Hot tub owners have been issued a serious health warning over dangerous bacteria that could be swimming around in the water - and even human faeces.
Health experts have said that bacteria thrive in the warm water bubbling in the spa experience, and can cause potential health hazards. The bacteria can give people rashes, infections, diarrhoea and even herpes.
QS Supplies have shared what germs could be lurking in your hot tub, and the reasons why you should be getting it cleaned on the regular.
The experts have said that five people sitting in a hot tub will contribute to around a tablespoon of faeces to the water - due to residue on the skin.
Shaf Member, purchase director, said: "Often private hot tubs are worse than those in a gym or public pool.
"After all, it is up to the cleaner to keep on top of the cleanliness levels. Sadly, people can get lazy when it comes to their own hot tub as they think family and friends won't mind.
"This really doesn't matter, as you will never know if another person has a virus or is shredding pathogens."
Read on below for seven secret hot tub concerns, and how you can keep your spa experience as hygienic as possible.
Germs
The list of bacteria hiding inside a hot tub is extensive, but some can be harmless.
Things like sweat and oil won't cause issues, but there are a surprising amount of people who carry pathogens and germs that can cause disease.
And a hot tub is the perfect temperature and setting for them to thrive and grow.
For example, the herpes virus can survive in a hot tub for approximately four hours.
Hot Tub Folliculitis
Hot Tub Folliculitis, also known as the Hot Tub Rash, is caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas Aeruginosa - which thrives in warm, bubbly water.
The rash is extremely common, and looks like chicken pox. It is very uncomfortable and hard to treat - and can even cause scarring for life.
Staph Bacteria
Approximately 50 per cent of the population carries a skin-infecting bacteria on their skin - called Staphylococcus aureus.
If someone with a cut, ingrown hair or any open wound gets in a hot tub, they can easily contract a staph infection.
Faeces
Five people in a hot tub will contribute to approximately a tablespoon of human faeces to the water, due to residue on the skin.
The average bather has around a tenth of a gram of faeces in their gluteal fold - more commonly known as the buttocks.
This means that five people's bums can equate to a whole tablespoon of human waste into the spa experience.
If the hot tub is not cleaned regularly, faecal matter can cause problems due to build-up.
Diarrhoea Pathogens
People should be waiting at least two weeks before entering a hot tub, after contracting a diarrhoea or gastro disease - but most don't
If you are unsure who has been soaking in the tub, then keep your head above the water - as swallowing water could make you sick.
Crypto
A parasite called cryptosporidium causes severe diarrhoea that can last for weeks - and there is no cure or anti-biotics for it
The parasite is also chlorine-tolerant so it can withstand the chemicals in a hot tub.
Legionnaires
This infection isn't as common as the others, but it is still a concern.
Legionella will thrive in warm water that isn't clean. All it takes is breathing in the mist from a contaminated hot tub.
How do I clean my hot tub?
Shaf Member, Purchase Director at QS Supplies, said: "Know your body - If you have been ill recently, don't go in the hot tub. If you have a cut, even minor, please avoid it.
"It's all about just being vigilant and taking a moment before jumping in to think ‘ is this really wise?’ And whatever you do, don't forget to shower and rinse off any germs and bacteria from the day before you get in.
"It isn't relatively difficult to keep your hot tub clean, it just takes dedication and time. Be sure to inspect your tub a couple of times a week to prevent any buildup, and test your levels before every use.
"Remember that the water needs draining and replacing frequently too - which is all dependent on the quality of your filter system.
"After every use, clean using a damp cloth and sanitiser and check its pH levels. Clean the filters weekly and check the pH levels and santise again.
"Shock dosing weekly is also highly recommended. Quarterly (or after heavy use) clean your pipes, drain and refill and give a deep interior clean - and don't forget about regular servicing too!"
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our newsletter here.
