Can Hot Tubs Dehydrate You?

A hot tub after a workout, climbing into a hot tub on a warm summer day, hopping into one on any day … and you might pause and think: “Can hot tubs cause dehydration?”

The answer is yes. We are often asked this at Hydropool at our retail outlets, and we are aware that people can have this concern. However, in our 40 years of experience, we also know that if you practice good common sense, for the majority of people, dehydration is not an issue.

As hot tubs are often warmer than the human body temperature of 98.6F, they will make us sweat, even if you don’t notice as you’re sitting in water. We don’t want that to happen too you! So in this article we will go through:

• Our tips on how to spot dehydration
• What to do if you suspect you are dehydrated

Hopefully, by the end, you’ll have a strong sense of how to avoid becoming dehydrated while using your hot tub.

How Can I Tell if I’m Getting Dehydrated in My Hot Tub?

Before we write any advice, we want to make it very clear that we are not doctors at Hydropool. You should always discuss any health concerns with your doctor. This article is written as a general guideline to give common-sense advice on how to use a hot tub. It is not medical advice.

Recognizing the symptoms of dehydration is key for prevention. The first symptoms of mild dehydration are:

• unusual thirst
• dry mouth
• dizziness/light-headedness
• mild headache

Should you have any of these symptoms, get out of the hot tub, seek shade or somewhere cool and begin to rehydrate.

Severe dehydration symptoms include lack of sweating, extreme thirst, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, extreme thirst or a fever. If these symptoms are present, seek medical attention.

Tips on How to Avoid Dehydration in a Hot Tub

• Watch your alcohol consumption: Alcohol causes the body to become dehydrated and when combined with sitting in a hot tub, dehydration can happen quicker.
• Watch your tub temperature: If you’re at the maximum temperature of 104 degrees, you’re more likely to get dehydrated than if you’re at 98F (assuming you’re sitting in the hot tub for the same time). If you prefer longer soaks, turn your temperature down.
• Hydrate in the hot tub: Sipping a cool drink while in a hot tub is one of the best ways to use it. If you find plain water boring, try infusing with cucumber and lime, adding frozen berries or serving coconut water for something different. Encourage everyone to have a large glass of water before and after their soak as well as keep an eye on the clock while soaking.
• Watch the post-workout hot tub: If you’ve just worked out, getting into a hot tub can be something you enjoy to soothe your muscles. Just ensure you’re not dehydrated yourself further: Keep hydrating while in the hot tub!
• Be hydrated before you get in: The best tip that you can follow is to ensure that you are properly hydrated before you even enter your hot tub. Make it a rule of thumb to have a glass of water before you take a soak.
• Take a reusable water bottle with you while you enjoy your soak: Have enough on hand for everyone in your family to be able to have their own bottle. By keeping a water bottle by your side, it provides a visual reminder to drink and stay hydrated. For those using their hot tub in the winter on a cool, chilly night, you may want a warm beverage in your hands. Herbal teas are a perfect choice and will help you stay hydrated while you soak.
• Create shade: If exposed to direct sun, consider installing an umbrella or wearing a hat to help provide shade.

Again, if you have any concerns about using your hot tub due to dehydration, we encourage you to discuss them with your family doctor.

Do Hot Tubs Make You Dehydrated?

Hot tubs can cause dehydration but most people are able to practice good common sense and take care of any issues either before they happen or as soon as they come up.

We are not doctors, but we want to give the best advice we can about recognizing dehydration and ensuring you’re hydrated while in the hot tub. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns with your family doctor or a medical professional if are worried about dehydration.

If you want to talk about hot tubs though, we are happy to help! Please reach out to your local retailer if you have any questions.