Your Hot Tub, Your Responsibility

A hot tub is often the highlight of a lodge holiday. After a long walk or a day exploring the countryside, there's nothing quite like sinking into warm, bubbling water under the stars. But to keep that water safe and inviting for everyone in your group — and for the guests who come after you — it needs a little care. The good news is that maintaining a hot tub during your stay is not difficult. It just means following the owner's guidance, keeping an eye on a few simple things, and speaking up if something doesn't look right.

Getting to Grips with Chemicals

Water chemistry is the foundation of a healthy hot tub. The owner will have left test strips and a small supply of chemicals, along with instructions specific to their tub. Read those instructions first — every hot tub is slightly different. As a general rule, you should test the water at least once a day, ideally before the first soak. The two key readings are pH and sanitiser level. pH should sit between 7.2 and 7.6. If it's too high, the sanitiser works less effectively; too low, and the water can corrode parts and irritate skin. For sanitiser, chlorine should be 3–5 parts per million (ppm), or bromine 4–6 ppm if the tub uses bromine instead.

• Test before first use each day. Dip a strip, wait the recommended time, and compare the colours. Don't guess.
• Add chemicals sparingly. Sprinkle them into the water with the jets running, then wait at least 20–30 minutes before getting in. Never pour chemicals directly onto anyone in the tub.
• Never mix chemicals together. Add one at a time, and always use the measuring scoop provided. Overdosing can damage the hot tub and cause skin rashes.

If the readings seem off and you're not sure what to do, contact the owner or the number in your welcome pack. They would much rather answer a quick question than have you guess and cause a problem.

The Cover: More Than Just a Lid

The insulated cover is one of the most important pieces of equipment. It keeps heat in, stops leaves and rain getting in, and provides a vital safety barrier when the tub isn't in use. Always remove the cover completely before getting in — don't fold it back halfway and leave it dangling. When you're finished, replace it and secure any straps, especially if the weather is windy. Never sit or stand on the cover; it's not designed to take weight and can crack. If the cover feels heavy or waterlogged, mention it to the owner. A quick wipe with a mild soapy cloth now and then will keep it clean, but avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the vinyl.

Filters: The Unsung Heroes

Filters quietly trap hair, dead skin, lotions, and debris, keeping the water clear. During your stay, check the filter at least once — often it's a cartridge that sits behind a small panel. Turn off the jets, remove the cartridge, and rinse it with a garden hose. If it looks greasy or clogged, a longer rinse or a soak in filter cleaner (if provided) will help. Never run the hot tub without a filter in place, as debris can damage the pump. If you've been wearing fake tan, heavy sunscreen, or body lotion, rinse the filter more often. A dirty filter is one of the most common causes of cloudy water, and it's an easy fix.

Cloudy Water? Don't Panic, Report It

Cloudy or milky water is a clear sign that something is out of balance. It might be low sanitiser, high pH, a clogged filter, or a build-up of oils from bathers. Do not simply add more chlorine and hope for the best. That can make the problem worse and irritate everyone's skin. Instead, stop using the hot tub and contact the owner or manager straight away. They can advise you over the phone or arrange for someone to check it. The same goes for any unusual odours, a gritty feel to the water, or if anyone develops a rash or itchy skin after soaking. Report it promptly so the issue can be resolved — and so the next guests aren't left with a problem. If you notice a leak, strange noise, or error message on the control panel, report that too.

Good Manners and Safe Soaking

Finally, a few habits that keep the water cleaner and everyone happier. Shower before you get in to remove sweat, creams, and dirt. No glass near the hot tub — use plastic or cans. Avoid eating in the water, and don't take phones or books in unless they're waterproof. Limit soaks to around 15–20 minutes at a time, and get out if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Children must be supervised at all times. If you're pregnant, have a heart condition, or are on medication, check with a doctor before using a hot tub. Keep noise levels considerate, especially late at night in a rural retreat. Don't adjust the temperature without asking the owner, and leave the tub as you found it: cover on, jets off, and water topped up if the owner asked you to. A little care goes a long way, and it means everyone can enjoy a safe, relaxing soak.