Studies on this topic agree that people who use their spa daily have less pain in their muscles and joints, they claim to have more energy, get better, deeper sleep, and some even reported minor weight loss. There are many ways to use your spa daily to benefit your body and mind.

Benefits of Everyday Use

Relaxation and stress relief

Using a hot tub every day can help you loosen up and be prepared for your day or wind down after a busy day of work. A hot tub is perfect for forgetting life’s stresses and enjoying warm water temperatures.

Hot tubs provide the ideal environment to promote relaxation and stress relief. A hot tub’s warm water, calming waterfall, and mood lighting all encourage you to take a deep breath and forget your worries.

Muscle and joint pain relief

Having your hot tub is like having a personal masseuse to cater to your needs. Anytime your back aches, your neck hurts, or you feel worn out, step into your spa and enjoy its powerful jet massages.

Studies show massage therapy relieves and heals sore muscles. Hot tubs have strategically placed jet massages to target your back, neck, shoulder, and leg muscles. Bullfrog Spas’ JetPak Therapy System even provides interchangeable jets so you can target the unique muscles that need relief and recovery that day.

Higher quality sleep

Hot tub use is also associated with better sleep. After sitting in a hot tub, your body temperature increases with the water. Once leaving the hot tub, your body temperature decreases which can help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Not only can a hot tub help you physically it can also help you mentally by putting your mind at ease so you are able to fall asleep peacefully.

If you want to learn more about how a spa can help you sleep, check out this blog post How to Get Better Sleep With a Hot Tub

Why Daily Self Care is Good for you

Maybe it feels a bit like a trend, but practicing self-care can be critical to creating a peaceful life. Utilizing a hot tub daily contributes to your mental and physical health in positive ways that we don’t always consider. In addition to the above-mentioned physical benefits, time spent soaking in your hot tub gives you an opportunity for calm reflection. It can often be an ideal intimate setting for essential conversations between family members.

When soaking in a hot tub becomes part of your daily routine, your benefits increase. Try it for 30 days and see for yourself!

When is it not okay to use a hot tub every day?

While sitting in your hot tub regularly can be exceptionally beneficial, there are times when it’s important to proceed with caution and utilize the advice of your primary care physician to ensure everyone’s safety. Pregnancy is an example of one of these times.

Doctors urge pregnant women to use caution. If you use a hot tub, be sure the temperature is below 101 degrees Fahrenheit, and be careful not to allow your body temperature to rise.

Small children should use caution and always be supervised by an adult. And if you have a severe medical condition that might be worsened or exacerbated by using a hot tub, it’s not a great idea to use one.

Bottom Line

If you are wanting to use a hot tub every day, do it! Your body will thank you. If you don’t have a hot tub, now is the perfect time to design yours!

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You can identify it by red, itchy bumps that are sometimes filled with pus and may resemble an acne breakout, but maybe on a larger scale than usual. These bumps are sometimes (but not always) located on or near hair follicles, especially if you have recently shaved or removed hair using other methods.

This rash can show up anytime from a few hours to a few days after exposure. Hot tub folliculitis can affect any area of the body exposed to the water, especially any place where water was trapped for long periods, such as inside swimwear. Other symptoms include low-grade fever and patches of skin that are swollen, red, or particularly itchy.

Treatment Options

A few treatment options are warm compresses, applying creams or lotions like Benadryl for itching, or antibacterial like Neosporin to avoid secondary infections.

Alternatively, you can try applying apple cider vinegar directly to the affected area or soak in a bath with it.

The good news is that generally, except in rare cases, hot tub folliculitis clears up on its own, without medical intervention. If your skin is healthy, the bacteria that cause the condition can’t survive for long and will die without any assistance at all. If it doesn’t go away on its own, we recommend that you make an appointment with your doctor to rule out anything more serious.

How to Prevent Hot Tub Folliculitis

Once it’s gone, you’re going to want to prevent a reoccurrence of the experience, so here are a few ways you can avoid hot tub folliculitis in the future:

• Immediately remove swimwear after sitting in your spa
• Shower and wash with soap after using the hot tub
• Wash swimwear after every use
• Avoid shaving or hair removal immediately before hot tub use
• Use test strips to ensure your spa water is properly balanced before entry
• Follow best water maintenance practices to keep your water sparkling clean
• Maintain proper pH and disinfectant levels

Proper Water Care

If you own a hot tub, keeping control of your water maintenance schedule is vital to your safety and the safety of your guests. By properly maintaining your water chemical levels, you will ensure that everyone who enjoys your hot tub can do so without needing to be concerned about rashes or infections of any type.

If you own a Bullfrog Spa and you’re struggling with water maintenance issues, please see your local Bullfrog Spas dealer with questions. Our website also has lots of information about water care for our specific systems that you might find helpful.

If you need spa chemicals to keep your hot tub water crystal clear and avoid hot tub rash, you can order anything you need from our online store!

The post What is a Hot Tub Rash or Hot Tub Folliculitis? appeared first on Bullfrog Spas.

