What Temperature Should I Set My Hot Tub?
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If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the temperature control on your hot tub, wondering what the perfect number is, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. It’s not just about hopping in and cranking the heat. It’s about finding that sweet spot where comfort, safety, and relaxation all come together. Let’s break it down.
The Goldilocks Zone: Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold
For most people, the ideal hot tub temperature hovers around 100–104°F. The reason? It’s warm enough to feel soothing without being overwhelming. Fun fact: 104°F is actually the maximum temperature allowed by law in most places for safety reasons.
I like to keep mine set at about 101°F. It’s just warm enough to melt away stress after a long day but doesn’t feel like I’m baking myself. My neighbor swears by 98°F, saying it feels closer to a warm bath. To each their own, right?
What About A Hot Tub at Cooler Temps?
If you’re in the mood for something a bit different. Maybe a dip on a hot summer day. You can drop the temperature to 85–90°F. It’s not technically a "hot" tub at that point, but it can still feel refreshing. I tried this once during a backyard BBQ, and it became the ultimate hangout spot. It’s also a safer option for kids, who shouldn’t soak in high heat for too long.
Safety First: Knowing Your Limits
Now, I’ve gotta throw this in. Don’t overdo it with the heat. Prolonged soaks at higher temperatures (like 104°F) can dehydrate you or even make you feel dizzy. If you’re someone who enjoys a glass of wine or two while soaking, like my friend Karen, it’s even more important to stay mindful. Water + wine + heat = a recipe for feeling woozy.
For kids and pregnant women, lower temperatures are better. Experts often recommend sticking around 98°F for them. It might not feel as toasty, but it’s worth it to stay safe.
Adjusting Based on the Seasons
One thing I’ve learned is that your perfect hot tub temperature can change with the seasons. In the winter, I crank mine up to 103°F. There’s something magical about sitting in the warm water while snow falls around you. In the summer, though, I dial it back to 100°F or sometimes even lower, so it feels less intense in the heat.
If you’ve got people coming over, it’s always good to ask what they’re comfortable with. Some folks love it hot, others not so much. My brother, for example, can’t handle anything over 100°F, so we always compromise when he visits.
Test It Out for Yourself
So what is the perfect temperature? At the end of the day, the "perfect" temperature really depends on what feels good to you. Start at 100°F and experiment from there. Don’t be afraid to tweak it up or down a degree or two until you find what works best for you and whoever you’re sharing the tub with.
3 comments
Can confirm, not cleaning the filter often enough was my downfall. Had no idea how much gunk could build up until I pulled mine out
Love how you broke it down so simply—spa maintenance always seemed super intimidating, but now I feel like I’ve got a handle on it!
Oh wow, I didn’t know not shocking the spa often enough could lead to odors like that! Definitely adding this to my weekly routine now—thanks for the heads-up!