How to Keep Cold Plunge Water Clean Even if You Use It Regularly

You wouldn’t spend weeks without having a shower, right? Well, maybe you do, but the point is you shouldn’t! Cold plunges and the water in it must also be cleaned. Not as regularly as us humans, but it’s the same concept.

Follow me as I explain how I clean my ice plunge.

What is a Cold Plunge?

A cold plunge involves dunking oneself into a body of water, typically an ice bath or a cold plunge tub. Both look different but have the same outcome. Why? Because they are polar bears (joke)

A cold plunge has various benefits for the body, mind, and soul. This practice has become part of my daily routine and is here to stay.

So, Whether in a specialized tub, a converted chest freezer, or any container capable of holding cold water, the cold plunge is a thrilling challenge that refreshes and rejuvenates.

Reasons You Need to Know How to Keep Your Cold Plunge Water Clean

Cleanliness is essential, especially when discussing water you plan to jump into regularly; why?

  • Health and Hygiene: Stagnant water can collect unwanted bacteria, which you do not want to include in your wellness routine. Well, I can only speak for myself here, but I hope you are the same.
  • Comfort and Enjoyment: Yes, the plunges may be daunting at 7 a.m., but in my experience, I would much rather peer into a body of crystal clear water than a cloudy green-looking puddle. Unfortunately, I have tried both, and the former is the best option, trust me.
  • Equipment Longevity: Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of your cold plunge tub, as building up in dirt can increase wear and tear. If not regularly cleaned, the whole can become stained and disgusting, which is not ideal!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Keep Your Cold Plunge Water Clean

Getting started with maintaining your cold plunge water’s cleanliness is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure you are doing the right thing:

Step 1: Regular Cleaning

  • Drain and Clean: After every few uses, drain the tub and scrub it down with a soft brush and some washing-up liquid. I have always hated doing this task, but I tank myself after!
  • Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the tub with clean water to remove any residue from the washing-up liquid; this saves it from resurfacing when you fill it again.

Step 2: Pre-Plunge Hygiene

  • Shower Before: you might think there is no need to shower as you are jumping into the water, but this water is stagnant and will sit there for 2/3 weeks. Clean yourself to keep it clean!
  • Wear flip-flops: I always wear flip-flops when jumping in and out of the tub. If not, pieces of dirt (if outside) can get stuck to the bottom of your feet, and when you jump back in, you bring that with you!

Step 3: Water Filtration and Treatment System

  • Install a Filtration System: A filtration system is always my crucial ingredient, ensuring regular cleaning and hygiene standards are upheld. Some come with systems, and some have added ones. Check out here for one that suits you!
  • Water Treatment: Use safe, non-toxic water sanitizers to kill bacteria and maintain the water’s chemical balance. This is a good choice if you do not have time to clean regularly.

Key Considerations

Keeping your cold plunge water crystal is excellent, but consider the below; you will thank me later:

  • Consistency is Key: It’s not enough to do it once! This needs to be done continually; it’s not enough to do it every three months. I do it every three weeks, and this suffices for me. Don’t be lazy; get it done!
  • Mind the Chemicals: Be cautious with water treatments; opt for safe, non-toxic options that won’t irritate your skin or pose health risks.
  • Cover Your Tub: Most tubs come with covers, so if you don’t have one, definitely get one! Otherwise, unwanted creatures will freeze at the bottom of the tub.

Taking it to the Next Level

We all want to get to the next level in life, so why not start with your ice plunge;

  • Upgrade Your Filtration System: Some plunges come with no filtration system or just a generic one. You can always upgrade to a better-spec system, taking your hygiene to the next level.
  • Monitor Water Quality: Regularly test your water for pH and cleanliness to address any issues preemptively. This is professional-level cleanliness. Get to it!

Alternatives to Traditional Cold Plunge Maintenance

If the traditional cleaning methods seem too daunting, here are some alternatives:

  • Disposable Liners: Some cold plunge models allow for disposable liners, simplifying cleanup.
  • Professional Cleaning Services: Hiring a professional to do all the dirty work for you is also an option. Depends on what you’re into!

My cleanliness conclusion

I look at it this way: If the water is green coming out of my tap, I’m calling a plumber. This sense of urgency should translate into the body of water you’re going to jump into! These weird colours can hold a variety of bacteria you don’t need.

If you’re looking to get the maximum benefits out of your cold plunging experience, you need to use it regularly, meaning it needs always to be somewhat clear!

So, dive in, stay chill and remember: the only murky thing in your life should be the mystery of why you didn’t start plunging sooner!