Hot tubs can be a lot of fun for kids, as long as the proper safety precautions are taken. Learn how you can ensure your kids enjoy all the benefits once they reach the appropriate age and height—with your monitoring, of course— and they’ll be able to have fun with their siblings and friends and make lasting memories.
How Young Can Children Be In The Hot Tub?
When it comes to babies and toddlers, the answer is simple: Do not allow them to go into the hot tub. In general, kids under the age of five should not spend any time in or near the spa. Children that young have thinner skin, which makes them more susceptible to overheating, and it’s not worth the risk.
Using age five as the approximate safe age for hot tubs, kids still need to pass the height test. Unless a child can stand on the bottom of the spa with his or her head completely out of the water, he or she is not tall enough and shouldn’t be allowed in the hot tub.
What Is A Safe Hot Tub Temperature for Children?
For kids who pass both the age and height tests, we need to consider the temperature. The maximum temperature of a hot tub for anyone—including adults—is 104° F. At that temperature, children should stay in the hot tub no longer than five minutes.
If your children want to stay in the hot tub longer, you can lower the temperature, but keep in mind kids should never spend more than 15 minutes immersed in the water, no matter what the temperature. It’s a good idea to have your children drink plenty of water while enjoying the spa. This will help prevent dehydration and overheating.
Is it Safe for Kids to Go Underwater in A Hot Tub?
No, it is not safe for kids to go underwater in hot tubs. Going underwater can increase the risk of the following:
- Drowning – Hot tub jets and drains can trap hair, risking the trap of holding a child’s head underwater.
- Heatstroke– Since kids are already at risk for high temperatures, going underwater can further increase the risk for a heatstroke, causing them to become drowsy and lose consciousness.
- Injury– If kids are jumping into the hot tub to submerge underwater, this can risk serious injuries due to hard, shallow surfaces and a small confined space.
How To Practice Hot Tub Safety for Kids
In addition to the guidelines already discussed, it’s essential to put safeguards and practices in place to make sure your kids don’t accidentally put themselves in danger.
During a child’s hot tub use:
- Have an adult present at all times with the child within arm’s reach.
- Tie hair back while soaking to avoid any risk of it getting it pulled into drains.
- Consider a life vest for your child.
- Limit your child’s soaking time to 15 minutes.
- Use plastic cups and bottles rather than glass for beverages.
When the hot tub is not in use:
- Lock your strong, durable hot tub cover.
- Install a four-foot gate or fence around the spa, and keep the fence locked.
- Remove the stairs from the hot tub when not in use to prevent kids from climbing up.
Find Family-Friendly Hot Tubs With Zagers
Kids and hot tubs can be a great combination, as long as you prioritize safety. Connect with Zagers to find the best family-friendly hot tub that works for you and your family.
Looking for more hot tub safety facts? For more information on safety around pools and spas, check out the recommendations from C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital