Hot tubs are famous for relaxation and relieving sore muscles and joints, while Epsom salts are thought to provide healing properties. Most people submerge their bodies in hot tubs or soak various parts in Epsom salts to find relief.
Thus, some may wonder and ask, “Can you put Epsom salt in hot tubs?“, hoping to combine their effects. That is especially since Epsom salts can easily dissolve in water and are safe, affordable, and easy to use.
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What Is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt was first refined in the rushing waters of a saline spring in Surrey County, England, near a town with the same name.
Although it looks almost similar to regular table salt, its chemical composition differs.
Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate, while the latter is sodium chloride.
Health Benefits of Epsom Salt
The high magnesium content in Epsom salt can pass through the skin, relaxing irritated nervous systems and sore muscles while oxygenating the body.
It can also alleviate skin problems, treat cold and congestion, and draw toxins out of the body.
An Epsom salt rub in gel form can heal minor cuts and scrapes.
What’s more, magnesium ion helps reduce irritability by relaxing the mind and regulating the adrenaline effects on your nervous system.
Epsom salt can also balance the electrolytes so the enzymes, muscles, and nerves can function correctly.
It’s for this reason that Epsom salt is widely used for the following conditions:
- Skin irritation and inflammation
- Sore muscles
- Stiff joints
- Sunburn
- Itching because of poison ivy
- Sore feet
- Sprains
- Stress
Some people even use it as an oral treatment for constipation and magnesium deficiency in the blood.
However, there is also a risk of taking too much oral magnesium. Hence, it is still highly recommended to consult your doctor.
Can You Put Epsom Salt in Hot Tubs?
The answer is it depends. You can put it in a wood-fired hot tub but not an electrically-operated one.
As mentioned, the salt has magnesium sulfate, an alkaline compound, which can disturb the hot tub water’s pH level and total alkalinity.
These changes can cause other problems. It may corrode electric hot tub parts.
The unbalanced water may also cause poor sanitizer performance.
Also, the salt increases the water’s TDS or total dissolved solids that you can’t easily drain from the hot tub.
Most manufacturers require hot tub owners to drain and clean the tub before refilling once it reaches 1500 ppm and higher of total dissolved solids.
Failure to follow this maintenance step will void your warranty.
A high TDS level also results in cloudy water and possible scale build-up.
The spa heaters suffer the most when there is scale build-up. Other parts also risk getting damaged if you cannot maintain the correct water balance.
Not only that, but Epsom salt can also corrode the plumbing, leading to flash burns for the users while soaking.
With that in mind, you can always put Epsom salts in your regular bathtub.
Precautions to Keep in Mind Before Having an Epsom Salt Bath
Generally, many consider it safe to soak in an Epsom salt bath. However, if it is your first time to try, do a test patch on your skin using water and magnesium sulfate solution.
As a precautionary measure, never submerge in an Epsom salt bath if you have broken skin.
Stop using the solution if you experience allergic reactions, like rash or hive, skin infection, or itchy skin.
It is also best to check with your doctor because hot water can lower your blood pressure.
How to Use Epsom Salt for Bathing
Note that you need to use warm water instead of hot water to relieve body aches and pains.
That’s because hot water will only worsen the swelling.
Doctors recommend adding the right amount of Epsom salt because using more than the suggested can dry your skin.
A regular bathtub can hold 80 gallons of water, and to feel its therapeutic benefits, you must add at least two cups of Epsom salt into the tub.
On the contrary, a standard hot tub has a water capacity of 400 to 500 gallons.
If you want to get the same healing benefits, you would need 10 to 12 cups of Epsom salt in your spa.
That said, you can follow the formula below if you want a lower salt bath concentration:
- 300 grams to a gallon of water
- One cup to a gallon of water
- 1.5 cups to a bathtub full of water
To use Epsom salts for bathing, simply dissolve the salt in the water completely.
Then go ahead and soak in for a maximum of 15 minutes.
After your Epsom salt bath, drain your bathtub since you should only use saltwater once.
