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How-To Guide: Cold Plunge Maintenance and Sanitization

Updated: 1 day ago

Cold plunges have been gaining massive popularity recently, due to their health benefits, like accelerating recovery, boosting immunity, and improving mood. But some cold plungers don’t realize that their cold plunges can actually put their health at risk, if they aren’t maintained properly! Specifically, your cold plunge needs to have proper cleaning and sanitization protocol, to avoid harmful bacteria. That's why we've created this comprehensive How-To Guide: Cold Plunge Maintenance and Sanitization to help you keep you and your cold plunge clean, sanitary, and in optimal condition for years to come.

Preventative Cold Plunge Maintenance: The First Line of Defense


  • Shower First: Users should always shower before entering the cold plunge to minimize the introduction of body oils, lotions, and other contaminants entering the water. This is usually the largest contributor to lower water quality, so taking this one simple step could cut your maintenance in half, or even more!

  • Cover Up: When not in use, cover your cold plunge to keep out debris. Large debris will need to be filtered, but can also break down into smaller debris that is harder to remove.

Cold Plunge Filtering


  • With a Chiller: If your cold plunge includes a chiller system, you'll probably have a built-in filter to help remove debris and larger particles from the water. This keeps your plunge water free of bugs, leaves, and other debris. Remember to check and clean the filter regularly (based on your usage frequency) or replace it as recommended by the manufacturer. Think of it like changing the air filter in your home – a small task that makes a big difference. This is a great example of a high-quality chiller, with a built in filter.

  • Without a Chiller: If you've opted for a cold plunge without a chiller, you'll need to be a bit more hands-on with filtration. Regularly use a fine-mesh strainer or a dedicated cold plunge filter to remove any visible debris and/or change the water more frequently, as you notice debris building up and breaking down. It’s also helpful to purchase a cold plunge with materials that are conducive to maintaining a clean environment, like this coated metal cold plunge

Metal Cold Plunge for Gym


Cold Plunge Sanitization: Keeping Water Quality Safe and Clean


Sanitizing your cold plunge is essential for eliminating harmful bacteria and other microorganisms that can thrive in water. While there are some automated methods that can help with this, like UV and ozone treatment, if used, they should always be done in addition to chemical sanitization of your cold plunge.


First, you’ll want to regularly test your cold plunge water, based on your frequency of usage. A simple and cost-effective method of doing so is with cold plunge water test strips.


When your test indicates it’s time to add chemicals, we recommend using chlorine granules specifically designed for plunges/pools/spas. Chlorine pucks can be too large for the relatively small body of water in a cold plunge, so granules allow for more accurate alignment with the manufacturer's instructions for the correct dosage and application.


If you prefer a gentler option, bromine tablets are a great alternative, especially for cold water.


Also, periodically using a non-chlorine shock treatment will also help oxidize contaminants and keep your water sparkling.

Cold Plunge Maintenance & Sanitization

pH Balance: The Key to Comfort


Proper pH balance is crucial for several reasons. It ensures water clarity, maximizes the effectiveness of your sanitizer, and prevents skin and eye irritation. So to keep your water crystal clear, you’ll want to use the same cold plunge test strips mentioned earlier to determine the pH balance of your water.


The Ideal pH range that you should aim for a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8.

If adjustments are needed, use cold plunge friendly pH Up or pH Down chemicals, following the manufacturer's recommended amounts based on the size of your cold plunge.


Changing Cold Plunge Water: Refresh and Renew


Even with all preventative measures, testing, sanitization and filtering, your cold plunge’s water will still need to be changed from time to time. The exact frequency of this depending on how much you use the plunge, and how closely the maintenance standards are followed. With that said, here is a rough guide:

  • Light Use (1-2 times per week): Change the water approximately every 4 - 12 weeks.

  • Moderate Use (3-4 times per week): Aim for a water change approximately 1 - 4 weeks.

  • Heavy Use (daily or multiple users): Refresh your water approximately every 1-7 days.


We like to set a standard of always changing the water every 40-50 uses, no matter how clean the water seems.


If you bought a Canuck Cold Plunge, draining and refilling your cold plunge is a breeze. Simply use one of the outlets/fittings, with or without a hose or pump attachment, and drain the water to a safe location. If you do not have this option, a transfer pump is also a great option and wet vacs are great for getting any last bits of water that may remain.


To clean your cold plunge, use a mild soap and water solution and gentle scrubber, then rinse thoroughly, and refill with fresh water - thats it!


If you notice any stains or scale buildup, use a specialized stain and scale remover formulated for cold plunges. Always follow the product instructions for safe and effective use.


Conclusion - How-To Guide: Cold Plunge Maintenance and Sanitization


By following these simple cleaning and maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your cold plunge remains a refreshing and revitalizing part of your wellness routine for years to come.

 cold plunge sanitization bundle

To make this process even easier, you may want to consider a cold plunge sanitization bundle, like this.


Remember, unlike some cold tubs that rely on potentially dangerous ozone generators, Canuck Cold Plunges utilize the safe and proven methods of keeping your cold plunge clean, clear and safe, which makes maintenance easy and worry-free.

Have questions? You can contact cold plunge experts, here.




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