How to Maintain a Hygienic Spa

Consumers go to spas for the mental and physical health benefits, don’t send them home with bacteria and viruses.

Spas are supposed to be a place to relax and unwind. Nobody goes in expecting to expose themselves to potential infections and illnesses. It’s essential that spas maintain the highest levels of hygiene and cleanliness to ensure the safety and well-being of their customers.

One common spa commodity that people assume is safe, for example, that might not be all it’s cracked up to be: hot tubs. They’re calming and can even have physical health benefits. But under the surface, there are things no one wants to think of.

Whatever is on someone’s skin ends up in that tub, and a third of people admit they don’t shower before entering a pool. Most people have about 100mg of feces on them before entering and yes, that enters the water. Any sweat on a person’s body also sheds and 1 in 5 people have admitted to peeing in a pool, a report that researchers is lower than the reality of the problem.

This is just one instance of how spa commodities can pose health dangers to their users.

Any tools used in a spa, particularly those touched by a variety of clients, can harbor bacteria. That’s why it’s so important to make sure every tool and amenity is properly taken care of. Here are a few ways to do that.

Regular cleaning and disinfection

One of the most important hygiene practices for spas is regular cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces and equipment. This includes treatment rooms, massage tables, saunas, steam rooms, showers, etc. Cleaning should be done with soap and water, and disinfection should be done using EPA-registered disinfectants that are effective against viruses and bacteria.

Cleanliness should go beyond spa-specific items. Commonly touched areas like doorknobs, light switches, and faucets, can also harbor bacteria. These areas should be cleaned and disinfected several times a day, ideally after each client.

Proper hand-washing

Hand hygiene is critical in maintaining the cleanliness of every spa. Each staff member should wash their hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer should also be made available so clients can disinfect their hands before and after getting a treatment or using an amenity.

Personal protective equipment

The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is also essential in maintaining hygiene in a spa. All staff should wear masks and gloves when providing treatments, and disposable aprons should be worn when necessary. Clients should also be offered masks to wear during treatments.

Air-borne germs and viruses didn’t go away with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regular linen cleaning

Clean linens and towels are an important aspect of spa hygiene. All linens should be washed in hot water with detergent and dried on high heat. If possible, use disposable sheets and towels to reduce any risks. Robes and other clothing should also be laundered regularly.

Regular staff training

Finally, regular staff training is essential to ensure that all of the above hygiene practices are followed. Training should be ongoing and consistent to make sure that staff remembers the proper practices.

In addition to the above practices, spas can also implement additional measures to maintain proper hygiene. These may include the use of air purifiers, UV sterilizers, and other technologies to reduce the risk of airborne transmission of viruses and bacteria.