Hot tubs can be a wonderful way to relax, but if you're pregnant or have young kids, you may wonder if soaking is safe. In-home hot tubs offer the comfort of privacy and control over water care, yet the same health precautions applyas with any spa. High water temperatures can affect our bodies in significant ways. Below, we break down expert-backed guidelines – from organisations like the CDC, ACOG, and paediatric specialists – to help families enjoy their hot tub safely.
Key Takeaways
- Pregnant people: Avoid hot tubs during early pregnancy. If soaking later on, limit to ≤10 minutes, keep water under 38 °C (100 °F), and never submerge your torso.
- Children under 5: Should never use a hot tub. Their bodies can't handle the heat, and drowning risks are high – even with supervision.
- Children 5–10 years: May be allowed brief supervised soaks only if the temperature is lowered to ~37 °C (98 °F) and they sit with upper body out of the water. 5 minutes max at a time.
- Teens: Can tolerate heat more like adults, but still need limits, hydration, and supervision. No solo soaking.
- General family safety: Always check water temp, enforce calm behaviour, avoid food/glassware, keep hair tied back, and lock the cover when not in use.
- When in doubt: Speak to a healthcare provider before letting a child or pregnant person use the hot tub.
Hot Tub Use During Pregnancy
Is It Safe to Use a Hot Tub While Pregnant?
Medical experts urge caution with hot tubs during pregnancy. The primary concern is overheating: hot tub water (often set around 39–40 °C (102–104 °F)) can raise your core body temperature above normal. Pregnant people are advised to avoid getting too hot because it can potentially harm the developing baby. In fact, the CDC explicitly recommends that expecting parents stay away from hot tubs or any situation that might cause overheating, as a precaution to help prevent birth defects [1]. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) likewise says it’s best not to use saunas or hot tubs in early pregnancy, since studies have linked prolonged high body temperatures with certain birth defects in the first trimester [2].
Why Is Overheating Risky?
Early in pregnancy (especially the first 12 weeks when the baby’s brain and spinal cord are forming), elevated core temperatures have been associated with neural tube defects – serious abnormalities of the brain or spine in the foetus. For example, research shows that spending more than about 10 minutes in a typical hot tub can raise an adult’s internal temperature above 38.3 °C (101 °F) [3]. Such high maternal temperatures in the first trimester are linked to a slight increase in the risk of these birth defects [3]. Overheating may also contribute to dehydration or fainting in the pregnant parent, which can be dangerous for both parent and baby.
Later in Pregnancy
The risk of heat-related birth defects is lower later in pregnancy (since critical organ development happens early), but that doesn’t mean hot tubs become “safe”. Pregnant individuals can still overheat or become lightheaded in hot water at any stage. As pregnancy progresses, you may also feel faint more easily in high temperatures. For these reasons, many healthcare providers advise avoiding hot tub use throughout pregnancy. If you’re tempted to take a dip, it’s wise to talk with your doctor or midwife first about your specific situation [4].
Safe Soaking Guidelines for Pregnancy
If your healthcare provider gives the go-ahead for a brief soak (and you’re past the most critical first trimester), be sure to follow strict safety guidelines to keep your body temperature from spiking:
- Keep it Short and Warm, Not Hot: Limit your time in the tub to no more than 10 minutes at a stretch [3]. The longer you stay, the more your core temperature can rise. It’s also wise to turn down the thermostat – for example, to around 36–38 °C (97–100 °F) instead of the default 40 °C (104 °F) – so the water is closer to your body temperature.
- Don’t Submerge Your Whole Body: Sit on a raised seat or step so your upper body – chest, shoulders, arms, and head – remains above the water [3]. This allows heat to dissipate more easily. Avoid immersing your belly and chest fully; keeping your torso cooler helps protect your core temperature.
- Avoid the Hottest Spots: Stay away from areas near heat inlets or jets that pump in hot water [3]. These spots can be significantly hotter than the rest of the tub. Choose a seat farther from the direct heat flow.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel. At the first sign of feeling too warm, dizzy, faint, or nauseous – get out immediately [3]. Pregnancy can reduce your heat tolerance, so don’t push through it. Cool down slowly and sip water if you’re overheating.
- Never Soak Alone: It’s safest to have someone nearby when you use the hot tub. Pregnant people can become lightheaded, and a companion can assist if you suddenly feel unwell.
