Summer is coming, and that means you’ll be spending more time outdoors, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the fresh air. Your hot tub can become the centrepiece to this. However, just because you are using you hot tub regularly and with many different people, it shouldn’t mean you are spending more time maintaining your water. Follow these tips to help keep your water sparkling!  

Hot Tub Etiquette Checklist:

Do: Shower Before

You’ve probably seen the signs at public pools and hot tubs urging everyone to shower before entering. It might seem like overkill, but it is an extremely effective way to keep your water clean. A quick rinse can wash away any body oils, lotions, and debris that could cloud your water and disrupt the balance.

Another little-known fact is that showering before can also reduce that chlorine smell that many people associate with pools and spas. Chlorine only produces that familiar smell when oxidizing contaminants.

Don’t: Bring Food

While a snack in a hot tub might sound fun, we discourage this for several reasons. First, your health. Remember when your mom told you not to go swimming until 30 minutes after eating? Entering the water speeds up your blood flow and can cause discomfort if you are in the middle of digesting a heavy meal.

The second and more obvious reason to avoid eating in a hot tub is the crumbs that inevitably end up in the water, quickly dirtying the hot tub. 

Do: Keep A Clean Swimsuit Handy

Think of your swimsuit as a filter - it holds onto oils, lotions, and detergents from previous uses, all of which end up in your water if you're not careful. Make it a habit to rinse your swimsuit thoroughly after each soak, and don't store it with your gym gear or beachwear. 

Even better, designate a "hot tub only" swimsuit that you wash seperately, without fabric softeners or heavy detergents. And if you have an outdoor shower or hose, a quick rinse before hopping in is an easy extra step that pays off big. 

Don’t: Use Glassware

While a chilled drink is the perfect hot tub companion, glass is not. One slip and you risk dangerous shards in and around your hot tub - something you don't want to deal with. Instead, why not invest in some durable plastic or stanless steel drinkware. You can match the style to your backyard aesthetic. 

Hydration is so important when soaking - so don't skip the water, just keep it safely contained. 

Bonus Tips for Hot Tub Enjoyment This Summer

• Set the mood
• Stick to a water care routine 
• Inform guests of hot tub etiquette

With just a bit of mindfulness and regular maintenance, your hot tub will remain an oasis of relaxation all summer long. So turn up the tunes, grab your towel, and dive into hot tub season worry free.