If you’re like me, a dad with a deep appreciation for the relaxing soak a hot tub offers, you might be pondering whether it’s a good idea to let the younger members of the family join in on the fun. Since we got our hot tub four years ago, when our youngest was just a toddler, I’ve learned a thing or two about hot tub safety for kids. I’m here to share that knowledge, hoping it’ll guide you whether you’re eyeing a new hot tub for your home or planning a stay at a rental with one.
First things first, let’s tackle the simple answer: Can kids go in hot tubs? The answer is yes, but with a boatload of precautions and guidelines to ensure their safety.
The appropriate age for hot tub use is a bit of a moving target as the the American Academy of Pediatrics has not issued specific guidelines on what age a child should be able to go in a hot tub, but generally, common sense suggests being cautious with young children, especially those under 5 years old.
The CDC (center for disease control) does advise that children under 5 years old should not go in a hot tub.
Key Considerations for Kids in Hot Tubs
If you are ready to go ahead with introducing your kiddos to the hot tub, whether an inflatable hot tub or built in spa, keep an eye on the following factors to make your hot tub experience as safe as possible – whether with small children, but it’s worth being aware of all these factors with older children too.
Water Temperature and Soaking Time
For the little ones, high temperatures and extended soaking times are a no-go. Children’s bodies absorb heat faster than adults, and they can overheat or suffer from heat stroke much more quickly. Keep the hot tub temperature at a maximum of 102°F and limit the time to 5-10 minutes for the younger children.
Constant Adult Supervision
This is non-negotiable. Always keep an eye on your kids when they’re in or near any body of water, hot tubs included. It’s not just about preventing accidents but also about ensuring they’re not getting too hot or uncomfortable.
Health and Safety
Make sure your hot tub’s water chemistry is properly balanced, and the water is well-chlorinated (without a strong chemical smell, which indicates a well-maintained tub with little odor).
This minimizes the risk of ear infections or the spread of diseases.
Related: PH is Low in Your Hot Tub? Here’s How to Balance Alkalinity Levels!
Also, ensure the drain cover and suction drains are up to current safety standards to prevent the most serious hazard of suction force entrapment.
Depth of Water and Child Height Considerations
Despite hot tubs not being particularly deep, for a toddler or a small child, even a shallow depth can present significant risks.
It’s crucial to understand that children can drown in any amount of water, making constant vigilance a top priority. When considering whether your child is ready to join you in the hot tub, assess their ability to touch the bottom of the spa while keeping their head fully above water.
This “height test” is a simple but effective way to gauge whether it’s safe for them to be in the hot tub. However, it’s essential to remember that even if your child passes this test, they should never be left unattended in or near the hot tub.
Accidents can happen quickly, and a child’s safety in water is always contingent on adult supervision. This caution underscores the importance of being acutely aware of your child’s location and actions in the hot tub at all times, ensuring they enjoy the warm water safely alongside you.
Special Considerations
Little girls or kids with long hair should tie it up to avoid getting it caught in the drain cover or suction fitting of a hot tub. Those with health issues, like ear infections or gastrointestinal illnesses, should skip the soak to avoid exacerbating their conditions or spreading infections.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Experience with Kids
- Regular Maintenance: Keep up with regular preventative maintenance, including checking the filtration system and using hot tub disinfectant test strips from your local home improvement or pool supply stores. This helps ensure a clean and safe soaking environment.
- Safety Features: Invest in a hot tub cover, preferably a lockable safety cover, to keep the tub off-limits when not in use. If you have an inflatable spa or a portable one, ensure it meets the safety guidelines and is placed in a safe, suitable location.
- Educate Your Kids: Teach them about the dangers of hot water and the importance of keeping their heads above water to avoid ear infections or accidental drownings.
- Hydration: Encourage drinking plenty of water before and after using the hot tub to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related issues.
A Word of Caution
Remember, while a hot tub can be a great place for relaxation and family time, safety should always come first. Keep in mind that despite taking all the proper precautions, there are inherent risks associated with hot tub use, especially for younger people. Always supervise your children around water, regardless of their age.
This advice comes from our own experiences and should not replace professional guidelines or recommendations. We take no responsibility for your health and safety decisions related to hot tub use. Enjoy your hot tub safely, and cherish those warm, bubbly moments with the whole family!
So, to all the parents out there considering a dip in the hot tub with their kids, I hope this guide helps you navigate the do’s and don’ts for a safe and enjoyable experience. Hot tubs are indeed a wonderful way to unwind and spend quality time with the family, provided we stick to the guidelines and keep safety at the forefront. Happy soaking!
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