13 Hot Tub Rules for Guests: How to Enjoy Soaking in a Hot Tub

Get the most out of your hot tub experience with these essential rules for guests. Ensure safety, hygiene, and a fantastic time for everyone.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just having friends over to unwind, owning a hot tub is a great way to socialize.

​For a comprehensive guide on selecting the right attire for your Jacuzzi sessions, including what to wear, what to avoid, and essential safety tips, visit Jacuzzi Attire: Wear, Avoid, and Safety.​

Rules for Hosts

1. Clear Communication: Clearly communicate the hot tub rules to your guests. This could be done through a welcome note, signage near the hot tub, or during check-in.
2. Safety First: Ensure all safety rules are highlighted. This includes no diving, supervising children, and avoiding alcohol or drugs.
3. Hygiene Matters: Emphasize the importance of hygiene. Encourage guests to shower before use and avoid bringing food or drinks into the hot tub area.
4. Usage Guidelines: Provide guidelines on the proper use of the hot tub. This includes limiting the session to a reasonable time, shutting off the hot tub after use, and closing the lid securely after use.
5. Etiquette Expectations: Set expectations for hot tub etiquette. This includes respecting others’ privacy, keeping noise down, and cleaning up after use.

Usage Rules

1. Limit Your Time: It’s recommended to limit your hot tub session to 15-30 minutes at a time. Prolonged exposure can lead to overheating or dehydration.
2. Shut Off After Use: Always turn off the hot tub when not in use. This can help save energy and prolong the life of the hot tub.
3. Secure the Lid: After each use, secure the lid properly. This helps maintain the water temperature and prevents debris from entering the hot tub.
4. Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain the water quality, filters, and overall condition of the hot tub. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all users.

Hygiene Rules

1. Shower Before Use: It’s important to shower before entering a hot tub to remove any dirt, sweat, or lotions that could contaminate the water.
2. No Food or Drinks: Do not bring food or drinks into the hot tub area to prevent spills and potential water contamination.
3. Proper Swimwear: Always wear clean swimwear. Avoid wearing regular clothes as they can introduce detergents and dirt into the water.
4. Regularly Clean the Hot Tub: Ensure the hot tub is cleaned, and the water is treated regularly to maintain a healthy environment.

🔧 Hot Tub Maintenance Rules 💧

Proper maintenance ensures clean, safe, and energy-efficient hot tub operation. Follow these guidelines to protect the tub and your health.

Example: Always keep the hot tub covered when not in use.

🛑 Chemical Safety

Never add chemicals without approval. Improper use can:

• Damage equipment
• Cause skin irritation
• Create dangerous fumes

💡 Tip: Ask staff for chemical test strips if unsure about water balance.

👃 Water Quality Check

Cloudy water or strong odors indicate problems:

• Cloudiness = Possible bacterial growth
• Chlorine smell = Contaminants present
• Foam = Soap/detergent residue

❌ Do not enter if water appears unsafe

🌡️ Temperature & Chemistry

Only trained staff should adjust:

• Ideal temp: 100-104°F (38-40°C)
• pH should be 7.2-7.8
• Sanitizer levels must be maintained

⚠️ Improper settings can breed bacteria or damage equipment.

📋 Guest Maintenance Checklist

1

Rinse off sand/dirt before entering (use outdoor shower if available)

2

Report any issues immediately (error codes, strange noises)

3

Secure cover properly after use (listen for the seal click)

4

Remove all personal items (towels can grow mold under covers)

♻️ Energy Efficiency Tips

⏱️ Cover Matters

A properly fitted cover reduces heat loss by 75% and prevents 90% of evaporation.

🌙 Nighttime Use

Soaking after sunset reduces heat loss to cold air (saves 15-20% energy).

🔄 Filter Care

Clean filters monthly – clogged filters make pumps work 30% harder.

Well-maintained hot tubs = Better experiences for everyone! Thank you for your cooperation.

Enforcing hot tub rules:

• Displaying the hot tub rules in a prominent location, such as near the hot tub or in the guest room
•  Providing a copy of the regulations to guests upon check-in and reviewing them with the guests in person
•  Installing cameras or other monitoring devices to ensure that guests comply with the rules
•  Providing reminders to guests about the rules in a friendly and respectful manner
•  Having a process for addressing rule violations and taking appropriate action, such as removing guests from the hot tub or even evicting them from the property in extreme cases.

Updating hot tub rules:

• Changes in the property or environment, such as adding new features or changing the landscaping
•  New regulations or guidelines from government or industry authorities
•  Changes in the needs or preferences of guests
•  Feedback from guests, such as complaints or suggestions for improvement.

Promoting hot tub safety:

• Providing a safety checklist or guidelines for guests to review before using the hot tub
•  Posting safety signs near the hot tub, such as “No Diving” or “Shower Before Using.”
•  Providing safety equipment, such as a first-aid kit or life preservers, nearby
•  Providing instructions for using the hot tub safely and properly
•  We educate guests on the risks of using the hot tub, such as overheating or slipping on wet surfaces.

Airbnb Hot Tub Rules

1. Airbnb’s Guidelines: Airbnb has specific guidelines for amenities like hot tubs. Hosts are required to provide safety features and instructions for their use.
2. Host’s House Rules: Each host can set rules for the hot tub. These rules should be clearly communicated to the guests before their stay.
3. Respect the Rules: As a guest, it is important to respect the host’s rules. Failure to do so can lead to penalties, including claims on the security deposit.
4. Communication is Key: Don’t hesitate to ask the host if you’re unsure about any rules. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a pleasant stay.
5. Review the Listing: Before booking, review the listing carefully. Make sure you’re comfortable with the rules set by the host.

How can I effectively communicate hot tub rules to my guests?

1. Welcome Note: Include the hot tub rules in your welcome note or guidebook. Ensure it’s one of the first things they see when arriving.
2. Signage: Consider putting up a sign near the hot tub that clearly lists the rules. This serves as a constant reminder for guests.
3. Verbal Communication: Verbally review the rules with your guests upon arrival. This allows you to emphasize important points and answer any questions they might have.
4. Digital Copy: If you’re communicating with your guests digitally (e.g., email, Airbnb messaging), send them a copy of the hot tub rules. This gives them the chance to review the rules at their own pace.
5. Rule Highlights: Highlight the most important rules, such as safety precautions, to draw attention to them.
6. Clear and Concise: Keep the rules clear and concise. Avoid using complex language or jargon that might confuse your guests.
7. Positive Tone: Frame the rules in a positive tone. Instead of focusing on what not to do, emphasize what they should do for a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience.

CDC Guidelines for Hot Tubs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidelines for the safe and healthy use of hot tubs:

1. Heed Hot Tub Rules: Don’t enter a hot tub if you have diarrhea, don’t swallow hot tub water, and shower with soap before entering the hot tub.
2. Observe Limits: If posted, observe the maximum allowable number of bathers. Children under 5 should not use hot tubs.
3. Check the Water: The water temperature should not exceed 104°F (40°C). Test for adequate free chlorine (3–10 ppm) or bromine (4–8 ppm) and pH (7.2–7.8) levels using hot tub test strips.
4. Talk to Hot Tub Owners/Staff: Ask about the health inspector’s grade for the hot tub after its last inspection and whether chlorine and pH levels are checked at least twice daily.