stays dry. Add slippers or water shoes, and make sure everyone soaking with you has their own setup. Want bonus warmth? Add one of these outdoor space heaters near your hot tub.
3. Watch Your Step on Icy Surfaces
Wet feet plus a frozen patio is a wipeout waiting to happen. Before you get in, clear your path to the door. Then wear shoes or slippers with real grip both ways, and take the dash back inside slower than you want to.
4. Keep It at 100°F for 15 Minutes
When you use a hot tub in winter, cold air makes it tempting to crank the heat and stay forever. Don’t. Hot tub water should never go above 104°F, and in winter, it’s smart to go even lower. Your head and shoulders feel chilly, and that can trick you into thinking your body is cooler than it really is.
On cold nights, keep the water at 100°F max and your soak to 15 minutes max. That rule is the backbone of winter hot tub safety. Don’t trust the control panel alone. Check the real temperature with a floating thermometer.
Feeling dizzy, sleepy, or lightheaded? Get out slowly and cool down. If you’re pregnant, take medication, or have a health condition, check with your doctor before soaking.
5. Wear a Beanie (Seriously)
It looks a little funny, but a knit hat keeps your head warm while the rest of you stays in the heat, which helps your body regulate its temperature. Bonus: it makes for a great photo.
Make Your Backyard the Coziest Spot on the Block
Winter hot tub safety comes down to a little prep: clear the cover, set out your gear, mind the ice, keep it at 100°F, and grab a beanie. Do that, and your hot tub during winter becomes your favorite way to spend a cold night. Want to make the most of your 15 minutes? Try these easy hot tub exercises. Ready to bring friends? Here’s how to throw a fall or winter pool party.
Dreaming of a Spa of Your Own?
Blue Haven designs custom spas built for every season. Start designing your backyard spa today! Not sure where to start? Browse these gunite spa shapes for inspiration or check out our Pinterest board for more cozy spa ideas. Want more ideas for enjoying your backyard all year? Join the Backyard Blueprint for our monthly newsletter (we aren’t spammy, fun stuff only).
