Why You Should Think Twice Before Using Epsom Salt In Your Hot Tub

There are so many uses of Epsom salt. It's a time-honored remedy that has long been cherished for its therapeutic properties when added to a warm bath. Composed of magnesium and sulfate, Epsom salt is renowned for its ability to alleviate muscle soreness, reduce stress, and promote a sense of relaxation. Many people swear by the soothing effects it brings to their at-home spa experiences, making it a popular addition to bathtime routines. However, despite its beneficial effects, Epsom salt is not something you should be using in your hot tub because doing so can lead to a chemical imbalance in the water.

In addition, Epsom salt can damage the internal components of the pump and filters, leading to costly repairs. While it might seem like a harmless addition, as we get to know the world of hot tubs, it becomes evident that not all is as straightforward as it seems with Epsom salt.

Despite the undeniable attraction of adding Epsom salt to bathwater, it's crucial to think twice before tossing it into your hot tub. Hot tubs operate on a delicate balance of water chemistry (including its pH level and alkalinity), and introducing Epsom salt can disrupt this equilibrium, leading to potential hygiene concerns due to insufficient sanitization and skin irritation. According to O-Care, Epsom salt combined with brominated or chlorinated water can cause skin dryness, irritation, and rashes.

Another concern is that adding the required amount of Epsom salts in a hot tub to reap its therapeutic benefits can also significantly raise the level of total dissolved solids (TDS), which, in turn, can promote scale buildup. The primary concern lies in the potential for magnesium and sulfate to interfere with your hot tub's intricate system. These compounds can cause corrosion in the metal components, damage the spa's shell, and even compromise the efficiency of the heating element. Furthermore, the accumulation of these minerals over time can lead to cloudy water and challenging water maintenance. In essence, while Epsom salt may work wonders in your bathtub, its integration into the hot tub environment poses a set of challenges that outweigh its perceived benefits.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to Epsom salt that offer the same soothing effects without jeopardizing your hot tub's longevity. Consider incorporating specifically formulated hot tub salts or aromatherapy crystals, designed to dissolve easily and maintain the chemical balance essential for optimal hot tub performance.

Examples of hot tub salts formulated to complement your spa's water chemistry include products like Hot Tub Spa Salt (5lbs. at $19.99) available on Amazon and FreshWater Spa Salt (10lbs x 2 at $59.98) which you can purchase at My Hot Spring. Both are compatible with chlorine-based saltwater systems. Aromatherapy crystals like Spazazz Botanicals (17oz at $16.95) at Hot Tub Warehouse, InSPAration 7491 HTX Elevate Therapies Crystals (19oz at $16.95) at Amazon, and Relax Lavender Palmarosa Bath Crystals (22oz at $17.99) of Relax Spa & Bath come in a variety of scents, each tailored to induce relaxation and stress relief. 

These crystals typically contain a blend of soothing essential oils and minerals, elevating your hot tub experience with delightful fragrances and skin-nourishing elements. In selecting products, opt for reputable brands, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure compatibility with your hot tub system. By choosing these hot tub-compatible alternatives, you can enjoy the bliss of a therapeutic soak without compromising the health of your hot tub.