Though spending time in the hot tub has proven health benefits, users should be aware of that there are limits to keeping the experience a safe one. There really are no hard and fast rules for how long you can safely soak in a hot tub, but there are recommendations that include being aware of certain factors which may raise your risk of danger. Factors vary from person to person, so it’s good to know the warning signs of overheating and other potential problems caused by soaking in a hot body of water too long.

Factors That Affect Hot Tub Soak Times

Hot Tub Temperature

Hot tub temperature can play the biggest role in determining a safe soak duration. Sitting in a tub of water that is a cool 98 degrees is not likely to affect you, as the temperature is right in line with your normal body temp. However, if you raise that temperature by between two and four degrees, you and your body will feel it.

As you may already well know, the body perspires to release heat. However, according to findings published in a CBS 12News article, when external temperatures soar into the triple digits, the perspiration process becomes more difficult and it requires much more water intake. If the body doesn’t get enough water at this point, the heat becomes trapped within the body, thereby raising internal body temperatures. Shortly thereafter, dehydration sets in. Of course, you can avoid this whole experience by keeping a bottle of water with you when you soak.

How long can you stay in a hot tub at the normal temperature?

Ideally, you should keep the temperature between 100 and 102 degrees. If you do, and if you keep a bottle of water handy, it’s okay to soak for a good 15 to 30 minutes, or for as long as you feel comfortable.

Your Overall Health

Your overall health or physical condition is another influential factor in how long you can stay in the hot tub. For instance, pregnant women should never go into a hot tub that’s temperature exceeds 102 degrees, and even then, they should limit their soak time to 10 minutes. People with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or circulatory problems should discuss hot tub safety with their health care providers before taking a dip. Individuals who take certain medications, such as those that induce drowsiness or anticoagulants, should also consult with their healthcare providers before entering a spa.

Your Age

If you are a healthy, non-pregnant adult, you should be safe to soak at 102 degrees for as long as you feel comfortable without feeling any adverse effects. However, the same rules don’t apply for healthy children. The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals recommends that kids under 12 keep their soaks at 104 degrees to under five minutes. Between 98 and 104 degrees, longer soaks up to 15 minutes are okay. A helpful safe practice is having kids avoid full body immersion, using higher “jump seats” that keep more of their body out of the water while spending time in the hot tub.

The Level at Which You Sit

Hot tubs have seats at various levels for a reason–to allow you to move around and cool various parts of your body. If you sit at the lowest level for 15 minutes or more, you allow your core body temperature to rise a lot faster than it would if, say, you moved to a seat at which your upper torso was out of the water. The more you move around and vary your seat depth, the longer you can safely sit in the hot tub.

Dangers of Soaking for Too Long

The best way to determine how long is too long to stay in the hot tub is to read the signals your body sends you. Some signs of danger to look for include the following:

Dizziness or Light-Headedness

If you begin to feel dizzy or lightheaded at any point while you are soaking, it may be a warning sign that your body is hotter than you think. Get out and cool down for 15 minutes or so.

Overheating

Most people don’t recognize the signs of overheating until the condition has progressed to the point of physical illness. However, you can prevent your body from reaching that point by knowing for what signs to look. Some early signs of overheating include the following:

• Tingling sensation in the skin
• Headache
• Fatigue or weakness
• An increased or decreased heart rate
• Dizziness
• Sweating profusely or not sweating at all

If you notice any of these signs, get out of the tub and into a cool, dry area immediately. Drink water and pay attention to your body. If your symptoms progress, call 911.

Nausea and Vomiting

Sometimes intense heat can cause nausea and vomiting that is not related to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. That said, even if you don’t suspect the symptoms are signs of heatstroke, nausea would be another one of the body’s signs indicating you should remove yourself from the spa and drink plenty of cool fluids.

Burns on the Skin

If your skin begins to redden or burn in anyway, it could just be a sign that you have sensitive skin, but it’s also a sign that you should get out of the hot tub. Though it may be nothing more than a heat rash, you should take it as a sign that your body needs a break from the heat.

Decrease in Blood Pressure

Unless you keep a blood pressure monitor on you at all times, it may be difficult to know if you are experiencing a dip in blood pressure. However, just like when it begins to overheat, your body will send out warning signals when your blood pressure starts to dive. In fact, many of the symptoms are the same as those associated with overheating:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Inability to concentrate
• Nausea
• Fainting

Warning signs of extreme hypotension include confusion, rapid, shallow breathing, and weak or rapid pulse. If you notice any signs of decreased blood pressure, extreme or not, get out of the hot tub immediately.

So, How Long Should You Soak?

The information is great for most “if-then” situations, but what about if you’re a full grown, healthy adult who can soak for 30 minutes at a time without feeling any adverse effects? Can you just keep on soaking until you tire of the spa experience? Pretty much, yes. However, it’s always better to play it safe and to give yourself some rules by which to live.

While we don’t want to put a limit on your fun, we do recommend taking a break from your backyard retreat every 15 to 30 minutes, or an hour on the outside. These guidelines may change based on the outside temperature, your own health on any given day, and other factors, but these numbers provide a good place to start.