- Stay Hydrated: Even in water, warm environments cause you to sweat. Sip cool water before and after your soak to help prevent dehydration.
- Consider Alternatives: If you're seeking relaxation or relief, try a warm (not hot) bath, foot soak, or a short shower. You can also use a heating pad on sore areas. These provide comfort without raising your whole-body temperature as much as a full-body soak.
And remember: When in doubt, skip the hot tub. There’s no harm in erring on the side of caution. The luxury of a soak isn’t worth the risk of overheating during pregnancy. If you’re unsure, check with your healthcare provider about what’s safe for your situation.
Why Hot Tubs Pose Risks to Kids
Kids love water, but hot tubs are not the same as pools or bathtubs – the high heat and design of spas pose unique dangers for children. Young children are particularly vulnerable in hot tubs for several reasons:
- Overheating: Children’s bodies heat up faster than adults’. Young kids can’t regulate their temperature as well, so hot water can raise their core temperature very quickly. A child can become overheated or dehydrated before they even notice. Experts note that children under 5 are especially high risk for overheating in hot tubs [5].
- Drowning Risk: Hot tubs are usually deeper than kiddie pools and have strong jets. A child can drown in just a few inches of water – especially if they slip underwater or lose consciousness from heat. Swirling water and bubbles can make it harder to see when something is wrong. Sadly, accidents have happened even when kids were left unattended for just a moment. That’s why multiple safety organisations warn against allowing children under 5 in hot tubs at all [6].
- Suction & Entrapment: Hot tubs use powerful suction outlets to circulate water. These can pose entrapment hazards if a child’s long hair, swimsuit tie, or even body part becomes caught – especially if a safety drain cover is faulty. While modern tubs have built-in protections, it’s still a risk if children are playing underwater.
- Sanitation & Chemical Sensitivity: Warm water is a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly sanitised. Kids are more likely to swallow water or get it up their nose, which increases infection risk. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that young children are more susceptible to skin infections like hot tub rash caused by waterborne bacteria, especially when they stay in the tub longer or have more sensitive skin [6]. And if a child is not fully potty-trained, any “accident” in the tub can contaminate the water – creating a health hazard for everyone. While chemicals like chlorine or bromine are generally safe at correct levels, children's skin and eyes are more sensitive to chemical imbalances.
Guidelines by Age: Who Can Use a Hot Tub?
Infants and Toddlers (0–4 years)
Children under 5 years old should never be in a hot tub [6]. This is a firm rule supported by paediatric safety experts and the CDC. At this young age, children's bodies are simply not equipped to handle heat stress. They also can't reliably keep their heads above water or understand the danger. The combination of high temperature and drowning risk makes hot tubs unsafe – even if you're holding the child in your lap. It’s best to wait until your child is older before even considering letting them join you in the spa. (If you have a baby at home, you might use the hot tub yourself with the precautions above, but have another adult watch the little one – never bring a baby into the tub with you.)
Young Children (Around 5–10 years)
Use extreme caution. Most experts recommend waiting until a child is at least 5 years old – and even then, only for a very short, closely supervised soak [5]. If you decide to let a school-age child use the hot tub, ensure:
- They are tall enough to stand with their head fully above water [5] (usually around 7 or 8 years old).
- They can follow safety rules – like sitting still and not submerging.
- The water temperature is reduced to about 37 °C (98 °F).
- They are limited to 5 minutes at a time, and no more than 10–15 minutes total [5].
- They take a break between sessions to cool off.
- They sit on a raised bench or step so their upper body stays above the water [5].
In short: short durations, lower water temperatures, and constant supervision are essential for this age group.
Preteens and Teens
By the time kids reach their preteen or teenage years, their bodies handle heat more like adults do. They can typically tolerate hot tub temperatures a bit better – but rules and moderation still apply.
- They may use standard temperatures (around 39–40 °C (102–104 °F)) – but should still limit soaks to 10 minutes.
- They should never soak unattended.
- They must understand and follow safety rules: no horseplay, no alcohol or energy drinks, and stay hydrated.
- Use the buddy system – teens shouldn’t use the hot tub alone in case of fainting or a health issue.
- If they have a medical condition (e.g. heart issues, seizures, medications), consult a doctor first.
Additional Safety Tips for Families
No matter your child’s age, if they’re using the hot tub – or even just playing near it – these safety tips apply:
- Adult Supervision is a Must: An adult should actively supervise at all times. That means eyes on the child and within arm’s reach when a young child is in the water. Drowning can happen silently and in seconds. Consider assigning a “water watcher” – a designated adult who isn’t distracted by phones or conversation while kids are in or near the spa.
