Hot Tub Etiquette 101: A Short-Term Renter’s Guide to Safe Soaking
Welcome to the Relaxation Zone
You booked the perfect Airbnb—maybe it’s a mountain cabin, a cozy backyard suite, or a lakeside bungalow. And to top it off? It comes with a hot tub
Whether it’s your first soak or your hundredth, a rental hot tub can elevate your trip—if it’s used properly
This guide is your go-to for enjoying the hot tub safely and respectfully. Think of it as a crash course in hot tub etiquette. With just a few smart habits, you can help keep the water clean, avoid health risks, and protect the tub for the next guests
Let’s soak smarter
1. Shower First – Yes, Every Time
Hot tubs are not bathtubs. The water isn’t drained after every soak—it’s treated and reused for weeks or months. That means whatever’s on your body ends up in the water
A quick rinse helps reduce cloudy water and prevents buildup. It also helps the sanitizer work more effectively
Pro tip: Rinse your swimsuit too—especially if it’s been washed in detergent
2. No Glass, No Food, and Easy on the Alcohol
Alcohol hits harder in hot water. It increases your heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and can lead to dizziness or fainting
Best practices:
- Use plastic cups only
- Avoid eating in the tub
- Stay hydrated and take breaks
Broken glass in a hot tub can mean a full shutdown and a costly repair
3. Wear the Right Swimwear
Only wear clean swimwear—no cotton, denim, or regular clothing. These fabrics shed fibers and trap body products that interfere with water chemistry
Avoid:
- Street clothes or cotton T-shirts
- Suits with sunscreen or detergent residue
- Shoes in or near the tub
Best bet: Bring a dedicated clean suit just for hot tub use
4. Supervise Children Carefully
If you’re traveling with kids, check the host’s guidelines. Many hot tubs aren’t safe for small children
Tips:
- Children under 5 should not use the hot tub
- Always supervise older children
- No jumping, splashing, or roughhousing near the tub
Never leave a child unattended near an uncovered hot tub
5. Limit Your Soak Time
Keep each soak to 15–30 minutes. Take breaks and drink water between sessions. Too much time in hot water can cause:
- Dizziness or nausea
- Dehydration
- Fatigue
- Skin irritation
Pace your relaxation—your body will thank you
6. Skip the Soak if You’re Sick
Hot tubs are shared water systems. If you’re sick, avoid soaking to protect yourself and future guests
Do not use the hot tub if:
- You have a cold, flu, or stomach bug
- You’ve had diarrhea in the last 14 days
- You have cuts, rashes, or open wounds
Sanitizer only works so hard—do your part
7. Leave the Equipment Alone
Stick to using the topside control panel for jets, temperature, and lights. Do not touch or alter anything else
Do not:
- Open any panels
- Unplug cords or reset breakers
- Change heat settings unless approved
If something isn’t working, contact your host
8. Report Water Issues Immediately
Clean water should be clear, calm, and nearly scent-free. If it looks or smells off, don’t soak—report it
Watch for:
- Cloudy or green water
- Strong chlorine or musty odor
- Invisible tub floor
Take a picture and notify the host
9. Always Replace the Cover
When you’re done soaking, close the cover fully and secure straps or locks if provided. This protects the hot tub and helps:
- Retain heat
- Keep out debris
- Prevent accidents
Leaving the cover off overnight can damage the hot tub and increase energy costs
10. Communicate with Your Host
If something goes wrong, let your host know right away. Most issues are easy to fix with a quick message
Common issues include:
- Jets not working
- No heat
- Error codes
- Low water level
Don’t wait until checkout—reach out early
Final Thoughts: Treat It Like It’s Yours
When you treat the hot tub like your own, you help keep it clean, safe, and enjoyable for the next guest. Simple habits—like rinsing before entry, avoiding glass, and replacing the lid—go a long way
Hot tubs are an amazing amenity, but they require respect and care. A little mindfulness keeps the experience great for everyone
About Us
The Hot Tub Pros help Airbnb hosts across King County, WA keep their hot tubs clean, safe, and guest-ready. If you’re a guest reading this, just know—your host has support, and your soak is in good hands
🔗 Internal Links
- Revitalize Drain and Clean
- Refresh Drain and Clean
- Hot Tub Filter 101 – Cleaning and Replacement Guide
- Hot Tub Chemicals 101 – Beginner’s Guide