You also need to clean your bathtub before refilling it with fresh water.
What Are the Best Alternatives to Epsom Salt for Hot Tubs?
Since the answer to “Can you put Epsom salt in hot tubs?” is a no if you have an electric unit, what can you use instead?
Try using the following alternative products that offer similar benefits as Epsom salts:
Aromatherapy Crystals
The InSPAration 7495 HTX Relax Therapies Crystals for Spa and Hot Tubs are a fantastic addition to any relaxation routine. These specially formulated crystals are designed to enhance your hot tub experience, providing soothing aromatherapy benefits and promoting relaxation.
One of the standout features of these crystals is their versatility. They come in a variety of delightful scents, including eucalyptus, lavender, and jasmine, allowing you to choose the perfect fragrance to suit your mood. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or create a spa-like atmosphere for a special occasion, these crystals have you covered.
Another highlight is the long-lasting fragrance they provide. Unlike some other hot tub aromatherapy products that quickly dissipate, the InSPAration crystals release a subtle yet invigorating scent that lingers throughout your hot tub session. This creates a truly immersive experience, helping you to relax and rejuvenate both body and mind.
The crystals are also easy to use, simply add them directly to your hot tub water and let them dissolve. Within minutes, you’ll notice the delightful aroma filling the air, transforming your hot tub into a luxurious oasis of tranquility. Plus, they won’t affect the water chemistry or leave behind any residue, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Additionally, these crystals are designed to be safe for use in all types of hot tubs and spas. They won’t cause any damage to your equipment or interfere with the water chemistry, giving you peace of mind while you soak away your cares.
Overall, the InSPAration 7495 HTX Relax Therapies Crystals for Spa and Hot Tubs are a must-have accessory for anyone looking to elevate their hot tub experience. With their delightful scents, long-lasting fragrance, and ease of use, these crystals make it easy to create a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere right in your own backyard.
Spa Elixir
The Spazazz Water SPZ-202 Therapy Elixir Spa & Bath Aroma Therapy is a delightful addition to any spa or hot tub experience. With its invigorating fragrance and therapeutic properties, this aroma therapy elixir enhances relaxation and rejuvenation, turning your soak into a luxurious retreat.
One of the standout features of this therapy elixir is its exquisite scent. Available in a variety of enticing fragrances, including Coconut Vanilla, Green Tea Peony, and Pomegranate Peach, there’s a scent to suit every mood and preference. Whether you’re craving something calming and soothing or uplifting and energizing, Spazazz Water has you covered.
Not only does the Therapy Elixir provide a delightful aroma, but it also offers therapeutic benefits for both the body and mind. Infused with natural essential oils and minerals, each fragrance is carefully crafted to promote relaxation, stress relief, and overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or soothe sore muscles after a workout, this elixir delivers a spa-like experience right in your own home.
Another highlight of this product is its versatility. Not only can it be used in hot tubs and spas, but it’s also suitable for baths and whirlpools, allowing you to enjoy its benefits wherever you go. Simply add a capful of the elixir to your water and let the aromatic blend envelop you in tranquility.
Additionally, the Therapy Elixir is easy to use and won’t interfere with your hot tub’s water chemistry. It’s formulated to dissolve quickly and completely, leaving behind no residue or buildup. Plus, it’s safe for all spa surfaces and won’t cause any damage or staining, giving you peace of mind while you relax.
Overall, the Spazazz Water SPZ-202 Therapy Elixir Spa & Bath Aroma Therapy is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their spa experience. With its delightful fragrances, therapeutic properties, and ease of use, it’s the perfect way to turn your ordinary soak into an extraordinary escape.
Don’t Put Epsom Salt in Hot Tub, Just in Bathtubs
We hope we have explained why putting Epsom salt in a spa is not advisable.
It will not only damage the components in your hot tub but may also cause skin irritations when mixed with water sanitizers.
Epsom salts are best used in bathtubs where you can drain them after soaking.