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6 Hot Tub Party Tips
It's a good excuse on its own to have people over.
It's also a popular focal point for gatherings because it gives people something to do besides sit or stand and chat.
When planning a party, be sure to follow these six tips to help make it a success.
1.
Keeping it Clean One of the most important elements of having a hot tub party is cleaning it beforehand.
It's best to drain, clean and refill your spa.
Use stain remover on stubborn spots and sanitize the basin.
Replace or clean your hot tub filters when you change the water.
It's also important to use the proper hot tub chemicals for the right balance.
2.
Be Festive Liven things up with music, food, and other forms of entertainment.
Choose a theme.
Decorate with party lights, streamers and pennants.
Provide light hors d'oeuvres or a buffet style menu.
If you choose to serve adult beverages, be sure to provide some non-alcoholic choices as well.
Fun floatables in the spa, such as rubber ducks, are a solid conversation piece.
3.
Layout Be sure that there is a clear path in and out of the hot tub for your guests.
You may want to put down slip-resistant mats on any areas that might get wet with a lot of traffic.
Avoid running any electrical cords near the water to connect the music, outdoor TV or lighting.
Place refreshment tables away from the water to discourage guests from bringing food and drinks into the spa.
A towel rack or two will prevent people from draping wet towels on your deck chairs.
A table near the spa is a helpful place for guests to put their cell phones, watches and other water-sensitive items.
Any overhead decorations shouldn't be hung directly over the hot tub.
4.
Ground Rules If anyone coming isn't familiar with your house rules for the spa, be sure to post a list in a place that's easy to see.
Keep it short and sweet, putting the most important items at the top.
5.
Temperatures Set the water temperature at 104 degrees F or below.
If you think there will be a lot of guests going in and out of the unit during the party, you may want to lower the temperature to about 100 degrees F instead.
If you entertain often and plan to have younger guests present, such as teens, you may want to invest in a thermostat lock or discourage people from changing the temperature on their own by adding this to your list of house rules.
6.
Provide Encouragement For guests who've never been to a hot tub party before, it can be a little awkward and intimidating.
If you don't see people getting into the hot tub on their own, be sure to invite them to take a dip.
You can also start the fun by getting in yourself as an icebreaker.
Some guests may prefer to sit on the sidelines and watch other people to see what it's all about before venturing in themselves.
A gentle suggestion may be all they need to give it a try.