The Ideal Hot Tub Temperature – How Hot Should it be?
Whether you’re looking to soothe sore muscles, relieve stress, or improve sleep, setting your hot tub to the right temperature can make all the difference. In fact, a question we’re often asked is how hot should a hot tub be?
Of course, the right hot tub temperature is (in part) a question of personal preference – comfort levels, age, health, and how you plan to use the tub – but, the ideal hot tub temperature also plays a role in your health, safety, and the therapeutic benefits you get from soaking in your hot tub.
With that in mind, let’s explore the sweet spot for water temperature and how it can support both body and mind.
What’s the ideal hot tub temperature?
We recommend keeping your hot tub between (37.5°C and 40°C). This range is warm enough to deliver the soothing benefits of hydrotherapy while remaining safe for most adults. For therapeutic soaks, so muscle relief and stress reduction we recommend being at the higher end of this temperature range (39/40°C). For children, pregnant women, or those with health concerns, it’s safer to set your hot tub temperature at the lower end of this temperature range (37.5°C).
Wellbeing benefits
You can experience a surprising number of wellbeing benefits when your hot tub temperature is just right:
1. Stress relief and mental clarity
The warm water encourages your body to release endorphins, the natural feel-good hormones. Combined with the buoyancy of water, which reduces the weight on your joints, a soak can help calm your nervous system and reduce stress. Many people find their mind feels clearer, calmer, and more present after just 15–20 minutes in a hot tub.
2. Improved sleep quality
Struggling with restless nights? The gentle rise in body temperature from soaking at an ideal hot tub temperature can help regulate your circadian rhythm. As your body cools after leaving the tub, it signals to your brain that it’s time to rest. This natural process can promote deeper, more restorative sleep.
3. Muscle relaxation and pain relief
Warm water encourages blood vessels to dilate, improving circulation. Better blood flow means sore muscles, stiff joints, and even tension headaches may ease more quickly. For those recovering from exercise, a soak can reduce soreness and support recovery.
4. Cardiovascular support
Interestingly, spending time in a hot tub can mimic some of the effects of light exercise. Your heart rate increases slightly, and your blood pressure may lower.
Safety tips for hot tub use
Limit soak times: 15-30 minutes is usually enough, especially at higher temperatures.
Adults with heart disease or pregnant women: If you have heart disease or you are pregnant, it’s important to check with your doctor before using a hot tub.
Children: Children under the age of 2 should not use a hot tub. All children should be supervised in a hot tub (with the temperature set at 37.5°C or lower) and their soak time kept to a minimum (15 minutes maximum).
Stay hydrated: Warm water can cause dehydration more quickly, so drink water before and after your soak.
Listen to your body: If you feel lightheaded, overheated, or uncomfortable, step out and cool down.
Check regularly: If you think your hot tub’s temperature settings are faulty, don’t use your hot tub. Call a hot tub engineer and they will check it and make any necessary repairs.