Ultimately, how long you should soak all depends on your personal comfort level. If you feel fine, you probably are. However, if you begin to feel dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous, or different in any way, get out of the tub, grab a bottle of water and go back to relaxing on the couch—at least for the time being.

How Often You Can Use a Hot Tub

As we’re all relieved to hear, there are no restrictions placed on the frequency of using a hot tub. Some people look forward to a soak every day of the year. Some even use their spa more than once a day because of the benefits it provides. Personal use depends on what works and fits best for the individual.

Are Hot Tubs Safe?

Hot tubs are perfectly safe and provide a wide range of benefits from pain relief to stress release to quality time with loved ones. As with any recreational product, proper installation, use, and maintenance ensuresafetyof those enjoying their hydrotherapeutic experience. Certain circumstances warrant limitations, such as pregnancy and having kids around. And if you’re using a public spa rather than a private hot tub, there are factors to be aware of. But overall, as long as recommended precautions are taken, safety risks can be minimized.

Bullfrog Spas Online Shop

Maintain your spa and enjoy a peaceful body, peaceful mind, and a peaceful home with genuine Bullfrog Spas products. Shop helpful hot tub accessories, original replacement parts for your Bullfrog Spa, easy-to-use hot tub water care chemicals, and more.

The post How Long Should You Stay in a Hot Tub appeared first on Bullfrog Spas.

Hot tubs can still bring us much needed R & R today. Although there are precautions you should be mindful of, you can continue your hot tub lifestyle. In light of COVID-19, we want to make sure you have the right knowledge to look after yourself and to educate those around you. Keep reading for important facts and information regarding hot tubs and viruses.

Hot Tubs & COVID-19

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no evidence that people can contract COVID-19 from pools, hot tubs or spas, or water playgrounds. In fact, with proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (with chlorine or bromine), hot tubs should kill the virus that causes COVID-19.

So, how exactly do you carry out proper maintenance and disinfection?   To do this properly, ask these three questions:

How Do I Choose the Right Spa Chemicals for My Hot Tub?

It’s important to know the kinds of chemicals and the proper amounts to use to ensure you have clean water. Chlorine and bromine are the most commonly used disinfectants to remove.

Either chemical will kill bacteria and the COVID-19 virus.

How Do I Measure pH Levels?

Without balanced pH levels, your hot tub water won’t have the right total alkalinity (TA) levels, which it could lead to equipment damage .

You can measure your hot tub’s pH levels by using testing strips, which can be purchased at any pool and spa supplies shop. On a pH scale, lower numbers are more acidic, and higher numbers are more basic. The water in your hot tub should be between pH levels of 7.2 and 7.8.

How Often Should You Change Hot Tub Water?

Many people assume that once you add your chlorine and bromine and the pH level is looking good, the deed is done. But maintenance takes one more step. As with any quality product or service, consistency is a key to maintenance. That’s why we recommend that hot tub water be changed every 4-6 months.

Generally, you can just drain the water out of your hot tub, then refill it with a hose. But the method can vary with the design of your particular type of hot tub.

Hot Tubs for Ailments

Hot tubs are more than just places to soak; they’ve also been known to provide a variety of health benefits that may be advantageous for those battling physical and mental ailments.  There are several benefits you can enjoy from soaking in a steam hot tub:

1.    Receiving Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is one of the most commonly known benefits of soaking in a hot tub. It’s the practice of using mechanical and thermal effects to help treat a variety of ailments, including:

• Anxiety and stress
• Arthritis
• Rheumatic complaints

2.    Relief from Cold or Flu Symptoms

If you’re fighting a cold, you might hope that immersing yourself in hot water will destroy the virus. Sadly, this is not the case. We have to ask this: What temperature kills the cold virus? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), temperatures of 140 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit are enough to kill most viruses. This range exceeds the maximum temperature for hot tubs, which is 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

But are spas still good for colds? Yes! When your face feels 10 pounds heavier because of an annoying stuffy nose, why not soak in a steamy tub to find some relief for a while? A hot tub session not only alleviates your congestion but also can elevate your body temperature, helping you slow down cold and flu viruses spreading through your body.

3.    Post Work-Out Relief

Especially during these times of isolation, many people are diving into physical activities to help pass time and build a strong immune system. Exercise often causes body soreness, and hot tubs are a great way to loosen muscle tissues. They may also reduce muscle spasms.

You can find hot tubs that come with personalized therapy systems to help bring the healing that your body needs. The Jetpak Therapy System, for example, is specifically designed for your lower back, spine, neck, and shoulders, providing a variety of massage types and customized jet placements.

Can you get sick from a hot tub?

With these physical and mental benefits of using hot tubs, you might be wondering, can you get sick from a hot tub? It depends. If you have pre-existing conditions and/or don’t take care of your tub, there is a possibility of getting ill. So, it’s important to be mindful of your body, follow physician recommendations, and keep your hot tub water clean.

