---
title: 7 Things You Should Never Do in a Hot Tub (And Why)
description: Learn 7 things you should never do in a hot tub, from drinking alcohol to skipping maintenance. Stay safe and maximize your soaking benefits.
image: https://blog.watsons.com/hubfs/Relaxing%20In%20Hot%20Tub%201.jpg
---
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# 7 Things You Should Never Do in a Hot Tub (And Why)
Posted by [Watson's](https://blog.watsons.com/blog/author/watsons) on Aug 19, 2025 1:47:36 PM
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Hot tubs are meant to be relaxing, rejuvenating, and enjoyable. But as safe as they are when used properly, they can become risky if misused. Whether you’re a new owner or a seasoned soaker, it’s important to understand what **not to do in a hot tub**.
Here are **7 common mistakes to avoid**—and why each one matters.
## [](https://www.watsons.com/spa/spa-hot-tub)
## **1. Don’t Stay in Too Long**
Hot tubs are warm and soothing, but staying in past **15–30 minutes** can lead to dehydration, dizziness, or overheating.
**Why it matters:** Prolonged soaks raise your body temperature and stress your cardiovascular system. Taking breaks keeps you safe and refreshed.
👉 Learn more: [**How Long Should You Stay in a Hot Tub? The Safe Soaking Guide**](https://blog.watsons.com/blog/how-long-should-you-stay-in-a-hot-tub-the-safe-soaking-guide)
## **2. Don’t Drink Alcohol While Soaking**
Alcohol and hot water don’t mix. A soak can **intensify the effects of alcohol**, leading to drowsiness, dehydration, or even unconsciousness.
**Why it matters:** Your judgment, balance, and blood pressure can be affected, making it dangerous to soak after drinking.
## **3. Don’t Skip Showering Before You Get In**
It may seem harmless, but skipping a rinse introduces **lotions, oils, sweat, and dirt** into the water.
**Why it matters:** These contaminants strain your filtration system, affect water chemistry, and can lead to skin irritation.
## **4. Don’t Forget to Stay Hydrated**
The heat in a hot tub causes your body to sweat, even if you don’t notice it.
**Why it matters:** Without drinking water before and after soaking, you may become dehydrated and lightheaded. Keep a bottle of water nearby.
## **5. Don’t Use Glassware in the Hot Tub**
That wine glass may look elegant, but broken glass in or around a hot tub is dangerous.
**Why it matters:** Even small shards are nearly impossible to see in water and could cause serious injuries. Always use plastic, acrylic, or stainless-steel drinkware.
## **6. Don’t Leave Children Unsupervised**
Children should never be left alone in or near a hot tub.
**Why it matters:** Kids are more sensitive to heat, and accidents can happen quickly. Always supervise and limit children’s soak time to **5–10 minutes at lower temps**.
## **7. Don’t Neglect Regular Maintenance**
A hot tub’s safety and comfort depend on clean, balanced water.
**Why it matters:** Skipping maintenance can cause cloudy water, bacterial growth, or skin irritation. Regular testing, cleaning, and filter changes keep your spa safe and inviting.
## **Final Thoughts: Hot Tub Safety = More Enjoyment**
Avoiding these common mistakes ensures that your hot tub remains a place of **relaxation, health, and fun**. By practicing good habits and soaking smart, you’ll maximize benefits while keeping risks at bay.
## **Learn More About Hot Tub Wellness**
Want to discover the positive side of soaking?
👉 Read our guide: [**8 Surprising Health Benefits of Soaking in a Hot Tub Regularly**](https://blog.watsons.com/blog/8-surprising-health-benefits-of-soaking-in-a-hot-tub-regularly)
## Get a Same Day Spa Quote
## Frequently Asked Questions
### What happens if you don’t maintain your hot tub?
Poor maintenance can lead to **bacteria growth, cloudy water, and skin irritation**. It also shortens the lifespan of your hot tub components.
### What temperature should I set my hot tub to?
The maximum safe temperature is **104°F**. Most people prefer **100–102°F** for comfort and longer soaks.
Topics: [Spas and Hot Tubs](https://blog.watsons.com/blog/tag/spas-and-hot-tubs)
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