Morning vs Evening Soaks: When Is the Best Time to Use Your Spa?

One of the best things about owning a hot tub is that you can get in whenever you like. So is it better to soak first thing in the morning or after dark?

Each has its own advantages, depending on what you want from it. Here is how morning and evening soaks compare, and how to get the most from each.

Morning soaks: loosen up and wake up

A short soak before breakfast, while the house is still quiet, is a good way to start the day.

Benefits of soaking in the morning:

• Loosens muscles and joints that feel stiff after sleep
• Gets your circulation going, helping your body wake up
• Clears your head before work or school
• Eases morning stiffness, which many people with achy backs or joints appreciate
• Works well with a few minutes of mindfulness or breathing exercises

Tip: Add eucalyptus or citrus spa aromatherapy crystals for a more invigorating morning soak.

Evening soaks: unwind and sleep better

If your days are stressful or physically demanding, an evening soak is a good way to switch off.

Benefits of soaking in the evening:

• Releases tension built up from work, exercise or a busy day
• Helps you wind down for bed, as your body cools afterwards
• Soothes tired muscles after a day on your feet
• Gives you screen-free time before bed
• Gets the family together at the end of the day

Tip: Try lavender aromatherapy and low spa lighting for a calming soak before bed.

Morning or evening: which is better?

It depends on what you want from it:

There is no wrong time to use your spa. Pick a routine that fits your day.

Why not both?

If your schedule allows, you can use the hot tub twice a day: a short soak in the morning to loosen up and a longer one in the evening to relax.

Drink plenty of water, and don't stay in very hot water too long. For most people, 15 to 20 minutes is plenty.

Final thoughts

A morning soak sets you up for the day. An evening soak helps you switch off and sleep. Either way, regular use is what makes the difference.

The same applies if you prefer cold immersion in a Chill Tub: regular use helps you build a routine that works for you.

Morning or evening: side by side

	Morning soak	Evening soak
Suggested temperature	36°C to 37°C	37°C to 38°C
Suggested length	10 to 15 minutes	15 to 20 minutes
Feels like	A gentle start, loosens stiffness	Winding down, letting go of the day
Jets	Short burst on low	Gentle, then off at the end
Light	Daylight, birdsong	Soft spa lights, stars
Watch out for	Feeling light-headed if you have not eaten or drunk	Alcohol and late heavy meals
Timing	Before breakfast or after a short walk	About 1 to 2 hours before bed

A good rule for both: 15 to 20 minutes is enough for most adults. Longer soaks raise the risk of overheating and dehydration.

A morning routine

1. Drink a glass of water.
2. Lift the cover and do a quick test strip once or twice a week.
3. Soak for 10 to 15 minutes with jets on low for part of it.
4. Get out slowly, dry off and get dressed in the warm.

An evening routine

1. Eat at least an hour before.
2. Lights low, phone left indoors.
3. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes at 37°C to 38°C.
4. Out, dressing gown on, cover back on.
5. Head to bed within a couple of hours. The NHS Every Mind Matters sleep tips suggest a regular wind-down routine.

Running costs and timing

When you soak makes little difference to running costs if you keep the cover on and the temperature steady. Heating 700 litres of water takes about 0.81 kWh per °C, roughly 21p at 26.32p per kWh. What costs more is letting the water cool and reheating it each day, or leaving the cover off.

Safety for both

• Children under 12 at 36°C or below.
• You shouldn't use a hot tub or sauna while pregnant.
• If you have a heart or blood pressure condition, check with your GP first.

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