Here are some general health and safety cautions:

• Keep water temperatures at or below 104 degrees to minimize risk of heat stress and get out of the hot tub if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.
• Pregnant women and young children should limit their exposure to just a few minutes at a time, since they are more likely to get heat stress and/or dehydration.
• Do not use your hot tub if the outlet opening does not have a cover screen. The suction from this outlet can trap hair and body parts and lead to dangerous circumstances.
• If you’ve been drinking alcohol or taking drugs, you should not use a hot tub. Either one can cause accidents and/or heat stress.

3 Hot Tub Myths

In our internet world, there are many myths and misconceptions being spread about hot tubs. We want to take this chance to debunk some hot tub myths, which could help you gain a much-deserved haven and sense of normalcy during this stressful time.

Myth 1: Hot Tubs Are Hard to Maintain

Hot tubs are a lot smaller than pools and take less time to maintain. Easy water care systems like our EOS O₃ minimize the work involved in maintaining a clean and healthy hot tub . It provides a system that’s twice as effective at oxidizing impurities as competing systems, without leaving excess ozone gas behind.

You just need to add your chlorine or bromine and clean the filters every few weeks. Also, change out your water every 4-6 months. The benefits certainly outweigh the cleaning time!

Myth 2: Hot Tubs Are Unsanitary

This one is just crazy, if maintained correctly. The filtration pump combined with proper water balance and chemical use, helps keep hot tub water clean.

Myth 3: Chlorine or Bromine Makes Your Eyes Burn

If you experience a burning eye sensation, this may mean that your hot tub pH levels are imbalanced. Lower pH levels are acidic and may be the reason for this irritation.

Take a Dip with Care

It’s crucial to find wellness activities during this time, and hot tubs can be the perfect option. With the right maintenance, you can soak in your hot tub to help pass the time and relieve stress and anxiety. Better yet, it’ll make staying at home a bit more bearable for you and your loved ones.

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However, If you’re a new hot tub owner, you may not know what temperature your hot tub should be.

Hot tub temperatures range anywhere from 90ºF to 104ºF. 104ºF is the standard max temperature for most hot tubs. Depending on your preference, your age, and your health, you should keep your hot tub at a different temperature within that range.

Learn the best hot tub temperatures for each situation below.

The Ideal Hot Tub Temperature for Relaxing

Most hot tub users find that the perfect temperature is between 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some like the water to be body temperature at 98 degrees, and some like it hotter–up to 104 degrees.

Test out a few temperatures and see what you like best. Nothing is better than finding that “just right” feeling in a hot tub.

It’s also common for hot tub owners to change the spa temperature depending on the time of the year. Below are how some examples for winter and summer.

Hot tub temperature in winter

Although definitely not a requirement, many spa owners like to increase the temperature during cold winter months.

For example, John, a Bullfrog Spa owner, likes the drastic difference between the water and air temperature. He says it’s “great therapy to go from a 104 degree spa to 20 degree air temperature.”

Others, such as Chris from Colorado, like a more mild change. He says, “We keep the spa at 101 degrees in winter and 99 degrees in the summer.”

Hot tub temperature in summer

If you live in an extra hot climate, consider dropping the temperature a bit during the summer and see what you think. Keeping your spa temperature below 98 degrees can be refreshing while still providing the warm water that makes you feel so relaxed.

Don F. says, “I actually like it about 95-97 degrees in the summer.”

Safe Hot Tub Temperature

It’s important to stay safe while enjoying the benefits of a hot tub.The CPSC advises to never exceed 104 degrees in your hot tub. Temperatures of 106 degrees or higher can potentially lead to heat stroke.

For your safety, your Bullfrog Spa will not allow you to set a temperature above 104 degrees.

Keep in mind that your age and health can also change the safe temperature zone. Here are a few factors to consider:

For kids

If kids will be using the hot tub, the recommended temperature is around 95 degrees or less so they don’t overheat. And don’t let children stay in the spa for more than 15 minutes at a time.

Bullfrog Spas also recommends having children sit in the provided child or “cool down” seats that aren’t as deep in the water.

For older adults

If you suffer from any health issues, especially heart problems, consult your doctor before using a spa. Your doctor may recommend relaxing at a lower temperature. It’s also important to stay hydrated, so keep a bottle of water nearby.

When pregnant

In addition, you should consult your doctor before using a hot tub if you are pregnant. Never exceed a temperature of 101 degrees and limit the amount of time you spend in the hot water.

Hot tubs can be a great way to relax and improve your life. Download the hot tub health benefits guide to learn more about what a hot tub can do for you.

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Doctors’ Recommendations

If you ask any OB/GYN about what pregnant women can and cannot do, each is likely to use the same phrase: “everything in moderation.” An expectant mother CAN drink coffee…in moderation. She CAN drink wine…in moderation. She CAN exercise…in moderation. When it comes to hot tub use, a doctor is likely to tell you more or less the same— an expectant mother can use a hot tub, but with stipulations.

Though hot tubs are great for relaxation and pain relief, they can be dangerous if you are not careful. Hot tubs can cause hyperthermia, which is an abnormally high body temperature and a condition that can cause serious pregnancy complications. You can avoid hyperthermia and other complications by taking thorough precautions before getting in a hot tub, which we will explain in detail in this article. We will also provide safety advice on how to lower your risks if you do ultimately decide a good soak is just what you need to make you and baby happy.

