Can Kids Go in Hot Tubs? – Safety Guide For Parents

You don’t have to be an adult to be drawn to a hot tub. Many children also love the appeal, but is it a good idea to put children in hot tubs? Parents may question it because the temperature is going to be much warmer than your average swimming pool, among other safety concerns. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that hot tubs have to be completely off-limits. Following a few simple guidelines can make hot tubs enjoyable for the entire family.

Safety Concerns for Children in Hot Tubs

While the American Academy of Pediatrics does not ban hot tub use by children, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that children under the age of 5 steers clear of hot tubs. Children should also never be in a hot tub unsupervised. If older children are in a hot tub with an adult, there are safety concerns to be aware of. 

Hot Temperature

According to the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), most hot tubs are preset to reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This is extremely hot for a child. Children can overheat because blood vessels dilate and speed up the absorption of heat, preventing sweat from evaporating like it normally does. 

Extreme water temperature can also lead to heatstroke or even loss of consciousness. If children are going to be in the hot tub, be sure to turn down the temperature before they come in. The PHTA recommends turning the temperature down to 98 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s also recommended that children don’t completely immerse themselves in the hot tub. If they can use a seat inside the hot tub, that’s a better choice.

Time Limits

It’s also a good idea to set time limits for children in hot tubs. Five minutes is the recommended time for kids in hot tubs and should never exceed 15 minutes at once.

Height

If a child is going to spend time in a hot tub, they should be able to stand in the hot tub with their head completely out of the water. If they’re too small to do so, you may want to wait to put them in the hot tub until they get taller.

Suction Drain

The suction drain is another cause of concern for children. If a child goes underwater in the hot tub, their hair could get stuck in the drain. This could lead to drowning. Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1-14. Even if a child is not using the hot tub, it’s a good idea to keep it covered when no one is around to prevent any drowning accidents.

Maintenance

Whether it’s adults or children in hot tubs, you always want to make sure the chemicals are balanced to prevent bacteria and skin irritations. You can see the chemical make-up of your hot tub water by simply using a test strip. This will tell you which chemical levels may need to be adjusted. Keeping up on filter replacement will also ensure that your hot tub is safe for everyone.

The Bottom Line on Children in Hot Tubs

Hot tubs can be safe for children if the right precautions are taken. This starts with making sure that no children under the age of 5 are in the hot tub. When kids are in the hot tub, turn down the temperature. Also, be sure they can stand up with their head completely out of the water and limit the time they spend.

You also want to be sure they steer clear of suction drains to prevent drowning. Keeping the hot tub covered when it’s not being used is also a good idea.

With the proper supervision, children can enjoy relaxing time in a hot tub with their families whether they’re at home or on vacation.

Contact Epic Hot Tubs Today!

Epic Hot Tubs is a locally owned and operated hot tub company serving Raleigh and the surrounding area. Please feel free to contact us at 888-884-3742 for any inquiries or any general questions.

About The Author:

Manny Brambila

Pool & Spa Expert

Manny has been in the Pool & Spa industry for over 15 years and is considered a pool, swim spa, & hot tub expert. He has been a Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) since 2009 and worked 15 years in aquatic training and development for the largest pool chemical and customer care company. He also has been an outside consultant for the Pool and Spa industry in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles since 2018. In the past few years Manny has become Director of Operations for Epic Hot Tubs with a priority of providing customers with the most reliable information and best service possible.