Hot tubs and pools are a wonderful way to relax and unwind, but they do pose risks to kids. Small children shouldn’t use hot tubs because they’re not able to dissipate heat as well as adults. Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer, but here are some things you should be mindful of when considering whether or not a hot tub is safe for your family.

Hot Tub Risks for Kids

Neither the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) nor the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued specific guidelines for hot tub use by children, but the Center for Disease Control (CDC) advises that kids under age 5 shouldn’t use them. Most tubs are 104°F (40°C) which can be extremely hot and therefore dangerous for a young person who’s not yet able to regulate their body temperature like an adult can. Kids also may not be able to communicate about their discomfort.

Drowning is the most serious hazard connected with any body of water, including hot tubs and pools. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), drowning is the leading cause of death in U.S. children between the ages of 1 and 4. Children can drown in as little as a few inches of water. Suction drains, which are typically located at the bottom of a tub are also a safety concern because they’re strong enough to endanger a small child.

If you own a hot tub you should always be knowledgeable and vigilant about maintaining the correct balance of chemicals to keep the tub safe and sanitary. Not keeping up on the cleaning practices could result in bacteria and the spread of diseases from gastrointestinal illnesses to hot tub rash and swimmer’s ear. If you’re using a public tub you can ask how often the chemical and pH levels are checked and when the latest inspection was. 

How Can Kids Safely Use a Hot Tub?

If you’re considering allowing your kids to use a hot tub, make sure you turn the temperature down first. We recommend adjusting your water temperature to 95°F (35°C) instead of the usual 104°F (40°C) when children are using it. It’s safer for kids to sit on benches or jump seats that allow for partial immersion and children should be limited to 5-15 minutes before popping out to cool down. 

Children shouldn’t be allowed in hot tubs ideally, unless their heads are completely out of the water when they stand on the bottom of the tub and they should always be supervised. To help prevent accidental drownings, hot tubs should be equipped with locking covers and surrounded by fencing that’s inaccessible to young children. 

A well-chlorinated hot tub has little odor, so a strong chemical smell indicates a chemical maintenance problem. Pool and hot tub disinfectant test strips are available at local home improvement stores and pool supply stores and you should be testing the water frequently as well as keeping up with deep cleaning practices. 

Owning and maintaining a hot tub can seem overwhelming, but we’re here to help so the whole family can enjoy the relaxing benefits of having one. Give us a call with questions at 970-879-4390 or contact us here.