Important Temperatures to Keep in Mind: How Hot is Too Hot?

Generally speaking, hyperthermia occurs at 104.0 degrees Fahrenheit. However, according to AmericanPregnancy.org, a body temperature of 101.0 degrees is considered too high for expectant mothers and their fetuses, especially if it lasts for an extended period of time. Other sources, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, state that pregnant women should never let their core body temperatures rise above 102.2 degrees. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends an even lower hot tub temperature for pregnant women, at just 100.0 degrees. Though the specific temperatures vary, each of these organizations generally cautions against certain use of hot tubs while pregnant.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the average hot tub temperature is 104.0 degrees Fahrenheit. For a healthy, full-grown adult, heat stroke can occur in a hot tub with a water temp of 106.0 degrees. For a newly developing fetus, damage can occur far before that temperature is reached.

Hot Tub Use and Early Pregnancy

Hot tub guidelines vary and are dependent upon a person’s age, current state of health, and even outside temperatures, so it only makes sense that recommendations would vary based on at which stage of pregnancy a woman is at currently. If you wondering about getting in a hot tub pregnant, you need to consider how developed your fetus is.

Studies mentioned in OTIS’s Hyperthermia and Pregnancy report look specifically at the effects prolonged exposure (more than 10 minutes) to high temperatures in the first seven weeks of pregnancy. Findings show that women under these conditions were at a higher risk of delivering babies with neural tube defects, which can lead to conditions known as spina bifida and anencephaly. While these studies typically reference fevers rather than a soak in a hot tub, you can understand where experts concerns and cautions come from when it comes to pregnancy and the hot tub question.

Hot Tub Use in the Second and Third Trimesters

The first trimester is generally characterized by nausea and morning sickness, but it isn’t until the second and third trimesters roll around that the physical (and possibly emotional) discomfort starts to set in. It is during this time that expectant mothers often yearn for the warm waters and soothing jets of a spa. The recommendation at this point is still: Proceed with caution.

While the risks are certainly less than what they were during the first trimester, there are still health concerns to think about. Pregnant women, in general, are at greater risk for dehydration, low blood pressure, and dizziness, many of which are exacerbated by extreme heat. If you allow your core body temperature to rise too much, you may get dizzy, faint, and/or put yourself and baby at risk. It’s important at this stage to drink plenty of water, use handrails or ask for support, and be mindful of cues your body is giving you should you spend time in the hot tub.

Can Hot Tubs Cause Miscarriage?

Whereas research has been able to link hyperthermia due to fever to birth defects, studies have been less conclusive about the link to miscarriage. There was a 1985 study by Johns Hopkins University that suggested hyperthermia in the first trimester could be a risk factor tied to miscarriage. However, this was disputed by a larger-scale Danish study in 2002 that found no evidence of the link..

Every pregnancy is different–every woman different–and every child, born or unborn, different. For this reason, you should always listen to your doctor and adhere to the strict recommendations set out for expectant mothers.

Reducing the Health Risks of Hot Tubbing While Pregnant

If you ask your doctor whether you can get in a hot tub while pregnant and they say yes, don’t go jumping in just yet. There are certain precautions you’ll want to take to avoid harming your baby or even yourself:

• Adjust your hot tub’s temperature to no more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, just to err on the side of caution.
• Keep a thermometer in the water at all times so you can monitor the temperature.
• Limit your soak time to just 10 minutes.
• If you begin to feel uncomfortable, hot, dizzy or faint, get out of the water. Also, get out if you begin to sweat.
• Avoid sitting in an inlet where newly heated water flows into the hot tub  (ports are usually located within the spa’s seat and floor jets).
• If you dip just your feet in, allow them to soak for no more than 10 minutes.
• If your pregnancy is complicated, or if you have any chronic health conditions, avoid the hot tub altogether.

Taking Hot Baths While Pregnant

If you simply need to relax but want to do so without worrying about the harm you may or may not cause your baby, you could just take a hot bath. Soaking in a hot bath is different from a hot tub in two key ways. First, when you sit in a bath, more of your body is out of the water (arms and knees), which means you will be less likely to overheat. Second, hot baths begin to cool the moment you turn off the faucet. After just 10 minutes in a hot bath, your water, in most cases, will be around 98.8 degrees or lower, which is a more than safe temp for you and baby. Hot tubs, on the other hand, continually cycle in hot water, meaning that the tub itself never gets a chance to cool.

Best Practices for Pregnant Women and Hot Tubs

Pregnancy will undoubtedly be a wonderful and exciting time in your life, but that doesn’t mean you and your baby are immune to complications. You can reduce the risk of complications by following doctor’s orders and adhering to best practices for expectant mothers, especially where hot tubs are concerned. If you’re tempted to soak away the stress of a work day, or the pains of a morning workout, or even just the pains of carrying another human being inside of you, keep these best practices to of mind:

• Avoid using a hot tub in the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Keep spa temperatures at or below 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Soak no more than 10 minutes at a time.
• Monitor the water’s temperature and your own body temperature during those 10 minutes.
• If you feel hot, begin to sweat, get dizzy, or demonstrate other signs of overheating, get out.

