Backyard Blogging.

Thinking about buying a hot tub? Or, perhaps you already have one, and you’d like your children to use it. In this article, we look at how to hot tub safely with children.

How Old is Old Enough?

It’s generally not recommended that infants and toddlers get into a hot tub. First, babies’ skin is very thin, and they are more susceptible to overheating. What’s more young ones under the age of two really may not enjoy the hot tub, and the jets might scare them or worry them.

Babies should also stay out of the hot tub because they are too young to vocalize any discomfort such as overheating or dehydration.

Most experts say children under five should stay out of a hot tub.

You also want to be careful with the height of the child. It’s a good idea to keep kids out of the hot tub until they can stand on the bottom with their head completely out of the water.

How Long Can Kids Soak?

If you have young children who are tall enough to soak in the hot tub, they shouldn’t use it for more than five minutes in one setting, especially if the hot tub is set at 104 degrees.

You can drop the temperature to 98 degrees, and they can soak longer. But keep the limit to no more than 15 minutes at one time.

For safety, consider having your youngest kids sit on the seats instead of going all the way under, especially if the jets are on.

Stay Hydrated

While soaking and enjoying the warm water therapy and the massaging jets, you want to think about hydration.

It’s a good idea to keep a plastic or non-breakable water bottle nearby. Keep your kiddos hydrated while they soak with you. If they start to feel nauseous, dizzy, or sleepy, they should get out the hot tub immediately, though, and have a big drink of water.

Keep the Hot Tub Clean

Make sure you are taking proper care of your hot tub and that your chemical and pH level are balanced. It’s important to keep the hot tub clean and sanitary.

You don’t want any bacteria to grow in your hot tub and spread disease. Make sure all kids stay out of the hot tub if they are sick with diarrhea.

One More Safety Tip

When you aren’t using your hot tub, keep the cover on it. Locking it on is an added bonus. You’ll find high quality spa covers that lock into place.

If your cover doesn’t come with a lock, you can buy one separately.

Finally, always have adult supervision when children are using your hot tub. This is just like you would with a swimming pool water watcher. An adult should maintain constant visual contact with kids in the hot tub. Better yet, an adult should get in the hot tub with them.

To Conclude

Hot tubbing with older children and teens can be quite rewarding. The hot tub is a great place for open communication and family time.

When using your hot tub with kids, here are a few final tips on how to hot tub safely:

• Always supervise minors in the hot tub.
• Establish rules. Make sure they understand the consequences and safety risks. You can even post the rules by the hot tub.
• Include the rule that hot tubs aren’t swimming pools, and they shouldn’t play under the water.
• Stay hydrated.
• Take a break from the spa, get out, and cool off regularly.
• Install hot tub steps and hot tub safety rails to keep everyone safe getting in and out.

Have more questions? Contact us today or stop by one of our three locations!