What to Wear in a Hot Tub: What’s Comfortable, Safe, and Spa-Friendly?
If you're preparing for your first soak, you might be wondering: What exactly should I wear in a hot tub? It’s a good question—and one that has more to it than you might think. You want something that’s comfortable, hygienic, and won’t damage either your swimwear or your hot tub.
Let’s start with a quick answer:
Most people wear a well-rinsed swimsuit in a hot tub—ideally one that’s free of detergents, lotions, or fabric softeners. Some choose to wear older swimwear or dedicated “hot tub” clothing, while others may choose to soak nude in a private setting. Whatever you choose, comfort and cleanliness are key.
In this Hydropool blog, we’ll answer:
- Can you wear regular swimwear in a hot tub?
- Should you have a separate suit just for hot tub use?
- What fabrics are best for hot tubs?
- Is it okay to wear a t-shirt or cover-up?
- Can you soak in the nude?
- What should kids wear in a hot tub?
- What NOT to wear in a hot tub?
Can You Wear Regular Swimwear in a Hot Tub?
Yes—but be mindful of detergents and lotions. Most store-bought swimwear is safe to wear in a hot tub, provided you’ve rinsed it thoroughly beforehand. Laundry detergents, sunscreen, or body lotions can react with hot tub chemicals and cause foaming or imbalance.
Quick tips:
- Rinse your swimsuit thoroughly in clean water before every use.
- Avoid wearing freshly laundered suits (detergent residue is sneaky).
- Skip suits treated with fabric softeners—they leave oily residues behind.
Should You Have a Dedicated Hot Tub Suit?
It’s a great idea. Having a suit specifically for the hot tub helps you avoid chemical build-up from detergents and extends the life of both your spa water and your swimwear.
Why it helps:
- Reduces chemical interference in water
- Extends swimwear life
- Keeps the water clearer longer (which means less maintenance for you!)
What Fabrics Are Best for Hot Tubs?
Stick with suits made from:
- Polyester or Nylon: Both are durable and resistant to chlorine.
- Spandex blends: Comfortable, but may break down faster in warm, chlorinated water.
Avoid:
- Cotton: It absorbs water, takes forever to dry, and breaks down quickly in hot water.
- Heavily embellished or padded suits: Extra features tend to degrade quickly in warm, treated water.
Is It Okay to Wear a T-Shirt or Cover-Up in the Hot Tub?
If you're self-conscious or want extra coverage, wearing a light t-shirt or cover-up is fine—just make sure it’s clean and made of synthetic materials. Cotton t-shirts can clog your filters and release lint into the water.
Better choices:
- Synthetic rash guards
- Swim shirts made for water use
- Lightweight polyester blends
Can You Soak in the Nude?
Absolutely—if you're in a private setting and you’re comfortable with it. Just make sure you shower before entering to keep the water clean.
Some hot tub owners prefer to go without swimwear in private spas to:
- Avoid any chemical damage to clothing
- Maximize comfort
- Keep filters and water cleaner
Just be mindful of local bylaws and the comfort of any other bathers.
What Should Kids Wear in a Hot Tub?
Young children should always wear a properly fitted swimsuit or swim diaper. Even if your child is potty trained, a snug-fitting suit adds peace of mind.
Safety first:
- Use swim diapers for kids under 3
- Make sure children’s suits are well rinsed too
- Never allow kids in hot tubs alone or for too long—limit to 5–10 minutes at a time at 98°F (37°C)
For more details on child safety in spas, visit the Hydropool Learning Centre.
What Should You Avoid Wearing in a Hot Tub?
To keep your hot tub in top shape, avoid:
- Street clothes or gym gear
- Cotton items that shed lint
- Underwear (the fabrics aren’t spa-friendly)
- Lotions, oils, or heavily scented products on your skin
- Metal accessories or jewellery
What to Wear in a Hot Tub: Still Wondering What’s Best?
Choosing what to wear in a hot tub comes down to comfort, hygiene, and protecting your spa. Go with clean, synthetic swimwear that hasn’t been treated with detergents or lotions. Having a dedicated hot tub suit can help keep things simple. And if it’s just you and the stars? Go ahead and skip the suit—just make sure your spa water is clean and well-maintained.
Still have questions? Reach out to your local Hydropool retailer here: Find a Retailer
