If you enjoy taking ice baths, or if you are looking to purchase a tub, you know how important it is to keep your cold tub clean. Not only can a dirty tub be unpleasant to use, but it can also be a breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to infections and illness, and dirty slimy tubs are just plain gross. Especially if you are an athlete that uses your ice bath regularly, or after a sweaty work out.
One of our most-asked questions by our customers is something like: "How can I keep my cold+hot tub clean, clear and hygienic?" The good news is, a dirty tub is completely avoidable, and there are several steps you can take to keep your cold tub clean and sanitary.
This concise guide provides essential information for maintaining and caring for a cold tub, and ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Best Practices
- Ensure the tub is properly covered when not in use to prevent debris and contamination.
- It is a good idea to shower before using the cold tub so detergents, lotions, and body oils do not affect water quality.
- Follow manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning and maintenance routines.
- Is is a good idea to completely drain the water every 3-4 weeks regardless of your cleaning habits, just to refresh with clean water. Your body will leave dirt, sweat, and oils from skin and hygiene products behind in the water, so the best way to completely avoid water from becoming poor quality is to empty and fill with fresh water.
Regular Care
- Daily Maintenance: Skim debris and wipe the inside walls of the tub with a sponge or cloth. Check water clarity.
- Weekly Maintenance: Check water clarity, filter cleanliness, and empty water if it gets cloudy/slimy/murky.
- Monthly Maintenance: Clean filters and inspect tub components for wear.
How to Sanitize the Water All-Natural & Chemical-Free
- Mineral Salt: Add 1/2 lb (per 100L water) mineral salts to promote water softness, skin health, and most importantly, anti-microbial effects.
- Baking Soda: Use 4-5 Tbsp or 1 small handful (per 100L water) baking soda to stabilize pH levels and enhance water clarity.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Add 1 cups (per 100L water) of hydrogen peroxide as an oxidizer to break down organic matter and maintain cleanliness.
How to Change the Water
- Drain the tub completely using the drain valve, and run the drain hose to an outside location.
- Clean the interior with mild soap and water, wipe down with a sponge or cloth, then rinse thoroughly.
- Refill with fresh water and add the sanitizers to the water.
What Does UV Filtration Do?
- UV filtration systems use ultraviolet light to neutralize bacteria and pathogens in the water.
- They are effective at reducing the need for chemical sanitizers and maintaining water clarity. Combined with a high concentration of mineral salt, it does an excellent job at filtering the water and keeping you tub clean.
How to Choose the Best Cold Tub
The top 4 things to consider when buying a cold tub are:
Tub size:
If you want a more spacious tub, or you are a larger athlete, or you want to be able to fit 2 people, you need to choose a tub that is adequate. Most tubs are very small and can fit 1 (very small) person. Choose a tub with enough leg room for you (and a 2nd person, if you wish).
Quality of Materials:
Many cold tubs brands are shipping poor quality tubs and temperature units from overseas manufacturers with little-to-no quality control. Make sure to find a cold tub that is designed in the U.S. that offers a warranty and a return policy.
Price:
What is your price point? Cold tubs range from under $100 if you just want a tub, and don't mind using your own ice, to $5000+ if you want a professional setup with automatic water temperature control and a self-cleaning filtration system.
Features:
Look for features like energy efficiency, built in filtration with easy maintenance, easy drainage systems and durable covers for longevity.
Suggestion:
Colderatti is a U.S. based company that offers premium tubs with quality materials, rapid automatic water cooling (and heating in some models), and automatic filtration to keep the water crystal clear.
There are a few options at different price points and sizes depending on your needs. Having a Colderatti Cold Plunge allows you to enjoy the benefits of cold and heat therapy conveniently, with clean and clear water.