Organic and inorganic materials are introduced every time a person enters a hot tub. Signs at public pools are trying to prevent this by asking users to shower before entering. The materials add to the TDS (total dissolved solids). To learn about TDS, please read my last post, “hot tub drain and refill”.
Examples of organic materials are sweat, urine, and fecal matter. The human body has a very small amount of fecal matter that can release into the water—yuck! Examples of inorganic materials include lotions, perfume, bug spray, sunscreen, hair conditioner, deodorant, etc. Have you ever experienced a rainbow chemical effect on the surface of the water? It’s most likely caused by sunscreen or perfume. Organic and inorganic materials are not inherently harmful to the human body. However, they can become harmful if the hot tub water is not properly treated and sanitized. For instance, the ammonia from urine will combat and lessen the effectiveness of the sanitizer. If fecal matter is introduced and the water has little to no sanitizer, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
In a nutshell, it’s a good idea to rinse off in the shower before entering your hot tub. Always use the toilet before a good hot tub soak. And be sure to test and treat your hot tub water to ensure there is a healthy level of sanitizer.