What's the perfect temperature for your hot tub? Find out here!

You know the feeling. You're finally in your hot tub, ready to escape the everyday. But then: the water is so hot you wonder if you're cooking soup or yourself. Or so lukewarm it feels more like a failed Dutch summer. Time to talk about the perfect temperature for your hot tub. It might seem like a minor detail, but the right temperature makes the difference between a brief "ouch, that's hot" moment and hours of relaxing soaking. And let's be honest: if you're investing in a beautiful wooden hot tub from Happy Timber , you want to get it right. But what is the perfect temperature? And how do you maintain it? We'll guide you through it, in plain language, without any fuss.

What is the ideal temperature for a hot tub?

Most people find 37 to 39 degrees Celsius most comfortable. This is close to your body temperature, creating a pleasant balance between warmth and relaxation. Go above 40 degrees Celsius? You'll quickly notice that your relaxation gives way to "I need to cool down." Below 36 degrees Celsius? That luxurious feeling quickly disappears. Here's a summary:

• 35–36°C: Cool but still comfortable, ideal in warm weather.
• 37–38°C: Perfect balance for most people.
• 39–40°C: Extra warm, suitable for short sessions.
• >40°C: Not recommended for extended periods.

Tip: Also view our hot tub collection and choose the model that best suits your desired operating temperature.

Depending on the season: this is how you adjust the temperature

In summer, a lower temperature is often more comfortable. 36°C quickly feels warm enough. In winter, however, when it's cold outside, 38 to 39°C is often perfect. And let's be honest, there's nothing more relaxing than soaking in a warm hot tub while it's snowing outside, right?

Why the season makes a difference

The outside temperature affects how warm the water feels to you. In summer, you might not be able to tolerate much heat, but in winter, the appeal of a cozy, warm hot tub is immense. A lower temperature feels a little cooler, even though it's cold outside. That warm water feels like a welcome embrace after a long winter walk.

What if the water is too hot?

Yes, it happens. Sometimes you forget about the wood stove for just a little too long. What now?

• Add some cold water: This sounds simpler than it looks, but it works. Cold water can quickly stabilize the temperature.
• Remove the lid: Wait 10–15 minutes. This helps the temperature drop.
• Stir the water: This ensures that the cold is evenly distributed throughout the water.

Maintaining the temperature: here's how

Keeping it warm is just as important as heating it up. Nobody wants to stoke the fire every hour. Our tips:

• Use a well-insulated lid: This prevents heat from escaping, so your hot tub stays warm for longer.
• Heat the fire in time: Don't wait until it's too late. Regularly heating the fire keeps the water nice and warm.
• Place the hot tub in a sheltered spot out of the wind: This prevents the temperature from dropping quickly due to the cold outside.

Did you know that our wooden hot tubs come standard with a matching dome lid? This keeps the water hotter longer and saves wood.

How long can you stay in a hot tub at different temperatures?

It's tempting to sit for hours, but your body doesn't always appreciate that. So here's a handy overview:

• 35–36°C : Up to 45 minutes.
• 37–38°C: 20–30 minutes is comfortable.
• 39–40°C: Maximum 15–20 minutes continuously.

Tip: Need to cool off in between? A cold drink within reach or a fresh towel nearby works wonders.

Hot tub temperature and health: what should you pay attention to?

Are you pregnant, have heart problems, or are you taking medication? Then it's wise to take it easy and always consult your doctor. Water that's too hot can be taxing on your circulation. Fortunately, this doesn't mean you can't use a hot tub—it's all about the right temperature and duration.

Would you like personalized advice about your situation? Feel free to contact us; we're happy to discuss your needs.

Your perfect hot tub starts at Happy Timber

At Happy Timber, we craft hot tubs with care, craftsmanship, and an eye for comfort. Whether you're looking for a compact model for two or a spacious hot tub for the whole family, we're happy to help you find a model that meets your needs, including everything you need to reach and maintain the perfect temperature.

Looking for inspiration? Browse our complete hot tub collection now. Ready for the next step? Request a free quote and discover what we can do for you.

At Happy Timber, you can also build your own hot tub. Create your own hot tub now via this link .

FAQ: The perfect temperature for your hot tub

What is the ideal temperature for my hot tub?

Most people find a temperature between 37°C and 39°C (98.6°F and 102.4°F) most comfortable. This provides a pleasant balance between relaxation and comfort. Temperatures above 40°C (104°F) can be too intense for longer sessions.

How can I adjust the temperature of my hot tub?

You can adjust the temperature by adjusting the wood stove or temporarily removing the lid to allow heat to escape. Also, add cold water if it's too hot.

How long can I safely stay in my hot tub?

This depends on the temperature. At 37–38°C, 20 to 30 minutes is ideal. At higher temperatures, it's better to enjoy the hot tub for a shorter period.

Can I use my hot tub in winter?

Yes, in winter you can use your hot tub at a higher temperature for added comfort. The contrast between the cold air and the warm water is wonderful.

How can I keep the temperature of my hot tub constant?

Use a well-insulated lid to retain heat. Reheat the fire in advance and place the hot tub in a sheltered spot to prevent temperature loss due to wind.