Step Up Your Hot Tub Game This Winter

Few things beat a nice soak in hot water with jets massaging your back, melting away your cares. Americans nationwide agree—according to the Center for Disease Control, there are more than 7.3 million hot tubs in operation in the U.S. Whether you’re planning a party with a few friends or a one-on-one dip with the object of your desire, setting the stage for a feel-good evening around the hot tub takes a little effort. For inspiration to use your hot tub as the centerpiece of an intimate outdoor atmosphere, here are some ideas!

Keep it Clean

Clean your hot tub and everything around it thoroughly before your lady friend arrives. It’s sure to turn her on once she steps in, but your hot tub is just as inviting to bacteria, viruses and fungi. According to Medline Plus, control the chlorine and acid levels in your hot tub water to limit the chances of contracting a folliculitis caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Photo by ex_magician via Flickr

Drain and refill your tub regularly to ensure the water is fresh. Rinse the filters thoroughly, or if they are older, replace them. Test your water and add spa treatments according to your manufacturer’s instructions. Chemicals from HotTubWorks.com will balance the pH levels of your water and provide the cleanest venue for your rendezvous.

Create Ambience

An intimate moment can only be enhanced by music. If your hot tub area is not equipped with a sound system, set a Bluetooth boom-box or iPod dock at a safe distance from the water and keep pre-selected mood-enhancing tunes playing. Keep the volume low enough that you can hear the music, but still be able to hold a conversation with your partner.

Pour it on the Rocks

Enhance the relaxing atmosphere with a couple adult beverages, but note that it’s best not to take these into the hot tub. The U.S. Product Safety Commission warns that the risk of drowning is significantly increased when you mix drinking and hot-tubbing. Make specialty drinks for your guests on the patio or deck, and have a cooler filled with chilled non-alcoholic beverages such as lemonade or iced tea near the hot tub.

Photo by FXR via Wikimedia Commons

Light Her Fire

Set the scene around your hot tub by placing candles or tiki torches at a safe distance. Flame-lit torches lend a softer light and atmosphere than electric lighting, and are easy to keep away from the area around your hot tub. Plus, they add a tropical flair that will lend the feeling of being on a remote island paradise.

Provide Privacy

In order to peel down to a skimpy bikini, privacy is a must. If you don’t have a privacy enclosure around your hot tub, create your own. Folding screens are available at most big-box retailers, and can serve double-duty as a changing area. For a more exotic atmosphere, surround your hot tub with large potted plants such as banana plants and ferns.