Sitting in a hot tub is one of the most relaxing and healthy activities you can do. The warm water relaxes your mind, improves circulation, and loosens up your tight muscles. If you’re a new hot tub owner or thinking about purchasing a hot tub, you’re likely wondering how long you can sit in a hot tub and what’s the optimal time to sit in the hot tub to reap the benefits. Being aware of the best length of time you can sit in your hot tub can help you make the most out of your experience.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to determine how long to soak in your hot tub and the potential dangers of soaking for too long.
Soaking Factors
There isn’t a hard and fast rule for how long is too long in a hot tub. However, there are some important factors you should consider.
Temperature
Temperature is usually the leading factor in how long you can safely soak in a hot tub. Hot tub water temperature preference is different for each user. Some prefer a cooler 98-degrees while others prefer the max temperature of 104-degrees. Remember, the higher the temperature, the less time you should spend in the tub. If you prefer longer soak sessions, turn the temperature down lower.
Depth
How high the water comes up to on your body will also impact your soak length. If you’re sitting so that your body is covered up to the neckline, your body has to work harder to regulate its temperature. To soak for longer, sit in a seat that exposes your body from the chest up.
Health
If you have certain health conditions like are pregnant or have a heart condition, you should avoid using a hot tub or use it sparingly in short sessions. If you have one of these conditions, consult with your doctor before using a hot tub.
Environment
External temperature can also play a part in how long you can safely sit in a hot tub. If it’s hot outside, your body will overheat faster. Conversely, if it’s really cold, your body will cool off very quickly and can cause you to become dizzy. Consider these factors before you get in for a soak.
Avoid These Dangers
Generally speaking, hot tubs are very safe but there are some safety precautions to keep in mind.
Overheating
The primary danger of sitting in a hot tub for too long is you can overheat. If this happens, you’ll experience symptoms of hypothermia if it’s cold out. Other changes in blood flow to the brain can also cause vomiting or nausea.
Dizziness
Staying in the hot tub for too long can cause you to feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up to get out. This feeling usually subsides quickly but can be dangerous if someone slips and falls.
Burns
Just like sitting at the pool, you have to protect your skin if you’re sitting out in the sun. Your back and shoulders will be the most exposed to the sun when you sit in a hot tub, so be sure to cover those with a high SPF sunscreen.
How Long Can I Soak?
The best rule of thumb is to soak only 15 to 30 minutes. Sometimes a longer soak is safe but you should consider the factors we laid out above. The best way to gauge how long you should sit in a hot tub is by listening to your body. If you feel too overheated, light-headed, or nauseous get out of the hot tub.
For more information on the many benefits of soaking in a hot tub and how to stay safe while using one, download our free hot tub buyer’s guide.