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Maintain your spa and enjoy a peaceful body, peaceful mind, and a peaceful home with genuine Bullfrog Spas products. Shop helpful hot tub accessories, original replacement parts for your Bullfrog Spa, easy-to-use hot tub water care chemicals, and more.

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What’s the Danger?

Recreational water illnesses (RWI) are not uncommon problems. They can happen in the ocean, in local swimming holes, in public pools, and yes, even in hot tubs. Water’s just too effective a communicating medium, and too hospitable a location for bacteria, viruses, and parasites. And the list of illnesses that proliferate in these perpetually wet environments is pretty long.

The most common water-borne illnesses cause digestive tract issues like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. These symptoms can be caused by viruses like norovirus, parasites like Cryptosporidium and Giardia, and bacteria like Shigella and E. coli. These illnesses typically only occur when the individual swallows contaminated water or gets it in their mouth.

Also among commonly contracted illnesses relevant to hot tubs and spas is “hot tub rash,” a chicken pox-esque rash caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This particular skin infection is usually minor and resolves itself without treatment.

Additionally, there are the rarer skin and open wound infections that can occur, including Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia that can be dangerous to smokers, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.

“But There’s Chlorine in the Water…”

While sanitizing agents like chlorine can help decrease the risk of spreading infections, it’s not foolproof, and only works if used properly. Though usually pretty effective in swimming pools, it tends to be less effective in hot tubs because higher temperatures can break down chemicals, decreasing their efficacy.

Beyond that, bathers and the human effect have a tendency to make matters worse. Skin lotion, sunscreen, hair products, and sweat deplete chlorine levels in any body of water. Then there’s the potential of other contaminants, like urine bathers secretly release (which they incorrectly assume is harmless). All of these contaminants can rob chlorine of its potency, while not infectious, can cause irritation of the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

How to Protect Yourself: Public vs Private Hot Tub Use

So if hot tubs are can carry disease, why on earth would you ever use one? Well, proper use and maintenance eliminate nearly all of the risks. Not to mention, there’s a long list of hot tub health benefits to soaking in a spa, boosting your overall quality of life. The key is to minimize the transmission risks by taking the right precautions, which you can’t presume is happening with hot tubs open to public use.

1. Make sure bathers wash off before and after getting in the hot tub.
2. Test hot tub chemical levels before each use, and ensure proper levels—2-4 ppm for chlorine, 4-6 ppm for bromine, and pH of 7.2-7.8.
3. Perform regular maintenance, clean the spa, replace the water, and change the filter at regular recommended intervals.
4. Keep the water temperature at 104 degrees or below at all times.
5. Be sure to “shock” the water with a high dose of sanitizer after use (so bacteria isn’t growing in between uses).
6. Don’t get the water in your mouth.
7. Talk to your doctor for recommendations on hot tub use while pregnant or in other special health circumstances.

Finally, installing your hot tub outdoors in the open air decreases the risk of contracting Legionnaires’ disease, which only happens when you inhale steam or mist from the water. Follow these steps and you can use your hot tub confidently, knowing you’re keeping potential health risks in check.

For more tips on maintaining the safety and functionality of your spa or to get help finding the right hot tub for you, contact your local dealer today to get started.

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Maintain your spa and enjoy a peaceful body, peaceful mind, and a peaceful home with genuine Bullfrog Spas products. Shop helpful hot tub accessories, original replacement parts for your Bullfrog Spa, easy-to-use hot tub water care chemicals, and more.

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Keeping the Kids Out

If you’re worried about small children finding their way into the hot tub, your first line of defense is the hot tub cover. Many high-quality hot tubs come with locking covers (as in, it requires a key to open). In the event the model you’ve chosen doesn’t come with this feature, there are separate locking mechanisms that can be purchased from retailers.

When choosing a locking mechanism, you’re following the same procedure as keeping the knife drawer on lockdown—you want something that the child can’t outsmart. Key-based systems are best, as long as you can keep the key out of their reach.

If you’re looking for an added layer of protection, consider installing a pool fence around the spa area to further restrict access. Properly installed, the fence itself can prevent unwanted access to the spa and, depending on its height, add a measure of privacy.

Babies in Hot Tubs

As a rule, no one under 5 years of age should be allowed in a hot tub, so babies should be kept away for their own safety. Due to their small size, their bodies can heat up to unsafe temperatures much faster than an adult and babies can’t communicate about their discomfort. This means that hot tubs, as a rule, are unsafe for babies, even for short periods of time.

Additionally, as children learn to crawl and walk, they are naturally curious about their surroundings, which is why it’s so important to have a locking hot tub cover. Other safety features like a mesh pool fence are wise additions.