- Enforce Hot Tub Rules:Set firm safety rules:
- No jumping or diving – hot tubs are too shallow.
- No running on the wet deck area.
- No underwater breath-holding or dunking games.
- Long Hair & Loose Items: If your child has long hair, tie it up securely before entering the hot tub. This prevents hair from being pulled into suction intakes. Also remove jewellery or loose accessories that could get caught in drains or jets. While many modern hot tubs feature dual suction outlets and anti-entrapment drain covers, it’s still safest to minimise the risk.
- Mind the Temperature: Always double-check the water temperature using a thermometer before your child gets in. Don’t rely on how it feels to you – children are more sensitive to heat. Stick to the safer range of 37 °C (98 °F) for kids, or even slightly lower if they’ll be in for more than a couple of minutes. If your spa doesn’t allow you to set an exact temperature, know that 40 °C (104 °F) – the factory max – is too hot for children. Reducing it a few degrees or mixing in cooler water can dramatically improve safety.
- Time Out of Water: Encourage frequent breaks. A good rule of thumb is a few minutes in, a few minutes out. For example, if a child has been soaking for 5 minutes, have them exit, dry off, and cool down before deciding if another brief soak is appropriate. Watch for signs of overheating – flushed cheeks, lethargy, dizziness, or complaints of feeling too warm. If you notice any of these, end their hot tub time and help them cool off.
- Hydration: Kids (and adults) should sip cool water when using a hot tub to stay hydrated [5]. The warm environment can dehydrate them quickly – even if they don’t feel it. Keep a glass of cold water nearby. Never let children drink the hot tub water – it may contain chemicals or bacteria.
- Secure the Tub When Not in Use: One of the most important safety measures is using a locking cover when the hot tub is unattended. Always keep the cover on and latched, or restrict access to the area [5]. Curious kids might try to climb in when you’re not watching – a serious hazard. For outdoor tubs, consider installing a safety fence or gate (like you would for a pool) for extra peace of mind.
- Keep It Clean:Maintain proper hygiene in your hot tub. This means:
- Regularly testing disinfectant (chlorine or bromine) and pH levels
- Showering before entering
- Cleaning filters and replacing the water per manufacturer guidelines
- No Food or Glassware in the Tub: Avoid eating while in the hot tub – crumbs and spills affect water quality, and warm water can upset tummies. Never use glass cups or bottles in or near the tub; broken glass is hard to spot in water and very dangerous. Stick to plastic, unbreakable drinkware.
By enforcing these simple habits, you create a safer environment for your children around the hot tub. It might sound like a lot at first, but these precautions soon become second nature – and help your family enjoy the spa with peace of mind.
In Summary
Hot tubs can be enjoyed by the whole family if you follow a few simple safety guidelines and use common sense. Pregnant people and young children are more vulnerable to the effects of hot water, so they require extra precautions – and in some cases, it’s best for them to avoid the hot tub altogether.
Always prioritise safety over a few minutes of soak time. By keeping the water at a safe temperature, limiting exposure, maintaining hygiene, and supervising closely, you can ensure your home hot tub remains a safe haven of relaxation for you and your loved ones.
If you’re ever unsure about what’s safe, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. With the right care, your in-home spa can provide comfort and connection without compromising anyone’s health. Enjoy your hot tub responsibly [4].
References
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Birth Defects Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/prevention/index.html
[2] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Can I Use a Sauna or Hot Tub Early in Pregnancy? Available at: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/ask-acog/can-i-use-a-sauna-or-hot-tub-early-in-pregnancy
[3]Mayo Clinic Health System (MyMLC).Pregnancy and Hot Tubs: What's the Risk? Available at: https://www.mymlc.com/health-information/faqs/p/pregnancy-and-hot-tubs-whats-the-risk
[4]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Staying Healthy in Hot Tubs. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-swimming/safety/what-you-can-do-to-stay-healthy-in-hot-tubs.html
[5]Parents Magazine.Hot Tub Safety for Kids. Available at: https://www.parents.com/hot-tub-safety-for-kids-8643762
[6]American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org.Skin Rashes and Safety Concerns in Hot Water. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/skin/Pages/Common-Summertime-Skin-Rashes-in-Children.aspx
