How long should you stay in a hot tub?
The short answer
There is no official time limit. Go by the temperature and by how you feel, and get out before you feel too warm, not after.
Safety agencies set a limit on how hot the water may be, not on how long you may sit in it. That is because the two go together: at 104°F your body warms quickly, and in cooler water you can stay much longer.
Get out when
- You feel dizzy, lightheaded or sick.
- You feel sleepy.
- Your skin is flushed and you have stopped feeling comfortable.
Those are signs your body is overheating. Sit on the edge or get out, cool down, and drink some water.
Ways to make a long evening safe
- Take breaks. Sit out for a few minutes now and then.
- Turn the temperature down if you like long soaks. See what temperature a hot tub should be.
- Drink water, and leave the alcohol for afterward.
- Decide on a time before you get in. It is hard to judge once you are warm and relaxed.
Keep it brief, or ask first
Children warm up faster than adults and should have shorter soaks in cooler water. If you are pregnant, or have heart, circulation or blood pressure problems, ask your doctor before using a hot tub.
This page is general information, not medical advice.
This is general guidance. Your hot tub's owner's manual comes first, and so do the instructions on your products.
Sources: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: CPSC warns of hot tub temperatures; Master Spas: Hot tub water temperature.