Keeping the Swimmers Safe

Time and Temperature

As for keeping the kids safe when they’re in the hot tub, there are several things you can do to ensure you’re enjoying the spa responsibly:

1. Children under the age of 5 should never be allowed into a hot tub.
2. Set hot tub temperature at or below 95 degrees if children will be using the spa.
3. Don’t let children stay in the water longer than 10 or 15 minutes at a time (you can potentially extend this time by having them dangle their legs in the water).
4. Teens and adults shouldn’t go longer than 30 minutes in the hot tub.
5. Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before entering a hot tub.

Suction Drains

Suction drains, which are typically located at the bottom of the spa, pose a unique safety concern, especially to children. The powerful suction force can trap limbs and hair, preventing the child from returning to the surface of the water. Like other safety concerns, there are ways to prevent mishaps and ensure the safety of your family and friends.

First, make sure that the drains have appropriate covers, and that the covers are up to date. This will help prevent things from getting stuck down there. Second, choose a hot tub model that uses a dual drain system, as this decreases the suction force, lowering the risk of getting hair or clothing sucked into it. Lastly, hot tubs come equipped with an emergency off-switch for the drains. Locate this off-switch on your model for use in case of emergencies.

Maintenance & Additional Tips

Hot tubs that are not properly maintained can result in more concerns, including rashes and infections. These problems are handled by keeping the hot tub clean, maintained, and the chemicals balanced. Sterilizing systems like chlorine or ozone treatments help keep the hot tub free from infectious diseases, and balancing the chemicals properly ensures that it doesn’t irritate the skin. Replacing filters will likewise help keep the water clean and safe for swimmers.

Beyond minor maintenance you can perform by yourself, you should have your hot tub checked annually by a professional. They will evaluate each of the systems to make sure everything is working properly, running at peak energy efficiency, and that there are no leaks. Regular preventative maintenance by a professional will help identify problems before they arise, and will extend the life of your spa.

To make sure everyone has a safe, enjoyable time in the spa, here are some additional tips:

• Establish rules with your kids and make sure they understand the consequences and safety risks.
• Always supervise minors in the hot tub.
• Hot tubs aren’t swimming pools—no “underwater” play, which could lead to ear infections.
• Stay hydrated, and exit the spa regularly to cool off.
• Install hot tub steps and hot tub safety rails to ensure that your guests can enter and exit safely.

If you’ve found this article informative, be sure to share it with your family and friends, and let them know that Bullfrog Spas is the trusted source for safe and enjoyable hot tubs and spas.

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First, Consider Safety at the First Stages of Planning

Your home and backyard can be enjoyable and present an atmosphere of stress-relieving fun and relaxation. It’s amazing to consider the different pool and spa designs you can plan to achieve this. Pools and hot tubs create an enjoyable and fun way to relax, but if you plan to have either in your backyard it is important to investigate what you should know about pool and hot tub safety before you buy or build.

Pools and hot tubs are becoming more and more prevalent as an at home luxury, even in homes that wouldn’t be considered luxury homes. It is estimated that in 2012, there were over 8,000,000 pools in the private sector. Additionally, there are approximations of more than 270,000 pools in the commercial sector. The hot tub numbers are higher, likely approximately 5,000,000. But don’t let their popularity lull you to sleep in terms of safety. It’s important to evaluate your own home to be sure you have the proper set up to avoid accidents. If you don’t have a secure yard, or you live in an area that doesn’t allow fencing, you may just have to reconsider or take more than normal safety precautions.

Safety Covers Over Pools and Hot Tubs

Installing a cover over a pool or hot tub is vital. Pool and hot tub covers along with pool enclosures can decrease the possibility of accidental drowning. When children and adults who cannot swim are exposed to uncovered pools, they can slip or fall in it. Presently, only about 24.9 percent of pools and hot tubs have covers. By installing a manual or automated motorized cover, the chances of accidental drowning fall sharply.

Fences with Locked Gates

There are unfortunately many drowning accidents reported in the U.S. each year that could be prevented. Many of these reports involved children who were not authorized to enter a pool or hot tub area. Most of these drownings take place when there is just one swimmer or accidental fall and no one available who could assist in the prevention. A fence or some other apparatus will prevent unauthorized access to the pool or hot tub. Fence and Gate Alarms will also help to prevent unauthorized entry.

Pools Alarms and Fences/Gates Alarms

Often, owners of pools are not aware that there are special alarm systems. These would indicate and notify someone if a pool was entered without authorization or in the absence of other people. There are many types of pool alarm systems such as a:

• Sub-surface detection alarm
• Pool immersion alarm
• Surface wave detection alarm
• In-ground pool guard alarm

Although these pools and hot tubs are exciting, and a source of relaxation for several people, many of them are unsafe. The lack of care or supporting equipment could cause accidents and jeopardize lives. These are a few simple steps that could greatly increase security and peace of mind when owning a hot tub or pool.

Bullfrog Spas Online Shop

Maintain your spa and enjoy a peaceful body, peaceful mind, and a peaceful home with genuine Bullfrog Spas products. Shop helpful hot tub accessories, original replacement parts for your Bullfrog Spa, easy-to-use hot tub water care chemicals, and more.

