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Can Kids Go in Hot Tubs? Hot Tub Safety for Kids
Hot tubs are a perfect spot to relax and catch up with family and friends, but are they really safe for all ages? Find out.
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.
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Kids in hot tubs at a glance
Age 5and up
CDC-recommended minimum age
98°Ffor kids
PHTA kid-safe temp, down from 104°F
15 minat most
never exceed at once; 5 min is recommended
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 steer 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.
Pro Insight • Epic Hot Tubs Service Team
“The families who actually stick to soak limits make it a routine, not a negotiation. Start a visible phone timer before anyone climbs in, and have the kids perch on a cooler upper seat instead of soaking chin-deep. When the timer goes off, everybody takes a break to cool down.”
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.
Pro Insight • Epic Hot Tubs Service Team
“We tell parents to treat the cover like a pool fence: the soak is not over until the cover is back on and latched. A tub that sits open between uses is far easier for a curious kid to reach than one that is closed up, so make latching it the last step of every session.”
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.
What Is a Safe Hot Tub Temperature for Kids?
Ensuring a safe hot tub temperature for kids is critical for their comfort and well-being. The Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) suggests setting the hot tub temp for kids at 98 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly lower than the standard 104 degrees Fahrenheit used for adults. This lower temperature helps prevent overheating, which can occur quickly in young children due to their smaller bodies and less developed thermoregulation. Before allowing kids in the hot tub, use a reliable thermometer to confirm the water is at a safe hot tub temperature for kids. Always monitor children closely, as even a safe temperature can become uncomfortable if they stay in too long.
| Guideline | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 5 years and older (CDC recommendation) |
| Safe Hot Tub Temperature | 98°F (PHTA guideline) |
| Time Limit | 5-15 minutes per session |
| Supervision | Constant adult supervision required |
| Water Depth | Child’s head must be fully above water when standing |
| Chemical Balance | Test water regularly to prevent skin irritation |
Why Can’t Kids Go in Hot Tubs? Understanding the Risks
Parents often wonder, “Why can’t kids go in hot tubs?” The primary reasons involve physiological and safety risks. Young children, especially those under 5, are more susceptible to overheating because their bodies absorb heat faster than adults. This can lead to serious conditions like heatstroke or dehydration. Additionally, hot tubs pose risks like drowning due to suction drains or slips on wet surfaces. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises against hot tub use for kids under 5, as their bodies are less equipped to handle high temperatures and prolonged exposure. Understanding these risks helps parents make informed decisions about kids in hot tubs.
How to Prepare Your Hot Tub for Kids
Preparing your hot tub for kids involves a few key steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Start by testing the water with a test strip to confirm the chemicals are balanced, as unbalanced water can cause skin irritations for children. Next, lower the hot tub temperature to 98 degrees Fahrenheit and verify it with a thermometer. Check that the hot tub cover is secure when not in use to prevent accidental access. Finally, ensure the area around the hot tub is slip-free by adding non-slip mats. These preparations make it safer for kids in hot tubs and give parents peace of mind.
Pro Insight • Epic Hot Tubs Service Team
“A common question we get: I turned the dial down, so why is the water still hot? A big body of hot water takes time to cool. Lower the setting well before the kids want to get in, and trust a thermometer in the water rather than the number you just punched into the panel.”
What Are the Benefits of Hot Tubs for Kids?
While safety is paramount, hot tubs can offer benefits for kids when used correctly. A short soak at a safe hot tub temperature can promote relaxation, helping children unwind after a busy day. For kids with muscle soreness from sports, the warm water may provide gentle relief, though parents should consult a pediatrician first. Additionally, hot tubs can be a fun family bonding activity, creating lasting memories. However, these benefits are only safe with constant supervision, limited soak times, and proper water temperature, ensuring kids in hot tubs stay comfortable and protected.
Can Kids Go in a Jacuzzi? Key Considerations
Many parents ask, “Can kids go in a jacuzzi?” A jacuzzi is essentially a brand of hot tub, so the same safety guidelines apply. Whether you’re at home or a resort with a jacuzzi, ensure the water temperature is lowered to 98 degrees Fahrenheit for kids over 5, and limit their soak time to 5-15 minutes. Supervision is crucial, as jacuzzis often have powerful jets that can be overwhelming for children. By following the same precautions as with any hot tub, kids can safely enjoy a jacuzzi experience under careful adult supervision.
FAQ About Kids in Hot Tubs
What Age Can Kids Go in a Hot Tub?
The CDC recommends that children under the age of 5 stay out of hot tubs. Kids 5 and older can use one as long as the water temperature is turned down to 98 degrees Fahrenheit, they can stand with their head completely out of the water, an adult supervises them at all times, and each soak is kept short.
Are Hot Tubs Bad for Kids?
Hot tubs are not automatically off-limits for kids, but standard settings are designed for adults. The main risks for children are overheating, since their bodies absorb heat faster than adults, and drowning hazards such as suction drains. With the temperature lowered to 98 degrees Fahrenheit, constant adult supervision, and short soak times, children over 5 can enjoy a hot tub safely.
How Long Can Kids Stay in a Hot Tub?
Five minutes is the recommended soak time for kids in a hot tub, and a session should never exceed 15 minutes at once. Rather than full immersion, have kids sit on a seat inside the hot tub so more of their body stays out of the water.
What Are the CDC Guidelines for Children in Hot Tubs?
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that children under the age of 5 steer clear of hot tubs, and children of any age should never be in a hot tub unsupervised. Pair that with the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance guideline of lowering the water temperature to 98 degrees Fahrenheit whenever kids are soaking.
What Temperature Can a Baby Go in a Hot Tub?
There is no recommended hot tub temperature for babies. The CDC advises that children under the age of 5, including infants and toddlers, stay out of hot tubs entirely. Once a child is 5 or older, lower the water to 98 degrees Fahrenheit, per the PHTA, before they get in.
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, some children can enjoy relaxing time in a hot tub with their families whether they’re at home or on vacation.
Kids are not the only ones who need extra precautions around warm water. If anyone in your household is expecting, our guide to hot tub safety during pregnancy covers what to know before the next soak.
Have questions, or want to see options in person? Stop by any of our five North Carolina showrooms and talk it through with our team: Raleigh, Durham, Sanford, Charlotte, or North Charlotte. We are open 7 days a week, no appointment needed.
About The Author:
Richard Horvath
Hot Tub & Spa Expert
Richard has been in the hot tub & spa industry for years. As a long hot tub & swim spa owner himself, Richard has a passion for helping homeowners create their dream backyard.