The post What to Know About Pools and Hot Tubs: Tips for Safety appeared first on Bullfrog Spas.

You’ve probably seen these incredible pictures of dogs chasing balls underwater. They are fascinating. You can’t stop staring in fact. And, as a pet owner, you probably love spending time with your dog. In fact, Fido might do pretty much everything with you. Could this include hot tubbing? Well, let’s discuss.

First, as much as we dog lovers may not want to hear this, dogs are not people. You must be aware of a few things to protect your hot tub, yourself, and your pet. Here are a few things to think about and remember when deciding whether or not to take a dip with your dogs.

Keeping it Clean

Before bringing your dog into the hot tub, you must consider cleanliness. You may bathe your pet regularly and keep them inside, but all dogs pick up small bits of dust and debris in their coat throughout the day. When your dog gets wet in the hot tub, there is a good chance that any dirt, grime or debris within its coat will get into the water, not to mention the hair that is shed. This can tax hot tub filters or make the tub a bit less pleasant for you and the other humans in the household.

If you still really want to take a soak with Fido, and we really don’t advise doing so, it is really important to rinse him or her off vigorously with a garden hose prior to jumping in. This will free up any loose fur, dander, and as much dirt and dust as possible. Coincidentally, a good rinse prior to hot tub use is also advisable with people, although you don’t need to resort to the garden hose for your own pre-spa rinse. A shower works better.

You also want to be aware of any flea or tick shampoos or sprays you might use on your pet. These can separate from the dog’s coat and mix with your hot tub water. Although your filtration system will remove these things, it can take time for the water to be entirely circulated and cleaned after your dog takes a swim and you may have to use a defoaming agent to clear soap and shampoo residues.

Damage to Hot Tub Surfaces

If you intend to hot tub with your dog you also have to think about the damage that could be done to your spa’s surfaces. Many dogs panic when they get into a hot tub. Some seem to dislike the walls on all sides of the water. Weird right?

Your dog’s first instinct will probably be to attempt to climb out. Your dog’s claws can scratch your acrylic hot tub surface and cause damage to other parts of the spa. If you’re still intent on a dip with Fido, keeping claws completely trimmed and rounded and making sure you’re always present if the dog is swimming can help you avoid damage.

Safety

When you own a hot tub you must think of safety for everyone. This includes your pets. Be sure to keep a hot tub cover on your unattended spa at all times. This will keep your pets, as well as children from accidentally falling in.

If you are still planning to swim with your dog, even while you’re there, you must consider it’s safety in the water. Even if you think that your dog can swim well, you never really know what could happen. You would surely be heartbroken if your dog drowned or were injured in your hot tub. Yes, it looks a little ridiculous (although this little guy pulls it off nicely), but if you insist on bringing your dog in the hot tub, you may want to consider a dog floatation device. These simple dog life jackets can help your pet stay afloat and feel safer in the water.

One more safety issue to consider: heat. As you probably already know, hot tubs are typically kept at temperatures of around 102 degrees or so. Although this might feel good to you, it can cause your dog to get overheated very quickly. Dogs don’t sweat and they could be at risk of getting overheated in temperatures this high. Those that are overweight or particularly susceptible to the heat can suffer even more. Your dog could potentially develop heat stroke or even be at risk of death in a shorter amount of time than you think.

You should also consider how your dog might be affected by the sanitizing chemicals in your hot tub. For example, your dog’s skin or eyes could be adversely affected. Also, many dogs have the temptation to drink the water that they’re swimming in. This may not be good for their health.

Create a Dog Safe Hot Tub of Your Own

One alternative to sharing your human hot tub with your dog is to create a doggy hot tub of their own. This is probably the best plan for doggie spa relaxation. Even dogs that don’t generally like the water can enjoy a nice warm soak. In fact, this is a great way to introduce dogs to water and to help them overcome a fear of jumping in. To create a dog hot tub simply fill a tub or container with fresh water just above lukewarm. There won’t be any of the chemicals, filters, or sensitive surfaces to worry about. Introduce your puppy slowly and soon you will find that they absolutely love their own dog-safe hot tub.

A dog hot tub that is all their own will keep you, your hot tub, and your pet safe, happy, and relaxed.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Hot Tub but Give Fido His Own Doggie Hot Tub Instead

There’s simply no question that hot tubs are an enjoyable and relaxing experience for almost all of us. However, although you might wish that your dog could spend a bit of time with you in the hot tub, it’s just not a good idea.

Of course the decision of whether or not a dog can use a hot tub is always up to you as a responsible pet and hot tub owner. But once all factors are considered, it’s our opinion that it is better to keep your hot tub a pet-free zone.

Keep in mind that even though your dog may not be joining you inside the hot tub you can always encourage your dog to hang out alongside the hot tub so that it can be part of the festivities and can keep you company while you’re taking a soak. There have been many games of fetch played while I’ve been enjoying the spa and my dog enjoys the yard and companionship.

Or, go ahead and get pup a cozy tub of his own. Now that’s a relaxed dog!

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